Porsche 996 Turbo vs 997 Turbo: Twin-Turbo 911 Comparison

Comparison

997 Turbo

n=314 sold12-mo +14.2%

Avg Price

$106k

Range

$55k – $180k

Avg Mileage

42,012

Manual Premium

+44%

Avg Bids

37

996 Turbo

n=313 sold12-mo +25.5%

Avg Price

$76k

Range

$39k – $143k

Avg Mileage

51,869

Manual Premium

+70%

Avg Bids

32

997 Turbo S

n=47 sold

Avg Price

$123k

Range

$79k – $216k

Avg Mileage

37,622

Avg Bids

44

How to Choose

• Both use the Mezger engine, so reliability isn't a differentiator. Buy either with confidence.
• The 996 Turbo is 20-30% cheaper and nearly as fast. It's the value play.
• The 997 Turbo manual is the consensus 'best modern Turbo' among enthusiasts, with strong investment potential.
• The 997 Turbo S adds 30hp, PCCB brakes, and sport seats. It commands a meaningful premium.
• The X50 package on the 996 Turbo adds 35hp (415 to 450) and larger turbos. Highly desirable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 997 Turbo worth the premium over the 996 Turbo?

If budget allows, yes. The 997 Turbo offers more power, better styling, improved interior, and optional PDK. But the 996 Turbo at $60K-$80K is arguably the best value in the entire 911 range. It's a genuine supercar for sports car money.

Do the 996 and 997 Turbo have IMS issues?

No. Both use the Mezger engine, which has a different bearing design and no IMS concerns whatsoever. This is one of the biggest advantages of buying a Turbo over a Carrera in these generations.

Which is a better investment, 996 or 997 Turbo?

The 997 Turbo manual has the strongest investment trajectory. The 996 Turbo has more upside potential given its lower current prices. Both are likely to appreciate as Mezger-engine, twin-turbo 911s with finite supply.

How fast is a 996 Turbo?

The 996 Turbo does 0-60 in about 4.0 seconds and tops out at 190 mph, stock. With modest tuning, it can easily hit 500+ hp. It was faster than a Ferrari 360 when new and cost less.

Manual or PDK for a 997 Turbo?

For investment, manual without question. Manual 997 Turbos command roughly a 40% premium in our data. For daily driving, PDK is brilliant and makes the car more accessible in traffic. Both are excellent choices for different reasons.