Just like this car but one generation newer, I drove a 991.1 base carrera pdk. I being just the "base 911" didn't expect it to be so transcendent. It was the first 911 I drove after learning to drive properly. I have driven many front engined sports cars, including miatas, multiple generations of M3s and Corvettes, but nothing even comes close to the 991.1. Intresting how the older 997 base has a larger engine. The 991 base 3.4 engine needs to be revved a lot to get the real power which suited the pdk well.
I love the looks of 997.1 but that deeply flawed engine is horrible and IMS is small issue, whole oiling system and heat management is wrong, they had to almost scrap it all. For instance on left trailbraking engine oil us trapped and cannot be scavenged. If you can get x51 996/997 then it's semi passable engine.
Yep! My 6MT V6 Mustang puts a big ass smile on my face every time i drive i :D surprisingly good sound, plenty of torque for back road driving and more than enough power to pass someone quickly. And good fuel mileage too!
The first gen Mazda6s (3.0L V6) has Variable Valve Timing. It’s somewhat similar to a S2000 with not much torque down low so you really need to rev it out but it’s a blast to rev it out imo and with independent rear suspension it’s not to bad in the twisties for a fwd sedan.
Lol I love both of your channels 🧡. Anyways a Porsche is a Porsche for me which means great design now matter what just depends on how much you wanna spend on maintenance.
Just throw a $10,000 turbo kit on the 3.8 and make 550whp on tap, no need to spend 150k+ when 55k (2012 911 Carrera S)+10k(Turbo)+10k(shocks, wing) would make an ultimate track car.
I have a black-on-black .2 base model, 6-speed manual, and I love it. Virtually no one puts out videos on the base trim cars, so thank you. It's a superb sports car, loads of speed and nimble. And to me, the black cluster looks both serious and beautiful. So easy to get caught up with upgrades. I drove an S2000 for twelve years before pulling the trigger on the 911, and I feel the base was upgrade enough.
Over the past 40 years, I’ve owned a 1977 924, 1986 944, 2016 Cayman, now a 2018 911 Carrera........all base models, all manuals. For some perspective, I raced motorcycles for fifteen years and tracked Porsches for eight years. I can tell you this.........as an everyday driver (which all of mine have been), the base model Porsche is the best. Most people just have to have the “S” and, as nice as it is, it’s really overkill for daily use. Nice video.
@@carltoncotter2614 the difference is Porsche cars always have that special feel compared to the rest. Like it was mentioned in this video all other “sports cars” even M and AMG for example look like their base models with a bigger engine and a badge. You know a Porsche is a true sports car when you get into it.
Great video. I intentionally purchased a 997.1 C2 earlier this year after test driving 996 C4S, 997.1 C4S and a 997.2 C2S. There's something very charming and pure about a base Carrera that gets diluted by the more powerful engines, PASMs, AWD and sport modes in the higher trim 911s.
I'm glad you made this video. I've always advocated for buying a base level car for cheap rather than spending 3-4x more on the performance version. You get 85% of the same car but for 30% of the price!
The 3.2 is often overshadowed by IMS woes, but conversely it doesn't suffer from bore scoring like the 3.4 and I feel like it has a little more gnarl to the sound, which when you open it up sounds like an older air cooled car a bit.
Well done...great review. I have owned three 997's (one "S") and was happy to hear the "S" hype squelched....it is too often overstated. Any 911 is an awesome car compared to most other cars out there for the money.
Honestly after getting a good headset, I've gotta say that I really appreciate the use of binaural audio. I didn't realize how much it contributes to the viewing experience.
One of best videos, pure facts, sound and no nonsense. You know how to drive 911, the engine enjoyed rewing over 4K when accelerating. I subscribe right away.
Your opinion on the “base” Carrera is spot on. Plenty of HP and much easier to afford. No way I can tell the difference unless tracking or racing. More important than buying the “S” is finding a 911 with manual transmission, sport exhaust. 👌🏽
The 997 and 987 are honestly the best sports cars you can buy today. A complete analog driving experience that no new car and match and they're not old enough to feel like vintage relics that you can't drive hard. Only thing that base Carerra needs is an exhaust (and possibly a nice short throw shifter to tighten up the gate just a touch )
I have the 997.1 with the cold air intake kit installed. The engine has this metallic howl that’s so addicting. Base model Porsche’s are already excellent no need to go for the higher models unless you’re trying to go 200mph. This car is a sub 5 second 0 to 60 car. 325hp for around 3,000lb. It’s not slow. It’s actually faster 0 to 60 with a Tiptronic. Also if you’re trying to buy a used Porsche get the black color. Black doesn’t show age as much.
Great review! I’m going to pull the trigger on a 997.1/2 next year, and have been watching reviews for the past 12 months. Yours is definitely among the best... Great POV, excellent audio, and good commentary! Now subbed, keep up the good work!
Thank you for this video. I had recently come to the conclusion that sometime in the next year or two I will own a 911. This perspective makes it certainly more attainable.
I love the 911!!. Owned a 79 SC 1997- 2003 great car. Bought a 99 996 Carrera 46k miles, like new and what a machine for the $. I really enjoy your video, keep up the good work. Ron in Tacoma
outstanding vid, own a 991.1 and im going back in time to the 997 carrera, many things to miss about the 991 but i feel the smile, i needed this vid , thank you
Honestly, I find the early 2000s entertainment screen a lot cooler than the ones we have nowadays. It reminds me of the days when those things were cool.
Just bought a base 997.1, and it’s nimble, fast and a blast to drive .. oh and you can actually see out of it…. Sold my 07 Aston Martin Vantage (while she was running perfect) at more than I paid, and I’m glad I did….. this is far more fun to drive
I love my 2006 911 Carerra.. no S.. its solid, handling is amazing and is fast as hell.. no complaints.. and oh yeah.. paid $38k for it.. it had under 40,000 miles.
Remember the base model is always the benchmark for that year, the other cars are just upgraded versions of an already perfect car. So the base is never lesser because its the starting point of greatness they then build upon. What makes 911 cars so special from a performance standpoint is the way they are put together. They don't always need monster hp or tq to be effective. The gearing, drivetrain, power to weight ratio, and how energy is translated within its design, allows for far more impressive performance than what you would think going in. Base Carreras from any year are still more fun to drive than most any other cars, and they look great doing it. Would I take this over my current e92 M3....YES.
I'm from the Netherland and live your video's and you comments in it. Specially when you talk about the behavior of the other drivers wich is funny and off course about the cars itself. Thanks.
I totally love my 997 non S, a great first Porsche. Fast. A beautiful car & you can use the power all the time. Totally planted. You don’t need to brake for corners, ever. 305 on the rears to fill the wheel arches is all I’ve done. Looks amazing. The steering is amazing and yes black gauges for the win.
Rear wiper Power !!! Tanks Ted especiallly for the sound quality or yours videos ! Greetings from Paris, France, where Porsches drive on unusual snow these very days ....
Just bought one exactly like this black one.. it’s the BEST Porsche to drive & enjoy for a gal that’s been dreaming of this car since I was 19yrs old..it’s the best therapy ever!
Now this is how you do a review! Say a few words, and than: Lets go for a ride! Too many reviewers try to spew their knowledge for the first 20 minutes, and then drive tor 2 minutes. You did it right!
Its funny how you say that people don't like the wheels, and they don't like the steering wheel. I like both of them! You mentioned no radio controls on the steering wheel. I don't even turn the radio on when I am driving my 911. To me, the radio is behind the back seats, and the gas pedal is the volume control.
I recently bought a 997.1 C4. It’s just lovely to drive, even if it’s not all that fast. My brother can keep up with me in his FD, but sheer speed isn’t the only thing you love about a car
I have had an ‘06 C4 for almost 2 years now. Maybe the best daily driver I have had. Camping trip, ski trip, kids to school, work nights, canyon carving, track days...it has done it all with fun and confidence (seriously, its on rails). It’s nice to get 3 solid pulls to 90 where a modern car you might only get 2.
In my opinion, the standard 997.1 Carrera with the 3.6 engine and standard exhaust system has the best sound of the modern porsches. It is pure and you can really hear the intake flaps opening at 4,500 rpm. Gets me every time.
There's a great saying about driving cars on the street: It's slow enough to be fun. I agree with your points on power and brakes. On the street, the power is more than enough, and brakes that are larger than necessary just add weight and deaden the steering feel. Good video!
Water-cooled, yet old schooled. I rode a 996 Carrera convertible, this beauty would be awesome to ride in. Thank you for recording and sharing. Awesome sound.
Just found your channel a few weeks ago and subscribed! Love your content. Thanks for showcasing a base Carrera 997. I have an 05 Cab myself. I love the driving experience. The 997 is the perfect mix of analog and new school. I often have folks that can't believe my car is 15 years old. The team really nailed the design. I have found the M96 has just the right amount of power I need. Honestly in this car, its just the entire package that just works so well. Again, thanks for a great review.
A base Carrera with sport chrono & PASM is 90% of the driving experience of the S. The larger displacement, bigger brakes, and 20mm lower suspension in the C2S really do make a noticeable difference. But is it worth the $10-15k premium you see for the C2S? Well, I thought so, so I bought one. But the base Carrera is, as you said, a hell of a lot of car for ~$30k
A suggestion: next time you prepare a video when driving into the sun, please consider turning on the car's lights so viewers can see the gauges. Liked your willingness to acknowledge your change in opinion: respect for that. Regards, David
Even with FU money, the 997 Carrera is probably my sports oriented daily driver. I've owned a 2003 TL, tracked a Vantage around the same vintage, and tracked a 430 Scuderia. This video confirms to me this is the perfect balance.
In march when Covid bottomed out our economy the 996 and 997 dropped within my means. This would become to be the first Porsche I have owned. I looked at both the 996 and the 997.1 Carrera. I ended up striking a deal on a 01' 996 for $20K usd. 34k original miles, black exterior, grey interior, 6sp manual coupe with over 20K in options. Honestly there was little difference in performance, IMO, between the 2 cars. I'll admit one does look a little nicer then the other but that did not justify and extra 10K for what felt like a very similar driving car. I think your review is spot on for the 997.1. AWD did not appeal to me. Turbo did not appeal to me. The NA engines are easy to work on and cheaper to maintain. Plus it's my favorite childhood car. Thanks Need for Speed on PS1!
I regularly look for new 996 and 997 videos. Thank you for making this fantastic video. I love hearing that the gen 1 non-S is a fun and capable car to drive. Like you said, the price point on these is very good. Thanks!
Ug, I was very close to buying a 997.2 S but given our previous conversations on me quiting work to pursue less lucrative passions I had to cancel that effort for now. I was originally looking at 996 but the 997.2 is such a step up in reliability and performance it was worth the extra cash to me. The 997.1 is such a great deal if you're willing to deal with the issues from the ims, and several other issues carried over from 996 engine.
I took the 2-day Porsche driving experience course back in 2008. Drove everything they had. Most fun was automatic base boxster doing autocross! We spent much of day 1 in 997, day 2 in 997 S. From a track feel perspective, the S (fitted with carbon ceramics) was only materially superior in braking. I left thinking I would buy the 997 for the street, and upgrade brakes if/when I decided to track
Completely agree. Lots of 911 character and and very capable. A great value. Personally I prefer that steering wheel over the round one in later years.
I agree that the driving experience of the base is very close to the S, the best reason to go for the S is that it's much easier to find higher specs on an S. Certainly in the UK it's very rare to find a base car with PASM and sport chrono like the car you drove in this video. The S often has the nicer steering wheel, full leather (which is very nice) and electric seats too. Plus I much prefer the white dials, but each to their own. One other thing to bear in mind is the interior colour. The grey plastic in the centre console etc doesn't really look great with the black interior, it looks cheap and old fashioned. I think a stone grey interior is much the best option because it goes much better with the plastics used around the car.
I bought 2006 C2 this year. Other than Chrono and a lightly tuned stock exhaust, it is BASE. Which is PERFECT. Power is usable. As is the practicality. They're a bargain in the UK currently. Find a good one and look after it and either never sell it and be happy, or cash the chips in a few years when everyone realises it was right car all along.
@@TedwardDrives If you get an '06+ that's been driven regularly (not low-mileage) I wouldn't worry too much about it. Get a PPI, keep the oil fresh, and go drive it :P
@@pushatsinfrared for sure, but rare still, and there is much known now about the causes, which inform preventative measures delaying or even avoiding the problem. Many high performance engines have "issues".
@@gregspark9845 it’s not the fact it has an issue, it’s how expensive it is to put right FiveM you have to re-sleeve the cylinders or at worst, do a fill engine rebuild. Cracking cars still, don’t get me wrong
Lol for the wiper! Great vid, I actually have a 997.1 C2 also and I prefer the black dials to the white ones I have in another S. Plenty of power across the range, non S is overlooked but is a proper 997 for sure , great vid! Thanks !
What's also very cool, albeit minor, is that this 2005 base has the optional black-top factory Sport Shifter (option # XCZ) that is super rare. It was just a one-year option, so only some of the '05 911s have 'em. Great car, and very under-rated. The base 3.4 engine is simply more fun to drive than the 3.8. (I've had both).
5,500rpm and up is where the fun is. I don't now why, it changes the exhaust note - variable timing maybe, but it's fun! Sport button essential, such a nicer throttle and better map. Macan steering wheel is a nice upgrade. You don’t need cruise control, I retro fitted it and never use it.
Here comes a hot take watch analogy! Confirm with your watch buddy lol. Boxster/Cayman = Tudor Black Bay. Base 911 = Datejust. 911S = Submariner. GT3 = Daytona. You don't need the Sub or the Daytona for sure. The base is plenty iconic.
You say “you won’t win any drag races” but 0-60 in about 5 seconds is nothing to be scoffed at and beats 95% of what’s on the road. The Porsche puts its power down so well off the line they you’ll often take cars with more power up to 60.
Have you been surprised by a car that you didn't expect to be good? Huge thanks to the Patreon supporters for making this content possible
Just like this car but one generation newer, I drove a 991.1 base carrera pdk. I being just the "base 911" didn't expect it to be so transcendent. It was the first 911 I drove after learning to drive properly. I have driven many front engined sports cars, including miatas, multiple generations of M3s and Corvettes, but nothing even comes close to the 991.1. Intresting how the older 997 base has a larger engine. The 991 base 3.4 engine needs to be revved a lot to get the real power which suited the pdk well.
I love the looks of 997.1 but that deeply flawed engine is horrible and IMS is small issue, whole oiling system and heat management is wrong, they had to almost scrap it all. For instance on left trailbraking engine oil us trapped and cannot be scavenged. If you can get x51 996/997 then it's semi passable engine.
Yep! My 6MT V6 Mustang puts a big ass smile on my face every time i drive i :D
surprisingly good sound, plenty of torque for back road driving and more than enough power to pass someone quickly. And good fuel mileage too!
The first gen Mazda6s (3.0L V6) has Variable Valve Timing. It’s somewhat similar to a S2000 with not much torque down low so you really need to rev it out but it’s a blast to rev it out imo and with independent rear suspension it’s not to bad in the twisties for a fwd sedan.
@@jothelegend8923 they are. I own a '15 GT but the V6 with the manual and 3.55 gears is actually really good. Just needs some handling mods.
“Any 911 is better than no 911” This man speaking nothing but truths.
"anything is better than nothing"
@@Angry-Lynx It depends having cancer isn't better than not having it
@@georgec2126 wtf
@@leeengland1748what?
@@leeengland1748 he has a point
Thank you for making this video specifically for me at this exact point right now here currently in my life today.
I just imagine you’re the only one I’m talking to 😂.. "Would The Topher call Shenanigans on this statement?"
Lol I love both of your channels 🧡. Anyways a Porsche is a Porsche for me which means great design now matter what just depends on how much you wanna spend on maintenance.
Did... you just quote Fry and Laurie?
I'm guessing the withdrawal syndrome triggered by walking away after driving the GT3 hits really hard...
I'm here 3 years later . 2024 I will have this Porsche 🙏!
The sound alone makes these old NA 911s great
Mmm it’s awesome
For me, if you're not getting a 3.8 or 4.0 in a new 911 or GT product, you might as well go with these older 911s for just a good driver's car.
I have base 997.1 C2. Even after 4 years, every time I drive it it's better than I remembered. Pure driving joy.
After seeing this video I picked up a 997.1 C2 manual with 26k miles, absolutely no regrets!
GT3’s have become way too common. Everyone wants one, but all they ever really need is a GTS AT MOST. A base Carrera is a lovely car. Underrated.
I love my 997.2 base. eventually I want a GTS but this is definately 99% the same car for my purposes
Just throw a $10,000 turbo kit on the 3.8 and make 550whp on tap, no need to spend 150k+ when 55k (2012 911 Carrera S)+10k(Turbo)+10k(shocks, wing) would make an ultimate track car.
@@floored3078 no don't ruin it with a turbo
^ you would put a turbo on a NA Carrera ?? 🤢
I have a black-on-black .2 base model, 6-speed manual, and I love it. Virtually no one puts out videos on the base trim cars, so thank you. It's a superb sports car, loads of speed and nimble. And to me, the black cluster looks both serious and beautiful. So easy to get caught up with upgrades. I drove an S2000 for twelve years before pulling the trigger on the 911, and I feel the base was upgrade enough.
Hey mate I'm driving an s2000 right now and considering going for a base 997.1. Does the 997 feel considerably faster?
@@AdamsLCof course it’s faster than a s2000
Over the past 40 years, I’ve owned a 1977 924, 1986 944, 2016 Cayman, now a 2018 911 Carrera........all base models, all manuals. For some perspective, I raced motorcycles for fifteen years and tracked Porsches for eight years. I can tell you this.........as an everyday driver (which all of mine have been), the base model Porsche is the best. Most people just have to have the “S” and, as nice as it is, it’s really overkill for daily use. Nice video.
@@carltoncotter2614 the difference is Porsche cars always have that special feel compared to the rest. Like it was mentioned in this video all other “sports cars” even M and AMG for example look like their base models with a bigger engine and a badge. You know a Porsche is a true sports car when you get into it.
Spot on comment
Great video. I intentionally purchased a 997.1 C2 earlier this year after test driving 996 C4S, 997.1 C4S and a 997.2 C2S. There's something very charming and pure about a base Carrera that gets diluted by the more powerful engines, PASMs, AWD and sport modes in the higher trim 911s.
This is the comment I was looking for. Thanks
Do you still have it?
I'm glad you made this video. I've always advocated for buying a base level car for cheap rather than spending 3-4x more on the performance version. You get 85% of the same car but for 30% of the price!
Agree. Had a 996 base and never felt a need for more power. It was fun to drive.
finally someone who shakes their shoes before entering the car
Can we talk about to how good that paintwork is for a 15 year old car! Good job whoever detailed it.
Even when the car were revving, the subtitles says "music" :)
I'm thrilled that RUclips auto subtitles know what real music is lol
Great video. I think the 997 is one of the best looking water cooled 911s.
I’m a 997.1 non-S & I love it! Thanks for the great review
I’ve never actually been in a 911 but by the video that 3.6 sounds damn well identical to the 3.2 in my 986 Boxster S. Damn that makes me happy.
The 3.2 is often overshadowed by IMS woes, but conversely it doesn't suffer from bore scoring like the 3.4 and I feel like it has a little more gnarl to the sound, which when you open it up sounds like an older air cooled car a bit.
Well done...great review. I have owned three 997's (one "S") and was happy to hear the "S" hype squelched....it is too often overstated. Any 911 is an awesome car compared to most other cars out there for the money.
These Porsche driving talks are amazing, also the sound of the car! :)
I may take the aircooler out today actually haha
Honestly after getting a good headset, I've gotta say that I really appreciate the use of binaural audio. I didn't realize how much it contributes to the viewing experience.
Agreed!!
One of best videos, pure facts, sound and no nonsense. You know how to drive 911, the engine enjoyed rewing over 4K when accelerating. I subscribe right away.
Thanks!
Never driven one but I've heard that the 3.6 is a sweeter revving engine than the 3.8
Your opinion on the “base” Carrera is spot on. Plenty of HP and much easier to afford. No way I can tell the difference unless tracking or racing. More important than buying the “S” is finding a 911 with manual transmission, sport exhaust. 👌🏽
So right!
The 997 and 987 are honestly the best sports cars you can buy today. A complete analog driving experience that no new car and match and they're not old enough to feel like vintage relics that you can't drive hard. Only thing that base Carerra needs is an exhaust (and possibly a nice short throw shifter to tighten up the gate just a touch )
Agreed on the shifter. It has a dash of vw feel 😂
@@TedwardDrives Let me know when you wanna review my 987 boxster (with said short throw). I can assure you won't be disappointed. Hit me up on IG.
Got one with both those, plus Ohlins coilovers and a ducktail 😊👍
I have the 997.1 with the cold air intake kit installed. The engine has this metallic howl that’s so addicting. Base model Porsche’s are already excellent no need to go for the higher models unless you’re trying to go 200mph. This car is a sub 5 second 0 to 60 car. 325hp for around 3,000lb. It’s not slow. It’s actually faster 0 to 60 with a Tiptronic. Also if you’re trying to buy a used Porsche get the black color. Black doesn’t show age as much.
A 911 does not need a sound system nor bluetooth - I would not even answer my phone, I'd just be listening to that symphony coming from the engine 🎶
I'm addicted to your content. Keep It coming!
Thanks! Will do!
Great review! I’m going to pull the trigger on a 997.1/2 next year, and have been watching reviews for the past 12 months. Yours is definitely among the best... Great POV, excellent audio, and good commentary! Now subbed, keep up the good work!
Thanks!
Thank you for this video. I had recently come to the conclusion that sometime in the next year or two I will own a 911. This perspective makes it certainly more attainable.
Hell ya brother! Btw Ted you shift gears like a GOD!
haha thank you...Always trying to improve and the tricky thing is adapting to a car I've never driven immediately
I love the 911!!. Owned a 79 SC 1997- 2003 great car. Bought a 99 996 Carrera 46k miles, like new and what a machine for the $. I really enjoy your video, keep up the good work. Ron in Tacoma
This is gorgeous
outstanding vid, own a 991.1 and im going back in time to the 997 carrera, many things to miss about the 991 but i feel the smile, i needed this vid , thank you
You know it’s gonna be a good day when tedward uploads!
Honestly, I find the early 2000s entertainment screen a lot cooler than the ones we have nowadays. It reminds me of the days when those things were cool.
That sound
It may be a cheap option for a 911... still looks and sounds good to me lol.
Just bought a base 997.1, and it’s nimble, fast and a blast to drive .. oh and you can actually see out of it…. Sold my 07 Aston Martin Vantage (while she was running perfect) at more than I paid, and I’m glad I did….. this is far more fun to drive
Seriously I have watches tons of 997 videos and this is the best review!
Thank you!
Everytime i search up my favorite car no matter what, i always get vids from tedward!
I love my 2006 911 Carerra.. no S.. its solid, handling is amazing and is fast as hell.. no complaints.. and oh yeah.. paid $38k for it.. it had under 40,000 miles.
Remember the base model is always the benchmark for that year, the other cars are just upgraded versions of an already perfect car. So the base is never lesser because its the starting point of greatness they then build upon. What makes 911 cars so special from a performance standpoint is the way they are put together. They don't always need monster hp or tq to be effective. The gearing, drivetrain, power to weight ratio, and how energy is translated within its design, allows for far more impressive performance than what you would think going in. Base Carreras from any year are still more fun to drive than most any other cars, and they look great doing it. Would I take this over my current e92 M3....YES.
I like the wiper, too
Rear wiper can be so helpful! frosty morning? pop on the defroster for a minute and then just wipe it all away!
Same is true of the 991 generation. I love my 991.1 c2 so much.
I'm from the Netherland and live your video's and you comments in it. Specially when you talk about the behavior of the other drivers wich is funny and off course about the cars itself.
Thanks.
Thanks Alfred!
I totally love my 997 non S, a great first Porsche. Fast. A beautiful car & you can use the power all the time. Totally planted. You don’t need to brake for corners, ever. 305 on the rears to fill the wheel arches is all I’ve done. Looks amazing. The steering is amazing and yes black gauges for the win.
Rear wiper Power !!! Tanks Ted especiallly for the sound quality or yours videos ! Greetings from Paris, France, where Porsches drive on unusual snow these very days ....
My 2006 base Carrera is the best car I've ever owned. Dependable as a daily, and fun as hell to drive!
Just bought one exactly like this black one.. it’s the BEST Porsche to drive & enjoy for a gal that’s been dreaming of this car since I was 19yrs old..it’s the best therapy ever!
This is the first 911 I ever drove (except it was a 997.2 and a convertible) and I absolutely loved it!
Same with the Cayman and Cayman S. The base is A LOT of fun!!! You wouldn’t believe it.
The base always felt underpowered to me. It's a great chassis but I was left feeling robbed of power
Now this is how you do a review! Say a few words, and than: Lets go for a ride! Too many reviewers try to spew their knowledge for the first 20 minutes, and then drive tor 2 minutes. You did it right!
You can read the brochure if you want to know silly facts. I just want you to experience the car with me haha
Its funny how you say that people don't like the wheels, and they don't like the steering wheel. I like both of them! You mentioned no radio controls on the steering wheel. I don't even turn the radio on when I am driving my 911. To me, the radio is behind the back seats, and the gas pedal is the volume control.
I recently bought a 997.1 C4. It’s just lovely to drive, even if it’s not all that fast. My brother can keep up with me in his FD, but sheer speed isn’t the only thing you love about a car
I was watching, and I thought the area you were driving in looked strangely familiar. Then I noticed you were close to where I live! Cool!!
I have had an ‘06 C4 for almost 2 years now. Maybe the best daily driver I have had. Camping trip, ski trip, kids to school, work nights, canyon carving, track days...it has done it all with fun and confidence (seriously, its on rails). It’s nice to get 3 solid pulls to 90 where a modern car you might only get 2.
In my opinion, the standard 997.1 Carrera with the 3.6 engine and standard exhaust system has the best sound of the modern porsches.
It is pure and you can really hear the intake flaps opening at 4,500 rpm. Gets me every time.
i always loved this one, its simple and you can have fun with it.
There's a great saying about driving cars on the street: It's slow enough to be fun. I agree with your points on power and brakes. On the street, the power is more than enough, and brakes that are larger than necessary just add weight and deaden the steering feel. Good video!
Water-cooled, yet old schooled. I rode a 996 Carrera convertible, this beauty would be awesome to ride in. Thank you for recording and sharing. Awesome sound.
Everything you have said, good or indifferent tells me that car is my perfect fit.
Awesome. After buying my first Porsche, a 991, I want to buy more 911's. It's crazy. My M3 never gave me that feeling.
Just found your channel a few weeks ago and subscribed! Love your content. Thanks for showcasing a base Carrera 997. I have an 05 Cab myself. I love the driving experience. The 997 is the perfect mix of analog and new school. I often have folks that can't believe my car is 15 years old. The team really nailed the design. I have found the M96 has just the right amount of power I need. Honestly in this car, its just the entire package that just works so well. Again, thanks for a great review.
I swear these videos are so satyisfying
A base Carrera with sport chrono & PASM is 90% of the driving experience of the S. The larger displacement, bigger brakes, and 20mm lower suspension in the C2S really do make a noticeable difference. But is it worth the $10-15k premium you see for the C2S? Well, I thought so, so I bought one. But the base Carrera is, as you said, a hell of a lot of car for ~$30k
A suggestion: next time you prepare a video when driving into the sun, please consider turning on the car's lights so viewers can see the gauges. Liked your willingness to acknowledge your change in opinion: respect for that. Regards, David
No Porsche is "base" in my opinion ❤
This is my reasonably attainable “dream car”.
I am getting one next month
Even today this Porsche is soo good looking
It aged so well
Even with FU money, the 997 Carrera is probably my sports oriented daily driver. I've owned a 2003 TL, tracked a Vantage around the same vintage, and tracked a 430 Scuderia. This video confirms to me this is the perfect balance.
I owned this same year 911 down to the paint color. I enjoyed it a lot.
In march when Covid bottomed out our economy the 996 and 997 dropped within my means. This would become to be the first Porsche I have owned. I looked at both the 996 and the 997.1 Carrera. I ended up striking a deal on a 01' 996 for $20K usd. 34k original miles, black exterior, grey interior, 6sp manual coupe with over 20K in options. Honestly there was little difference in performance, IMO, between the 2 cars. I'll admit one does look a little nicer then the other but that did not justify and extra 10K for what felt like a very similar driving car. I think your review is spot on for the 997.1. AWD did not appeal to me. Turbo did not appeal to me. The NA engines are easy to work on and cheaper to maintain. Plus it's my favorite childhood car. Thanks Need for Speed on PS1!
I regularly look for new 996 and 997 videos. Thank you for making this fantastic video. I love hearing that the gen 1 non-S is a fun and capable car to drive. Like you said, the price point on these is very good. Thanks!
Ug, I was very close to buying a 997.2 S but given our previous conversations on me quiting work to pursue less lucrative passions I had to cancel that effort for now. I was originally looking at 996 but the 997.2 is such a step up in reliability and performance it was worth the extra cash to me. The 997.1 is such a great deal if you're willing to deal with the issues from the ims, and several other issues carried over from 996 engine.
Tedward approved means a whole lot in my book. Great review!
Thank you!
I took the 2-day Porsche driving experience course back in 2008. Drove everything they had. Most fun was automatic base boxster doing autocross! We spent much of day 1 in 997, day 2 in 997 S. From a track feel perspective, the S (fitted with carbon ceramics) was only materially superior in braking. I left thinking I would buy the 997 for the street, and upgrade brakes if/when I decided to track
Completely agree. Lots of 911 character and and very capable. A great value. Personally I prefer that steering wheel over the round one in later years.
I agree that the driving experience of the base is very close to the S, the best reason to go for the S is that it's much easier to find higher specs on an S. Certainly in the UK it's very rare to find a base car with PASM and sport chrono like the car you drove in this video. The S often has the nicer steering wheel, full leather (which is very nice) and electric seats too. Plus I much prefer the white dials, but each to their own.
One other thing to bear in mind is the interior colour. The grey plastic in the centre console etc doesn't really look great with the black interior, it looks cheap and old fashioned. I think a stone grey interior is much the best option because it goes much better with the plastics used around the car.
Great video. 997 is my favourite of the modern era Porsches I think.
My uncle got his dream car last year, a 2009 Carrera S. Perfect car
This thing looks like a blast! Thank you for the fun review. Love the off color points about this car. 😆 lol 😆 hilarious.
I bought 2006 C2 this year. Other than Chrono and a lightly tuned stock exhaust, it is BASE. Which is PERFECT. Power is usable. As is the practicality. They're a bargain in the UK currently. Find a good one and look after it and either never sell it and be happy, or cash the chips in a few years when everyone realises it was right car all along.
Perfect video for my snowy day! Makes me miss driving grippy fun cars already!
I'm not ready for it lol...I just sent out your sticker today and the tee shirt should be on its way tomorrow =)
I don’t think you can get a better drivers car for the money right now than a 997 Carrera or Carrera S.
Agreed. IMS risk aside this is stupid reasonable
@@TedwardDrives If you get an '06+ that's been driven regularly (not low-mileage) I wouldn't worry too much about it. Get a PPI, keep the oil fresh, and go drive it :P
@@ganthrithor still gotta remember bore score. It’s easier to catch early minimising damage but still, it’s a risk
@@pushatsinfrared for sure, but rare still, and there is much known now about the causes, which inform preventative measures delaying or even avoiding the problem. Many high performance engines have "issues".
@@gregspark9845 it’s not the fact it has an issue, it’s how expensive it is to put right FiveM you have to re-sleeve the cylinders or at worst, do a fill engine rebuild. Cracking cars still, don’t get me wrong
Lol for the wiper! Great vid, I actually have a 997.1 C2 also and I prefer the black dials to the white ones I have in another S. Plenty of power across the range, non S is overlooked but is a proper 997 for sure , great vid! Thanks !
I like the wiper and I love the car. Definitely one of these in my future:)
Notification squad where you at haha
Lovely car. Possibly the best value 911 of the moment.
If i were shopping in this price range again I think I'd enjoy this more than the M3 on a daily basis
@@TedwardDrives Don't wait too long as I can't see why the prices are remaining so comparatively reasonable.
What's also very cool, albeit minor, is that this 2005 base has the optional black-top factory Sport Shifter (option # XCZ) that is super rare. It was just a one-year option, so only some of the '05 911s have 'em. Great car, and very under-rated. The base 3.4 engine is simply more fun to drive than the 3.8. (I've had both).
5,500rpm and up is where the fun is. I don't now why, it changes the exhaust note - variable timing maybe, but it's fun! Sport button essential, such a nicer throttle and better map. Macan steering wheel is a nice upgrade. You don’t need cruise control, I retro fitted it and never use it.
Good boy😂 Keep driving cool cars man!
Great video , probably the best bang for the buck in 911s .
Thanks! Totally agree
Brazil here, I really like your review and channel, +1 subscriber! :)
Thanks!!
I honestly loved my 997.2 C2 PDK that I'd absolutely buy it again.
My dad has one of these and I had no idea, went to see him at a pub with my girlfriend, quality car and was very fast in the high rev range
Here comes a hot take watch analogy! Confirm with your watch buddy lol. Boxster/Cayman = Tudor Black Bay. Base 911 = Datejust. 911S = Submariner. GT3 = Daytona. You don't need the Sub or the Daytona for sure. The base is plenty iconic.
brb while I run this by my watch friends lol
Can i get ger the 911(S) while wearing a BB 58 🤨
911 best car ever. Doesn’t matter what model. Manual 🔥
Did Tedward and theradbrad go to the same school? Both great commentators on RUclips. What county is that accent?
You say “you won’t win any drag races” but 0-60 in about 5 seconds is nothing to be scoffed at and beats 95% of what’s on the road. The Porsche puts its power down so well off the line they you’ll often take cars with more power up to 60.
As good as any 911. Still drives, looks and sounds amazing. Great bang for your buck.
Love the shoe shake before getting in!