And I’d previously thought that you were a proper petrolhead Matt! The 997.2 is probably the pinnacle of ‘traditionally sized’ 911’s and I don’t think there is anything else that would be considered a ‘sports car’ that you can use all year round and for north of a hundred thousand miles with so few problems. It’s a big car compared to the early swb 911’s of the ’60’s, but tiny compared to the 991 & 992 generation cars. Yes, it generates quite a lot of road noise (although there are some quieter tyre brands than others that help with this), but everything else about driving them is fabulous. And the PCM handsfree phone has very good noise cancelling so you can be heard, even at speed! And then there’s that view over the rear haunches through the door mirrors - you captured it in the video - and it’s something that you can never tire of seeing. Nor the solidity of that interior. The SL is a wonderful boulevard cruiser, but a 997 is so much more than that. We even used our last one for the school run until the arrival of our fourth child - try that in an SL! Oh, and those turbo-style wheels that you liked so much are probably the worst feature of the beautiful example that you reviewed. I rest my case, m’lud 😂
Thanks Matt - As always, great content and great humour. Particularly appreciate that your reviews are about cars that 95% of us are seriously looking at as opposed to those channels that cover the cars that 95% of us are seriously dreaming about!
Laughing out loud watching your videos Matt, I have been in the motor trade for 46 years, self employed Garage owner since 1985, never advertised and more work than you can shake a stick at, and you sir are one of the few traders I would buy a car from, that is the highest accolade I can give you. Keep up the good work, I won't be surprised to see you on TV.
I’ve had Porsches for over 20 years. My current 997.2 C4S manual convertible is 13 years old and brilliant in every way. Not gonna sell it any time soon. A keeper!
I drove my 997.1 Carrera S on a daily basis for 18 months and covered 8k miles in it. Aside from fuel, insurance and tax it never cost me a penny more and I sold it for what I paid for it. A very different financial story comes with the SL55 I was running at the same time!
I think the fact that the cheapest 911 is usually a tiptronic convertible 4 wheel drive (which in isolation sounds nice for a weekend) Shows what a 911 is actually good at,IE keeping up with with more exotic makes at a lower price and robust build quality.
Quite refreshing to see a review on a Porsche that is not biased on how it is gods gift to the human race. I have just entered into Porsche ownership with a base cayman 987 and it is great and my daily driver. Although I would prefer a 911 in all honesty it’s more about prestige as I’m sure I’m getting 95% of the Porsche driving experience on uk roads with my cayman. Great vid
Always been a favourite of mine, build quality, timeless design, simplicity of controls- no horrible unsightly touch screens, just a lovely driving environment. Hope you get chance to review a Cayman in the future, some Porsche enthusiasts prefer that to the 911.
I was a 70s kid. Grew up in the sticks. My dad had shit cars - Morris 1100, Maxi, Marina... I lusted after 3 litre Capri's and Granada's. Those were about the best cars you ever saw round my way. My mate's family owned the Walkers shortbread factory. They were all minted and usually ran around in BMWs. Until his uncle bought a black 911. Omfg. I can still see it parked on the hill outside the back of the bakery. It was like something from a different universe. The shape, the size of the wheels. A speedo that went up to 160! When you ran your hand along the paint you could feel its density. I would stare at that thing every day on the way home from school. I'd draw the Porsche badge on my school books. Obsessed. The 997 is a great looking 911. Understated. I'd love to indulge in one as a weekend car - but not having a garage I know I'd be worrying about it all the time sitting on the street. As for the vfm...if they don't really depreciate - you're basically getting a car for running costs surely?
Great video and well balanced views. I have owned a 911 since 1997, and my current 997.1 since 2014. I love 911s. I do particularly ❤my 997.1. Not everyone’s cup of tea, granted. Every time I get into mine (weekend/European adventures car), I have a silly grin and making memories is so important. Having enjoyed so many of your other videos, congratulations on this one!!
A bang on review,your pro’s and con’s were spot on as usual.The course looks excellent for people who want to get into the business and avoid the mistakes and pitfalls.All the very best to you Matt.I have said this before that you and Harry’s garage are my only two car review channels(as in my humble opinion,are the best).👍🏼
Good video, added to your consumer buying advice would be to get a bore scope done. Owners in the UK make the mistake of "warming" the 911 engine, so turn it on let it run for 15 mins before use. It's not designed for that, the oil pressure is too low and hence bore scoring occurs. In Germany they jump in fire it up and drive it. Don't be too afraid to use it, it serves the engine better in the long run. Tagra 4s manual for me if I can find it.
Ever time I jump in mine I fire it up and go straight away but the proper warm up routine is to do just that but to then drive without going over 4000 rpm until your oil temp is at 90’. Then you’re free to rev it as you please. This is the true way to warm up your 997. It even tells you in the manual.
Thanks - great fair and accurate review. I had a 997.2 for 5 years and loved it though my wife hated the road noise. Now got and F type which is a very different car but love it too.
Another great video. I think your summary “I want one but I don’t crave one” is spot on. They are great cars no doubt but they are not great value for money. On the few occasions I have been toy shopping in the past I have looked at 911s but in the end went for Jaguar or Mercedes. Maybe not as sexy but fun enough for me and much better value.
As a prior owner of a 997 and a current owner of a 991 S, your review is pretty spot on. It's great fun on the winding mountain roads in Colorado, but it's not much fun for a long road trip. I won't take it on a trip longer than about 90 minutes. One other advantage: the 911 has a lot of glass so the outward vision front and rear is very good. You can't say that about many sports cars.
Hi Morgan, I've heard only in the US Porsche is offering a special safety box for firearms, with a quick release mechanism? It is not available in any other country but the US?
I had a Targa back in 1996 which had VW Beatle upside down pedals never got used to the car but had a 928 Manual then a 928 Sport Manual which I kept for years it Gobbled up the miles from Cheshire to London every other week such a fantastic car these 911 today look great but £80k upward + options are a dear car. As you say Service history so important if you don't there could be a Hefty Bill around the corner !!! Happy New Year 😎
A Porsche is a Porsche and will always appeal just because of the name. They do look good and classy. Happy new year to you too Matthew, all the best with the course and up and coming merchandise.
997.2 definitely the best 997 (personally not so keen on the blobby taillights), but would take one in any colour combination (as long as its not boring black). Happy New Year to everyone.
I owned a 911SC back in the '80's. Must say, the sound of the engine was a very big part of what I loved about it. Visceral. This one here doesn't seem to sound much at all.
Been following the channel for a while and love it - but never subscribed - until this video. Your reviews are so.. sensible and every word you say makes sense - I just had to sign in and subscribe after this one. Keep up the good work! 👍
Thanks for what comes across as a really balanced review. Hoping to get an early 997 as a weekend car so it’s lack of practicalities won’t be so much of an issue. Happy new year by the way! 🙂
I’ve got a convertible 997.2 Never had an issue with space. Sometimes have two toddlers in the back. Shopping fits in the front fine. I’ve even toured Europe and have two specially made to fit suitcases that sit in the front for two adults. Not to mention the space in the back for other luggage under the wind deflector. Sure it’s not a SUV, but that’s not what you’re buying it for.......
@@ianrivaldosmith wish my 2 were still that young. At 10 and 12, they’re already at the point they will struggle to be comfortable for anything other than a short journeys. As you’ve pointed out though, it would be a great car for a weekend trips away with just the missus. 🙂
Nice to see someone else who has the same opinion as me on 911's. I get why people buy them but they don't do anything for me. Regardless of age/price point there are always other cars that I'd choose over one. Each to their own and all that.... Cheers.
I love the banshee wail of the Porsche straight six at high revs. Much better with a sports exhaust. But that road noise would really get on my wick. Thanks for the cupholder shoutout. Very usable!
Agree with all your points , I actually drove this back to back with an xkr and as you said the 911 is probably a better all round car but the xkr was just a brutal beast with a much better soundtrack and I felt it was also quicker than the 911. Good review 👍
I tweaked the tendons around both knees trying to get into the Porsche drivers seat and never liked it after that... TVRs sound much better and just as focused. I had an XKR convertible for many years and it was delightful. I think you are really a GT driver at heart - that Bentley Continental was all the car you will ever need! ❤️ I hope you still have it in your collection. 😐 Happy New year. 🥂
Great review of a car I've always lusted after. I am not a fan of big cars myself even though I'm 6 foot. I like cars to be nimble. Love the Amish Christmas reference.
You deserve to do well mate, you work bloody dam hard ( I don`t think most people realise ) Sorry I do believe over 84K subscribers states that they do 💥💥💥 Reg`s as always Steve 👌
Very fair review. I have a 997.1 and agree with your comments. Great car, great build quality, fantastic engine and suspension and fantastic handling and performance. I'm not seeing the gas mileage you are seeing and the tire wear is pretty bad. Bumpy ride but a 2006 car so it probably needs some work there. It rips but the roads where I live are probably not the best. Best of luck with the car. Very nice and thanks for your review. My z4 is a better car for where I live but be 911 is a beast and I really like ripping ip up. they always wanted a 911!
Yeah. Get one with a sport button and drive it in that mode once the oil Is up to temp. The PSE exhaust is nice, but personally I haven’t felt the need.
I had a couple of air cooled 911 s cars. For near on 30 year’s I’m considering a 997 I love the way you call it. Is this your sales Technique, you mentioned, sold I like your honesty. ( Geeky ) grrrrr .
Never owned one but in my younger days used to do a lot of track days, for me that's what this is for, I couldn't imagine driving one on the commute everyday or nipping to Asda in it;
As someone that (successfully) hunted for the right 911 for almost a year and got my head around all the ins and outs, versions, pros and cons, I found the data being mixed up less exciting. 320 hp.... no 997 hat that, the 997.1 started with 325 hp as 3.6. I would have been very happy to find the version you were in, the 3.6 DFI with 345 hp, but am equally happy about my 3.8 DFI with 385 hp... ;-) I must admit I do not travel UK roads and have enjoyed the ride in mine for long travel a lot. Given I drive only in sunshine and roof open, I do not share your view on the noise... I actually use the Bose system rarely, just listening to my standard (no “sunglass” button) engine and exhaust note. And... I love my chocolate brown, full leather interieur (with dodgy creme white exterieur), it was secondary to the combination of 997.2 manual low mileage convertible - if you see this car as occassional car (I normally drive a nice Volvo T8 - no noise...) to enjoy some country road or cross continent joy machine. Then you nail it. Oh. Right, they hold their value well. In the long run, that’s good for your buyers!
I don’t have many regrets but swapping my MY2004 997 for a MY2006 Aston Martin DB9 Manuel Convertible is one... yeah yeah yeah I hear, but honestly, the 997 was easier to drive and place on the road and just didn’t feel as “fragile” as the DB9. For sure, the Aston was gorgeous and the exhaust noise stunning.... I guess what I’m actually saying is I miss both...😄
A beautiful example, a great kick-off review in a beautiful winter backdrop 👍 For me, after my Euromillions win, a white on black, manual 997.2 Carrera 😁
The thrill of the 911 is the unique way it’s drives by having the engine in the rear. They should always be 2 wheel drive, not 4. Options are for princesses, keep it basic. I drove to Lake Como in my 996 with my wife and son (toddler). There was enough space, it was comfortable and fun, especially over the Italian passes. It’s never going to be practical like a SUV but who wants one of those. Happy New Year. Keep up the videos.
997 for the way to Como AND the SUV for the family trip with the inlaws.... and all is well. Try next time crossing Massif Central, Andorra to Barcelona - epic drive. Awesome roads, few people.
Do I win a prize for spotting the deliberate typo on your course? At 0:54 on the right-hand-side of the screen "Over the last ten yours..." Another great video mate, keep them coming...beatiful car.
You are so right about the 911 engine sound, Mat. I never understood the journalists praising its engine sound, even when they're talking about the GT3 with its 9k max RPM. IHMO, it's just a noise, bordering on droning.
Very enjoyable review. Reminds me of a 6000 mile Boxster I bought some years ago, a big expense for me at the time. I had to come to terms with the fact the car wasn't for me: no carrying space worth talking about and pointless going to and from work where I was lucky to do 50 for 2 minutes. Nice as a 3rd car toy for a successful plumber. but useless if its your only vehicle.
I really enjoy your vids, sensible and real world analysis of each vehicle.I am a Merc fan ,Have an E class coupe 450 at the moment ,so liked your take on sl 55. Porsche 996 and 997,not so impressive . Keep up good work
Nice Car, and Nice Video...Very informative as always....Also you have a Very Nice Watch....Is that a Rolex Explorer on your wrist? Sorry to go off subject lol.
I'm kind of with you on this one, Matt. There are not many of us who can completely ignore day to day practicality. Even if you're just on a day out, you still need to take stuff. You'll just about be able to pack a picnic, a blanket and your manbag. Then there's the road noise, which came through loud and clear. Who wants that? Granted, I'm not exactly the target demographic for a Porsche 911 997 but I am of an age that can afford one. My boy racer days are well and truly behind me, so a 911 would just drive me crackers. Great Video, thank you. Oh, Happy to New Year to you, too.
Happy New Year to you too and all viewers etc. Just a few comments, I bought a 1990, 928 S4 back in 2001 which had an impeccable service history on it and was the 5 litre v8 model Auto as a second car with an E class diesel estate which was made in the stone age. They both felt as though they had been carved out of a solid block of metal, though with the Merc they did less carving and I am sure it just flattened bumps in the road and over 5 years the 928 cost me next to nothing to run with servicing only. 2015 I finally bought a car I had wanted since I was a kid, a 911 silver convertible 996.2 on a private plate. Had been well looked after with refurbed headlights, alloys, new clutch, dansk s/s exhaust and the "right" options at a decent price. Got the IMS bearing done and RMS etc and water pump the following year but the build quality was no where near the same somehow. Space in the back for the 928 was actually usable and with the hatch I got the drivers seat from the Merc in there to be re-sprung the 911 is very very limited. With the S/Steel exhaust they do sing well but you need the revs right up there to get the best sound, and performance for that matter. Somehow though I don't think they look special enough any more, with the old 928 kids and adults would stop and look at it and if I was near was often asked questions, with the 911 which I sold after 2 years and didn't lose any money on, no one showed a blind bit of interest. They are a great well developed car and I know a Chief Exec who buys the latest and greatest every few years with l the toys and he is a multi millionaire petrol head with about 8 cars and a Harley. Top and bottom of it is don't buy one without hiring one for a weekend to see if it hits the mark, oh one last thing, Hard braking on a 911, especially in the wet is a knack, don't mash the brake pedal like mad as the front ABS will go nuts gradual hard braking so you get good weight transference the 997 is 40% front 60% rear weight distribution and you usually rely on the front to do 70% of the braking older models were more rear biased around 65-35 Great video
As usual a fantastic review. I had to change my incontinance pads three times your costing me a bloody fortune. Seriously, great start for the new year and wishing you all the best in 2021.
I've had a 911 TT 997 AND a 997 Targa 4S, both 2007 models......BOTH were worth every penny!! Awesome cars! Still have the aftermarket wheels I got though :(
Happy new year great video. Im with you, i want a 911 because I’m a petrol head, and its got to be on every petrol heads bucket list. But when i find one i like , i find i talk myself out of it, not enough room , too cramped, and your right about the noise, the rasping exhaust is great, but the tyre noise on a motorway is annoying, ive come to the conclusion owning a 911 impresses my friends more than it impresses me, having said that don’t be surprised if i buy one, a bucket list is a bucket list!
Hi Matt, loving your channel mate. I started up selling cars myself a couple of years ago, it’s good watching how you did it. Keep up the good videos! 👍
Good solid review of a solid car. I agree totally with your opinion and top jesting as well. She is looking at a Panamera Turismo so a review soon would be timely 👌 Things look set for you to have a great new year and I hope the course flies off the shelves. That way you will have more time to make content like this.😄
Hi Matt you forgot two things, Road presence and prestige, I love my Porker and would not swap it gold clock or a newer variant if I'm honest... they have a soul I have 2005 model.. Have a great new year. thanks for your You Tube content... Awesome.
Happy new year to you, and I hope lots more videos come along. I can imagine your video academy is completely watchable and a labour of love , and as thorough as your channel content.
spot onMatt , this is a pure sports car! you could definitely feel the road etc cramped! etc. I've never owned a Porsche.. all older men driving 5 mph below the speed limit! by the time they sell these cars they are just broken in! the same way with a Mercedes! and they dropped in value to a point where stabilization occurs or slightly going up in value! r230 is perfect between sport and luxury. r231 is sport sport luxury, I just love your review, Matt
Happy New Year, Matt! I totally agree with you re the Porsche 911 whatever etc. Like you I prefer certain Jaguars, i.e. cars with (British) soul! To be fair, I have no personal experience with Porsches, have not even been inside one...but my brother has. He told me he was thoroughly exhausted after a one-week long distance business trip as a passenger in an older 911. Too much noise, no comfort, cramped, bumpy etc. My experience with a well sorted Jaguar, however, is quite different. I’ve driven many times between Bergen and Oslo, across the mountains in Norway. Even if I happened to be a bit tired after a full day in the office before I started, I was fully rested an happy on arrival about 7 hours later, after 500 km on the road. After a long drive like that in a Porsche I would be in great pain, but hopefully alive..... Good luck your car dealer courses. I’m retired and wouldn’t qualify anyway.
Sports exhaust really finishes it. Sport mode is excellent, just turn off the suspension, you don’t need stiff(er) suspension on British roads. You have to consider the alternatives, they aren’t any. RS4 maybe, but the 911 looks amazing. Everyone knows it and compliments yuu & it. 997.1 is timeless.
Me, geeky? How dare you!! Hi Matt, hope you are well. I love the 911. I lust after them. And I don't know all the models either. The thing that rattles me is the stupid road tax. Most of these cars, as you've pointed out before, are weekend cars, like my LS460. 200 quid insurance, 600 quid r/t. The r/t should be on the fuel cost, makes more sense to me. Most motoring orgs in uk have been calling for this for years. Being a w/e car means minimal miles, but we get punished for BIGg/km Co2 levels. If I did your course would that make me more geeky? Thanks for sharing. Stay safe and keep up the good work.
Hi Matt Must admit I’ve stayed away from them , as in the wet ( which is most the time in the Uk ) it has all the stability of Steven Hawkins after a bottle of whiskey , and never fancied being woke up by the ambulance service in someone’s front garden 😛👍 so I’d save me money and by a range and offer a lift to someone in a 911 stuck at the bottom of a hill in the snow 😂😂🙏👍 happy new year mate and good luck in 2021 🇬🇧🙏👍
One good thing about a National Trust membership, is that it sometimes reveals some fun country roads. The problem is that *other* National Trust members are also on them.
And I’d previously thought that you were a proper petrolhead Matt!
The 997.2 is probably the pinnacle of ‘traditionally sized’ 911’s and I don’t think there is anything else that would be considered a ‘sports car’ that you can use all year round and for north of a hundred thousand miles with so few problems. It’s a big car compared to the early swb 911’s of the ’60’s, but tiny compared to the 991 & 992 generation cars.
Yes, it generates quite a lot of road noise (although there are some quieter tyre brands than others that help with this), but everything else about driving them is fabulous. And the PCM handsfree phone has very good noise cancelling so you can be heard, even at speed!
And then there’s that view over the rear haunches through the door mirrors - you captured it in the video - and it’s something that you can never tire of seeing. Nor the solidity of that interior.
The SL is a wonderful boulevard cruiser, but a 997 is so much more than that. We even used our last one for the school run until the arrival of our fourth child - try that in an SL!
Oh, and those turbo-style wheels that you liked so much are probably the worst feature of the beautiful example that you reviewed.
I rest my case, m’lud 😂
Thanks Matt - As always, great content and great humour. Particularly appreciate that your reviews are about cars that 95% of us are seriously looking at as opposed to those channels that cover the cars that 95% of us are seriously dreaming about!
Glad you like them! More of the same to come
Laughing out loud watching your videos Matt, I have been in the motor trade for 46 years, self employed Garage owner since 1985, never advertised and more work than you can shake a stick at, and you sir are one of the few traders I would buy a car from, that is the highest accolade I can give you. Keep up the good work, I won't be surprised to see you on TV.
Thanks for watching! All the best
Wow what a great compliment! True I wouldn't be surprised either if he ends up having his own tv programme... 👍🏻
I see him on tv all the time :P
He’s everything MrJWW tries to be...who constantly bleats on about not ‘having the words’...well this guy has the words 👏🏻
@@mbal4052 Matt actually has a brain and worked for his money.
Had a 997 C4S manual. Replaced IMS bearing. Lovely car to drive and the 4S body shape is classic 911
My favourite shape 911
Mine too. Its definitely the cleanest shape
I hear that. Looks like a proper banker’s racer 🔥
Yes. Buy one. I bought a 2009 997.2 CS coupe manual. Just amazing to drive. Going up in value too
I’ve had Porsches for over 20 years. My current 997.2 C4S manual convertible is 13 years old and brilliant in every way. Not gonna sell it any time soon. A keeper!
997 in blue with small wheels looks so classy and functional.
I drove my 997.1 Carrera S on a daily basis for 18 months and covered 8k miles in it. Aside from fuel, insurance and tax it never cost me a penny more and I sold it for what I paid for it. A very different financial story comes with the SL55 I was running at the same time!
I bet! Thats the great thing about the 911
I think the fact that the cheapest 911 is usually a tiptronic convertible 4 wheel drive (which in isolation sounds nice for a weekend)
Shows what a 911 is actually good at,IE keeping up with with more exotic makes at a lower price and robust build quality.
I love scrolling through auto trader looking for cars like that for far less money then they are worth, hopefully one day it pays off.
Quite refreshing to see a review on a Porsche that is not biased on how it is gods gift to the human race. I have just entered into Porsche ownership with a base cayman 987 and it is great and my daily driver. Although I would prefer a 911 in all honesty it’s more about prestige as I’m sure I’m getting 95% of the Porsche driving experience on uk roads with my cayman. Great vid
I agree! Thanks for watching
Always been a favourite of mine, build quality, timeless design, simplicity of controls- no horrible unsightly touch screens, just a lovely driving environment. Hope you get chance to review a Cayman in the future, some Porsche enthusiasts prefer that to the 911.
Always loved the 911. Fair play to Porsche for continually evolving it.
I was a 70s kid. Grew up in the sticks. My dad had shit cars - Morris 1100, Maxi, Marina... I lusted after 3 litre Capri's and Granada's. Those were about the best cars you ever saw round my way. My mate's family owned the Walkers shortbread factory. They were all minted and usually ran around in BMWs. Until his uncle bought a black 911.
Omfg. I can still see it parked on the hill outside the back of the bakery. It was like something from a different universe. The shape, the size of the wheels. A speedo that went up to 160! When you ran your hand along the paint you could feel its density. I would stare at that thing every day on the way home from school. I'd draw the Porsche badge on my school books. Obsessed.
The 997 is a great looking 911. Understated. I'd love to indulge in one as a weekend car - but not having a garage I know I'd be worrying about it all the time sitting on the street. As for the vfm...if they don't really depreciate - you're basically getting a car for running costs surely?
Thats a very good point. Over the years we're exposed to better and more exotic cars most people have become desensitised
Absolutely love the videos man, you're destined for great things!
Glad you like them! Thanks!
Nice review Matt. Honest and to the point. I have owned a 997.1 C2 for almost 10 years and agree.
Great video and well balanced views. I have owned a 911 since 1997, and my current 997.1 since 2014. I love 911s. I do particularly ❤my 997.1. Not everyone’s cup of tea, granted.
Every time I get into mine (weekend/European adventures car), I have a silly grin and making memories is so important.
Having enjoyed so many of your other videos, congratulations on this one!!
The sunglasses button you describe actually denotes exhaust performance in sport mode
I have that same interior color scheme with black exterior on my 2009 C2S manual. Best car I’ve ever owned. Btw, great video! Keep up the good work!
A bang on review,your pro’s and con’s were spot on as usual.The course looks excellent for people who want to get into the business and avoid the mistakes and pitfalls.All the very best to you Matt.I have said this before that you and Harry’s garage are my only two car review channels(as in my humble opinion,are the best).👍🏼
Thank you! I appreciate it
Good video, added to your consumer buying advice would be to get a bore scope done. Owners in the UK make the mistake of "warming" the 911 engine, so turn it on let it run for 15 mins before use. It's not designed for that, the oil pressure is too low and hence bore scoring occurs. In Germany they jump in fire it up and drive it. Don't be too afraid to use it, it serves the engine better in the long run. Tagra 4s manual for me if I can find it.
Good advice
Ever time I jump in mine I fire it up and go straight away but the proper warm up routine is to do just that but to then drive without going over 4000 rpm until your oil temp is at 90’. Then you’re free to rev it as you please. This is the true way to warm up your 997. It even tells you in the manual.
i’ve only just started watching this video and already i’m amazed at how hard you’ve worked on your course, great work mate 💯
Cheers!
Thanks - great fair and accurate review. I had a 997.2 for 5 years and loved it though my wife hated the road noise. Now got and F type which is a very different car but love it too.
I'm yet to have an F Type. How does that compared road noise wise?
Chalk and cheese with the 911 on road noise. Not as sophisticated as a 911 but buckets of character - welcome to review mine
Another great video.
I think your summary “I want one but I don’t crave one” is spot on. They are great cars no doubt but they are not great value for money. On the few occasions I have been toy shopping in the past I have looked at 911s but in the end went for Jaguar or Mercedes. Maybe not as sexy but fun enough for me and much better value.
As a prior owner of a 997 and a current owner of a 991 S, your review is pretty spot on. It's great fun on the winding mountain roads in Colorado, but it's not much fun for a long road trip. I won't take it on a trip longer than about 90 minutes. One other advantage: the 911 has a lot of glass so the outward vision front and rear is very good. You can't say that about many sports cars.
Thats true. Interesting to hear your thoughts as an owner. Cheers
Hi Morgan, I've heard only in the US Porsche is offering a special safety box for firearms, with a quick release mechanism? It is not available in any other country but the US?
I had a Targa back in 1996 which had VW Beatle upside down pedals never got used to the car but had a 928 Manual then a 928 Sport Manual which I kept for years it Gobbled up the miles from Cheshire to London every other week such a fantastic car these 911 today look great but £80k upward + options are a dear car. As you say Service history so important if you don't there could be a Hefty Bill around the corner !!! Happy New Year 😎
Sunglass mode... Hilarious 😂
Nice video, happy new year.
Thanks 😅
A Porsche is a Porsche and will always appeal just because of the name. They do look good and classy. Happy new year to you too Matthew, all the best with the course and up and coming merchandise.
Thanks! Happy new year too!
997.2 definitely the best 997 (personally not so keen on the blobby taillights), but would take one in any colour combination (as long as its not boring black). Happy New Year to everyone.
I owned a 911SC back in the '80's. Must say, the sound of the engine was a very big part of what I loved about it. Visceral. This one here doesn't seem to sound much at all.
Hi Matt you are now driving my Dream car of all time Beautiful by far the best
They're great cars. Such a nice looking thing
Good luck with the course Matt. Great idea. Happy New Year!
Top form on the analogies, good luck with the course, and yes you did say"at one" 🤣🤣
Lovely colour, but still waiting for that Lada Samara review.
Been following the channel for a while and love it - but never subscribed - until this video. Your reviews are so.. sensible and every word you say makes sense - I just had to sign in and subscribe after this one. Keep up the good work! 👍
Thanks! I appreciate it. 76% of my viewers dont subscribe which is a bit frustrating :)
The XKR is truly amazing. Still love this review. Well done on starting the academy
Thanks!
Thanks for what comes across as a really balanced review. Hoping to get an early 997 as a weekend car so it’s lack of practicalities won’t be so much of an issue. Happy new year by the way! 🙂
Thats the thing, maybe I'm too fussy. If you're using it as a weekend toy then most of the issues I've mentioned aren't an issue
I’ve got a convertible 997.2
Never had an issue with space. Sometimes have two toddlers in the back.
Shopping fits in the front fine.
I’ve even toured Europe and have two specially made to fit suitcases that sit in the front for two adults. Not to mention the space in the back for other luggage under the wind deflector.
Sure it’s not a SUV, but that’s not what you’re buying it for.......
@@ianrivaldosmith wish my 2 were still that young. At 10 and 12, they’re already at the point they will struggle to be comfortable for anything other than a short journeys. As you’ve pointed out though, it would be a great car for a weekend trips away with just the missus. 🙂
I bought this month exactly the same porsche 997.2 carrera 4s pdk with the GT-steeringwheel with paddels. it‘s a great car!
Nice to see someone else who has the same opinion as me on 911's. I get why people buy them but they don't do anything for me.
Regardless of age/price point there are always other cars that I'd choose over one.
Each to their own and all that....
Cheers.
I love the banshee wail of the Porsche straight six at high revs. Much better with a sports exhaust. But that road noise would really get on my wick.
Thanks for the cupholder shoutout. Very usable!
Haha thanks!
Agree with all your points , I actually drove this back to back with an xkr and as you said the 911 is probably a better all round car but the xkr was just a brutal beast with a much better soundtrack and I felt it was also quicker than the 911. Good review 👍
I tweaked the tendons around both knees trying to get into the Porsche drivers seat and never liked it after that... TVRs sound much better and just as focused. I had an XKR convertible for many years and it was delightful. I think you are really a GT driver at heart - that Bentley Continental was all the car you will ever need! ❤️ I hope you still have it in your collection. 😐 Happy New year. 🥂
I think youre right. I love a GT car
That was a really great honest review. I also now know not to swap my S3 Saloon for one
Great job👍👍
Thanks! 👍
The 4s is actually my perfect spec if I wanted a daily. If it's too loud on a run just turn the music up haha
Happy New Year to you too Matt and thanks for all the videos. Really enjoyed this one.
Happy new year! Thanks for watching!
Great review of a car I've always lusted after. I am not a fan of big cars myself even though I'm 6 foot. I like cars to be nimble. Love the Amish Christmas reference.
Thanks!
The Amish may not have many presents at Christmas, but they have more horsepower.
Hahaha yes!
A little known fact about the Amish is many raise female draft horses just collect their urine for pharmaceutical companies.
You deserve to do well mate, you work bloody dam hard ( I don`t think most people realise ) Sorry I do believe over 84K subscribers states that they do 💥💥💥 Reg`s as always Steve 👌
Thanks Steve! I appreciate it!
Well said Steve ... total agreement. Ken
@@kenem1946 👌 thanks Ken 👌
The most useful review of a 911 for real-world purchasers I have ever see/read.
“...as many extras as an Amish Family Living Room....” ......haha, pissed myself.
Hahaha cheers!
Michelin PS4 tires drastically reduces cabin noise ....not to mention handling goes up even more !!! awsome tires ...great vid
@@space_114v2 I have them on my car, it came with them and I got a new set when they wore out. Great tyres and I won’t buy cheap ones ever again.
Thanks for the upload Matt, an amazing looking car. Keep up the good work and always very very appreciated.
Thanks!
Last of the analogue 911's At One with the car ! Best car I have ever driven and own ! Not been bias ;)
Very fair review. I have a 997.1 and agree with your comments. Great car, great build quality, fantastic engine and suspension and fantastic handling and performance. I'm not seeing the gas mileage you are seeing and the tire wear is pretty bad. Bumpy ride but a 2006 car so it probably needs some work there. It rips but the roads where I live are probably not the best. Best of luck with the car. Very nice and thanks for your review. My z4 is a better car for where I live but be 911 is a beast and I really like ripping ip up. they always wanted a 911!
Absolutely top drawer! Keep it going through 2021! ........and congrats on getting the Academy up and running! Great Work. 👍
Thank you so much 😀
Yeah. Get one with a sport button and drive it in that mode once the oil
Is up to temp. The PSE exhaust is nice, but personally I haven’t felt the need.
I had a couple of air cooled
911 s cars. For near on 30 year’s I’m considering a 997 I love the way you call it. Is this your sales Technique, you mentioned, sold I like your honesty. ( Geeky ) grrrrr .
Never owned one but in my younger days used to do a lot of track days, for me that's what this is for, I couldn't imagine driving one on the commute everyday or nipping to Asda in it;
Wow, love the honesty of everything you say. Thank you. I have the 911 inner wish, currently in a Macan S. Love it. Will follow.
I like the Macan. Do you rate it?
As someone that (successfully) hunted for the right 911 for almost a year and got my head around all the ins and outs, versions, pros and cons, I found the data being mixed up less exciting.
320 hp.... no 997 hat that, the 997.1 started with 325 hp as 3.6. I would have been very happy to find the version you were in, the 3.6 DFI with 345 hp, but am equally happy about my 3.8 DFI with 385 hp... ;-)
I must admit I do not travel UK roads and have enjoyed the ride in mine for long travel a lot. Given I drive only in sunshine and roof open, I do not share your view on the noise... I actually use the Bose system rarely, just listening to my standard (no “sunglass” button) engine and exhaust note.
And... I love my chocolate brown, full leather interieur (with dodgy creme white exterieur), it was secondary to the combination of 997.2 manual low mileage convertible - if you see this car as occassional car (I normally drive a nice Volvo T8 - no noise...) to enjoy some country road or cross continent joy machine. Then you nail it.
Oh. Right, they hold their value well. In the long run, that’s good for your buyers!
Glad you found the right one for you. Enjoy!
You give sound advice and at times make me laugh. Thank you 🤘🏾
Did u just call the exhaust button *with dual exhaust image* a button with sunglasses image 😂?
Haha yes I did. I thought that was funnier
Great review and a fair report. Love your reviews you get a real honest opinion. Happy New Year!
I don’t have many regrets but swapping my MY2004 997 for a MY2006 Aston Martin DB9 Manuel Convertible is one... yeah yeah yeah I hear, but honestly, the 997 was easier to drive and place on the road and just didn’t feel as “fragile” as the DB9. For sure, the Aston was gorgeous and the exhaust noise stunning.... I guess what I’m actually saying is I miss both...😄
The 997 is my favourite generation of the 911’s. Great video!
Cool, thanks!
A beautiful example, a great kick-off review in a beautiful winter backdrop 👍
For me, after my Euromillions win, a white on black, manual 997.2 Carrera 😁
I keep looking on autotrader hoping to be bitten by the bug but still not quite there yet... Maybe in time
‘Frunked off’ made me laugh out loud, the delivery was perfect. Phrase of the day right there! 👍
Haha thanks! I was pleased with that one
The thrill of the 911 is the unique way it’s drives by having the engine in the rear. They should always be 2 wheel drive, not 4. Options are for princesses, keep it basic.
I drove to Lake Como in my 996 with my wife and son (toddler). There was enough space, it was comfortable and fun, especially over the Italian passes. It’s never going to be practical like a SUV but who wants one of those. Happy New Year. Keep up the videos.
I bet that was a good road trip. Thanks for watching
997 for the way to Como AND the SUV for the family trip with the inlaws.... and all is well.
Try next time crossing Massif Central, Andorra to Barcelona - epic drive. Awesome roads, few people.
All the best with the Academy, hope it repays you for time and effort spent.
Thanks. All the best
Do I win a prize for spotting the deliberate typo on your course? At 0:54 on the right-hand-side of the screen "Over the last ten yours..."
Another great video mate, keep them coming...beatiful car.
I'm still going through it. I didnt want to delay the launch so there will be some typos. Cheers :)
Of course....Happy New Year!
Same to you!
You are so right about the 911 engine sound, Mat. I never understood the journalists praising its engine sound, even when they're talking about the GT3 with its 9k max RPM.
IHMO, it's just a noise, bordering on droning.
Yeah I agree. It’s very dry and raspy
Very enjoyable review. Reminds me of a 6000 mile Boxster I bought some years ago, a big expense for me at the time. I had to come to terms with the fact the car wasn't for me: no carrying space worth talking about and pointless going to and from work where I was lucky to do 50 for 2 minutes. Nice as a 3rd car toy for a successful plumber. but useless if its your only vehicle.
Hi Matt and congratulations 100,000 subs - well done mate.
Thanks 👍
I really enjoy your vids, sensible and real world analysis of each vehicle.I am a Merc fan ,Have an E class coupe 450 at the moment ,so liked your take on sl 55. Porsche 996 and 997,not so impressive . Keep up good work
Nice Car, and Nice Video...Very informative as always....Also you have a Very Nice Watch....Is that a Rolex Explorer on your wrist? Sorry to go off subject lol.
Thanks!
I'm kind of with you on this one, Matt. There are not many of us who can completely ignore day to day practicality. Even if you're just on a day out, you still need to take stuff. You'll just about be able to pack a picnic, a blanket and your manbag. Then there's the road noise, which came through loud and clear. Who wants that? Granted, I'm not exactly the target demographic for a Porsche 911 997 but I am of an age that can afford one. My boy racer days are well and truly behind me, so a 911 would just drive me crackers. Great Video, thank you. Oh, Happy to New Year to you, too.
Thanks! All the best
A brilliant perspective of the 911.
Not really overflowing with 911 knowledge but I hope it gives a bit of a summary
Great video, keep them rolling.
Thanks, will do!
Happy New Year to you too and all viewers etc. Just a few comments, I bought a 1990, 928 S4 back in 2001 which had an impeccable service history on it and was the 5 litre v8 model Auto as a second car with an E class diesel estate which was made in the stone age. They both felt as though they had been carved out of a solid block of metal, though with the Merc they did less carving and I am sure it just flattened bumps in the road and over 5 years the 928 cost me next to nothing to run with servicing only. 2015 I finally bought a car I had wanted since I was a kid, a 911 silver convertible 996.2 on a private plate. Had been well looked after with refurbed headlights, alloys, new clutch, dansk s/s exhaust and the "right" options at a decent price. Got the IMS bearing done and RMS etc and water pump the following year but the build quality was no where near the same somehow. Space in the back for the 928 was actually usable and with the hatch I got the drivers seat from the Merc in there to be re-sprung the 911 is very very limited. With the S/Steel exhaust they do sing well but you need the revs right up there to get the best sound, and performance for that matter. Somehow though I don't think they look special enough any more, with the old 928 kids and adults would stop and look at it and if I was near was often asked questions, with the 911 which I sold after 2 years and didn't lose any money on, no one showed a blind bit of interest. They are a great well developed car and I know a Chief Exec who buys the latest and greatest every few years with l the toys and he is a multi millionaire petrol head with about 8 cars and a Harley. Top and bottom of it is don't buy one without hiring one for a weekend to see if it hits the mark, oh one last thing, Hard braking on a 911, especially in the wet is a knack, don't mash the brake pedal like mad as the front ABS will go nuts gradual hard braking so you get good weight transference the 997 is 40% front 60% rear weight distribution and you usually rely on the front to do 70% of the braking older models were more rear biased around 65-35 Great video
Thanks for the info
As usual a fantastic review. I had to change my incontinance pads three times your costing me a bloody fortune. Seriously, great start for the new year and wishing you all the best in 2021.
Haha thanks. All the best
I've had a 911 TT 997 AND a 997 Targa 4S, both 2007 models......BOTH were worth every penny!! Awesome cars! Still have the aftermarket wheels I got though :(
Happy new year great video. Im with you, i want a 911 because I’m a petrol head, and its got to be on every petrol heads bucket list. But when i find one i like , i find i talk myself out of it, not enough room , too cramped, and your right about the noise, the rasping exhaust is great, but the tyre noise on a motorway is annoying, ive come to the conclusion owning a 911 impresses my friends more than it impresses me, having said that don’t be surprised if i buy one, a bucket list is a bucket list!
Yes that’s quite right. You’ve got to do what makes you happy
You never fail to deliver fella. May everything good find you, you deserve it.
Thanks!
Hi Matt, loving your channel mate. I started up selling cars myself a couple of years ago, it’s good watching how you did it. Keep up the good videos! 👍
Thanks! All the best
Fantastic channel can always rely on an honest review I have to say though I do lust after a 911
Thanks!
Good solid review of a solid car. I agree totally with your opinion and top jesting as well.
She is looking at a Panamera Turismo so a review soon would be timely 👌
Things look set for you to have a great new year and I hope the course flies off the shelves.
That way you will have more time to make content like this.😄
It’s about time I got a panamera on the channel
Hi Matt you forgot two things, Road presence and prestige, I love my Porker and would not swap it gold clock or a newer variant if I'm honest... they have a soul I have 2005 model.. Have a great new year. thanks for your You Tube content... Awesome.
Good choice! Thanks for watching. All the best
Happy new year to you, and I hope lots more videos come along. I can imagine your video academy is completely watchable and a labour of love , and as thorough as your channel content.
Thanks!
Love my 997.2 turbo timeless for sure
Love the reviews bud...talk a lot of sense regarding cars though you haven't convinced me about a 2005 range rover sport just yet...keep it up...
spot onMatt , this is a pure sports car! you could definitely feel the road etc cramped! etc. I've never owned a Porsche.. all older men driving 5 mph below the speed limit! by the time they sell these cars they are just broken in! the same way with a Mercedes! and they dropped in value to a point where stabilization occurs or slightly going up in value! r230 is perfect between sport and luxury. r231 is sport sport luxury, I just love your review, Matt
Good to see more VW Beetles on the channel, this is a nice one!
Happy New Year, Matt! I totally agree with you re the Porsche 911 whatever etc. Like you I prefer certain Jaguars, i.e. cars with (British) soul!
To be fair, I have no personal experience with Porsches, have not even been inside one...but my brother has. He told me he was thoroughly exhausted after a one-week long distance business trip as a passenger in an older 911. Too much noise, no comfort, cramped, bumpy etc.
My experience with a well sorted Jaguar, however, is quite different. I’ve driven many times between Bergen and Oslo, across the mountains in Norway. Even if I happened to be a bit tired after a full day in the office before I started, I was fully rested an happy on arrival about 7 hours later, after 500 km on the road. After a long drive like that in a Porsche I would be in great pain, but hopefully alive.....
Good luck your car dealer courses. I’m retired and wouldn’t qualify anyway.
Sports exhaust really finishes it. Sport mode is excellent, just turn off the suspension, you don’t need stiff(er) suspension on British roads. You have to consider the alternatives, they aren’t any. RS4 maybe, but the 911 looks amazing. Everyone knows it and compliments yuu & it. 997.1 is timeless.
Its amazing the different hps variants they can get from the same engine block.. 🔥👍😍👌
Me, geeky? How dare you!! Hi Matt, hope you are well. I love the 911. I lust after them. And I don't know all the models either. The thing that rattles me is the stupid road tax. Most of these cars, as you've pointed out before, are weekend cars, like my LS460. 200 quid insurance, 600 quid r/t. The r/t should be on the fuel cost, makes more sense to me. Most motoring orgs in uk have been calling for this for years. Being a w/e car means minimal miles, but we get punished for BIGg/km Co2 levels. If I did your course would that make me more geeky? Thanks for sharing. Stay safe and keep up the good work.
A honest car dealer that's very rare cheers buddy can you do a video on on MK1 X6 plZ
Hi Matt
Must admit I’ve stayed away from them , as in the wet ( which is most the time in the Uk ) it has all the stability of Steven Hawkins after a bottle of whiskey , and never fancied being woke up by the ambulance service in someone’s front garden 😛👍 so I’d save me money and by a range and offer a lift to someone in a 911 stuck at the bottom of a hill in the snow 😂😂🙏👍 happy new year mate and good luck in 2021 🇬🇧🙏👍
😂 Thanks for watching. All the best for the new year
One good thing about a National Trust membership, is that it sometimes reveals some fun country roads. The problem is that *other* National Trust members are also on them.
Hahaha yes quite right