Used car tests

Used Porsche 911 (997, 2004-2013) review

The Porsche 911 997 can be had second-hand from £20,000, here's everything you need to know when buying a used Porsche

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30 Oct 2013

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What to look for

• Don’t buy a 997 privately – especially an early one – without an inspection by an acknowledged expert. • Clutches last 50,000 miles if not hammered; on cars that are driven hard, a replacement can be needed much sooner.• The suspension is durable, although front bushes wear out eventually – especially on cars used a lot on a track.

PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) is worth having. It’s standard on the Carrera S. The Sport chassis lowers the car by 20mm and adds a limited-slip diff, but is best on the track. Sunroofs and a Bose stereo are popular options, as is the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) multimedia system.

The 3.8-litre engine provides greater thrills, but the 3.6-litre isn’t short of puff and is more durable. Tiptronic isn’t as slick as PDK, which is why the later autos are generally more sought after.

Recalls

The 997-generation 911 was recalled nine times between January 2006 and December 2012. Some affected only high-performance versions such as the Turbo, GT3 and GT2; others applied to the Carrera and Carrera S. Potential issues on the more common models have included split exhaust welds, failed parking brakes and a loss of steering.

On more specialised cars, there was a risk of the wheels coming off and the seatbelt buckle failing to open after an impact – this is on the GT3 and GT3 RS only.

Driver Power

Our view The 997-generation 911 came a lowly 45th in our Driver Power 2013 satisfaction survey, with the ride, practicality and running costs criticised. Yet its driver appeal shines through – it was first for braking and second for performance and handling.

Your view Reader Anthony Ward from Beckingham, Lincs, owns the 2005 Carrera S in our pictures. He says: “It’s more usable than my previous 911s. Practicality and quality are good, and running costs manageable; I use an independent specialist.”