The Porsche 911 is a wildly popular car, as we stated at the outset, and it makes sense. It hasn’t had a terrible iteration in more over 50 years. Having said that, you must be clear about your needs before buying a 911. You should buy a 911 (1964–1989), 930 (1975–1989), 964 (1990–1994), or 993 (1995–1998) if you want the authentic 911 formula that enthusiasts like.
The 911 (1964–1989), 930 (1975–1989), and 993 are the three greatest possibilities if you want to use the 911 as an investment (1995-1998). Now, if you’re looking to purchase a 911 on a tight budget, only the 996 comes to mind (1999-2004). Check out the 997 (2005-2011) or 991 for individuals who want a contemporary Porsche but are willing to pay more for better looks than the 996. (2012-2018). Finally, the 992 (2019-Present) is promising with a variety of configurations for those who seek the newest model.
Aside from retro appeal and other things, we advise the 2011 Carrera 997, the first model in the 991 series. With standard features and roughly 46k kilometers, these are available for a cool $50,000. That is almost half of what you would pay for a 2019 model year vehicle.
The fact that there were no complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) and only one recall supports our assessment of the 2011 model. The strut pin that may fracture and cause the strut to split from the vehicle is the cause of the recall, which has only so far affected 584 units.
What is the Porsche 911’s worst year? The 996 models (1999–2004) are the worst years of the 911, we have to concur with fans (yes, the non-circular headlights were the dealbreaker for us). Watch out for the 2002 model in particular, which had 13 complaints filed against it, three recalls, and an inquiry.
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More wise words from Ron:
- Since the 993 was the final model to use an air-cooled engine, it is also the best. By then, everything had been resolved.
- There were a few issues with early 964s, including as oil leaks, distributor troubles, and flywheel problems, but by this point, all of them ought to have been resolved.
- Great vehicles can be found in the final G Series (1984–89) models. Your best bet for dependability is anything made after 1984. The versions from 1987 to 1989 are the best of those because they had a better transmission.
The Best And Five Worst Porsche 911 Models Ever
Even though it’s undoubtedly the most well-known and adored, the Porsche 911 wasn’t always among the top sports cars available.
Porsche is one of those automakers that follows its own path. Japanese and German automakers like BMW and Audi both excel in the production of sports cars. Amazing pickup vehicles are made by companies like Ford, as are Chevy and Toyota. Every Ferrari has a Lamborghini counterpart. You see what I mean. The greatest, at least in their segment, is the level of refinement and class that Porsche offers to its vehicles. Porsche provides a more affordable portal into the world of exquisite luxury and performance than companies like Bentley or Rolls-Royce.
Porsche’s 911 series has contributed significantly to its prestige. They represent the standard sports vehicle lineup that we identify with Porsche. When Porsche unveiled the 911 in 1964, it cemented its reputation as a performance vehicle. The 911 automobiles evolved and de-evolved over time as the times changed, changing along with them. There have also been outside actors who have been attempting to reimagine the 911. All the positive aspects of the car have been improved by people like Singer and RUF, but today we are dedicating to Porsche’s Zuffenhausen facility in Stuttgart and the vehicles that came out of it alone. In 2017, they created over a million 911 automobiles, and we’ll examine the five greatest and the five worst.
911 Sport Classic Porsche (2012)
There were only 250 made, all of which were sold to collectors, and the Porsche 911 Sport Classic was created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Porsche 911. To honor classic 911s from the past, the Sport Classic receives aesthetic modifications including a ducktail spoiler and Fuchs alloy wheels.
The 402 horsepower of the 911 Sport Classic is a respectable amount of power. Speed is undoubtedly comparable to the Sport Classic, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of only 4.6 seconds. The Sport Classic combines them all into one fantastic package as a tribute to the best of the 911 lineage.
Porsche 930 Turbo, 1975–1989
Porsche unveiled the first 911 with a turbocharger in 1974. It was referred to as the Porsche 930 in America and the Porsche 911 Turbo in Europe. With broader wheel arches, larger wheels and tires, and a sizable rear “whale tail” spoiler, it stood out from other 911s. In 1978, it increased to a 3.3L engine with 300 horsepower after starting with a 3.0L engine with 260 hp. Only in 1989, the 930’s final year of manufacturing, was the gearbox five speeds. In 1990, a 964 model with the same 3.3L engine was introduced to take the place of the 930. Every 911 generation after that has included turbocharged versions.
For the whole time it was in production, the 930 Turbo served as Porsche’s top-of-the-line 911 model. Because it was the quickest production vehicle on the market, it immediately earned the nicknames “supercar beater” and “widowmaker.” Even experienced drivers found the 3.0 liter flat-260 six’s horsepower and tendency to oversteer to be quite the challenge. This makes our list because it gave birth to a whole generation of Porsche vehicles that we now like and because it was the first time Porsche really proved it could compete with Lamborghini and Ferrari.
One turbocharger significantly increased engine output. The 930 had an on-off switch, unlike the consistent, predictable performance of contemporary Porsche turbos. Everything was OK up until the crude turbo spooled up, at which point all hell broke out. Although the back engine configuration and unpredictable nature were frightening, people adored it (in a snap oversteer is scary and mind kill you kind of way of course).
The 930 is an epic example of automotive erotica, aside from its legendary handling qualities and turbo lag. Nearly everything else about the 930 Turbo makes this Porsche 911 breed excellent, including the whale tail, the large wheel arches, and the noise it generates.
Which Porsche 911 generation is the best?
Because it is the newest and best 911, the Porsche 992 ranks in the top 3. It has many advantages, but only time will tell if it becomes a classic like the vehicles mentioned above. There are numerous models and two transmissions—a 7-speed manual transmission and an 8-speed PDK dual clutch transmission—to choose from (yes thats right, 7). The non-turbo engines have a horsepower range of 380 to 450, but if you choose a turbocharged engine, that range can increase to 641 horsepower.
What were the Porsche 911’s worst years?
Only the 1983 and 2009 models of the Porsche 911 should be avoided out of the more than 50 years’ worth of models.
According to reports, the 1983 Porsche 911 may experience head bolt problems after only 40,000 kilometers. The model from 2009 would be the worst choice because more issues have been recorded with it than any other model. This includes hoses that stall or leak.
The best approach to purchase a car is through the CoPilot app. We’ll show you all you need to know about each listing, including how long it’s been on the lot and whether or not there are comparable cars in the area for less money, thanks to technology developed using that used by dealerships.
What Porsche 911 is the least coveted?
The 996 was the first of the Boxster-related 911s with water cooling. It has been the least desirable 911 generation for a while, and pricing have reflected this
Are Porsche 911s dependable vehicles?
According to the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), which was just issued, the Porsche 911 is the model with the best ownership experience. The sports car legend won the study’s top prize for the third time in the last four years, making this the second year in a row that it had done so. In the category of Upper Midsize Premium SUVs, the Porsche Cayenne was rated as the most trustworthy vehicle.
As we persistently focus on meeting and, ideally, exceeding the expectations of our consumers, it is pleasant to see the efforts of so many colleagues, both here in the United States and in Germany, said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America, Inc. “The top rankings this year for the Porsche 911 and the Cayenne reflect our commitment to designing and delivering exciting vehicles that their owners can rely on, drive after drive,” the company said.
The 33-year-old study counts the problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) that three-year-old automobiles’ original owners encountered in the previous year. A lower rating indicates greater dependability. The research for this year used automobiles from the 2019 model year.
The Porsche 911 had the fewest PP100 of any model across the whole automobile industry with 94. Porsche finished third overall among luxury brands.
Is the Porsche 911 a trustworthy car?
In the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), which was announced today, the Porsche 911 receives the highest score for trouble-free ownership. This was the third time in the last four years that the iconic sports car won the study’s top prize, making it two years in a row. In its class of Upper Midsize Premium SUVs, the Porsche Cayenne received the highest reliability rating.
Kjell Gruner, president and chief executive officer of Porsche Cars North America, Inc., said: “It is rewarding to see the labor of so many colleagues, both here in the U.S. and in Germany, being recognized as we relentlessly focus on meeting and hopefully exceeding the expectations of our customers. “This year’s top rankings for the Porsche 911 and the Cayenne illustrate our commitment to designing and delivering exhilarating vehicles that its owners can rely on, drive after drive.”
The 33-year-old study counts the problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) that the first owners of three-year-old vehicles faced over the course of the previous year. Higher reliability is indicated by a lower score. The study conducted this year used automobiles from the 2019 model year.
With 94 PP100, the Porsche 911 has the fewest of any model in the whole automobile industry. In terms of luxury brands, Porsche came in third.
Which Porsche requires the least maintenance?
The annual cost of maintaining some Porsches should be between $200 and $600 to be reasonable and affordable. Taxes, fuel, and bodywork repairs are not included. The price may exceed $1,000 if you take it to Porsche or Porsche-approved businesses.
One of the less expensive Porsches to maintain is the Boxster. If you continue receiving regular annual services over a ten-year period, the cost is between $550 and $700 annually.
Some of the fixes you might need to do are listed below. Additionally, costs will change based on your location, the age of the model, and whether you are taking it to a Porsche service center or a neighborhood mechanic.
In place of:
- Sensor for Cam Shaft Position
- Control Body
- Joint Ball
- assembly of the CV axle/shaft
- the control arm assembly
- Assembly of Struts
- Oil Pan and Gaskets for the Oil Pan
- Bulb Headlights
- hose under the power steering
- Spiking plugs
You must also complete the following:
cooling system cleaning
Which Porsche 911 offers the best level of comfort?
The steering configuration of the most recent 911 makes it far more comfortable than previous models on highways. It feels as though you could whisper to your passenger while driving in seventh gear on a smooth surface because to how refined the comfort-spec versions are. However, lighter variants like the Carrera T have less soundproofing, which results in audible tire roar at highway speeds. The base Carrera model boasts a smooth ride for a sports car, and thanks to the included adaptive dampers, you can adjust the ride stiffness to suit your driving preferences.
Given its outrageous appearance and even more outrageous performance, the GT3 is still amazingly comfortable on lengthy trips. It is true that its strong suspension jars over urban potholes, but this only lasts a short distance before smoothing out and settling down on the freeway. The bucket seats are comfortable even for extended periods of time behind the wheel, as befits a vehicle that has an endurance-racing mentality.