Skip advert
Advertisement

Porsche 911

Few cars can boast a reputation as legendary as that of the 911. It is and always has been one of the world's most desirable supercars. But in 1997, Porsche gave the model its most thorough revamp to date, in the form of the car codenamed 996.

Few cars can boast a reputation as legendary as that of the 911. It is and always has been one of the world's most desirable supercars. But in 1997, Porsche gave the model its most thorough revamp to date, in the form of the car codenamed 996.
Ditching earlier quirks such as ancient interior design and an air-cooled engine, the firm upset purists by turning the 911 into more of a grand tourer. But it is a safer-handling machine that's easier to live with every day.
Choosing a used 911 is not for the faint-hearted, with steep running costs and high prices. We advise a thorough inspection and dealer warranty if available. Nevertheless, a 911 will reward you like nothing else, even when selling on.
Checklist
* Trim: pre-'99 cars had dubious build quality, with lots of trim rattles. Belt and airbag warning lights can have dodgy connections, and coolant warnings flicker.
* Suspension: front set-up prone to squeaks, caused by water getting in the ball joints - ultimately requiring a new wishbone at £500. Check steering geometry, too.
* Engine: leaking gaskets on early cars can mean an engine rebuild, but most have been replaced under warranty. Ensure model has the later modified rear main oil seal.
* Gearbox: notchy from cold, but check the clutch on early cars - they often self-destruct. Synchromeshes wear with mileage, and transmissions have been known to fail. A warranty is advisable.
* Specification: the wrong spec can seriously affect resale value - so stick to popular colours, manual box and coup

Verdict

The new 911 has changed a great deal, and enthusiasts can argue on and on about whether or not it's better as a result. But the fact is, if the Porsche didn't change, it wouldn't survive in any form beyond the early 21st century. The new car is smoother both to the eye and from the best seat in the house - the driver's. The old model may have been the ultimate sports car, but its replacement, in bowing to compromises, should attract new fans. The magic lives on...

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Porsche 911

Porsche 911

RRP £80,136Used from £79,995
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,690Avg. savings £4,685 off RRP*Used from £16,811
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,038 off RRP*Used from £13,218
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £11,995
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Have you considered?

Used MINI Convertible (Mk3, 2014-2024) buyer’s guide: cheap fun in the sun
Used MINI Convertible Mk3 - front

Used MINI Convertible (Mk3, 2014-2024) buyer’s guide: cheap fun in the sun

Used car tests
6 Jul 2025
Porsche 911 review
Porsche 911 - main image

Porsche 911 review

In-depth reviews
21 Mar 2025

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!
Skoda Octavia vRS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!

A three-time Auto Express Family Car of the Year winner, paired with Golf GTI power, is our Deal of the Day for 6 July
News
6 Jul 2025
New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life
Volvo XC60 facelift - front tracking

New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life

This refreshed Swedish SUV focuses on familiar areas of strength to take on BMW and Audi
Road tests
4 Jul 2025