The Porsche 911 is a sports car icon, but choosing a used one can be a minefield of model codes and generational changes. Two of the most significant and accessible modern-era 911s are the 996 (1997-2003) and the 997 (2004-2011).
The 996 was a landmark car, introducing water-cooling to the 911 for the first time and bringing the car's design into the new millennium, complete with its controversial "fried egg" headlights. The 997 that followed was an evolution, refining the formula with a return to classic round headlights, a higher-quality interior, and more power. Both offer the quintessential rear-engined driving experience, but which generation makes the smarter used buy?
Porsche 911 996 vs Porsche 911 997
Practicality
Porsche 911 996 Review (1997-2003) practicality score: 3/5
Porsche 911 997 Review (2004-2011) practicality score: 3/5
For a focused sports car, any 911 is a surprisingly usable machine. Both the 996 and 997 are relatively compact, making them easy to place on the road and navigate through towns. The classic 2+2 seating layout features two small rear seats that are best reserved for children or for use as extra luggage space.
Up front, there's a decent amount of room for two adults, and the boot – located in the nose of the car – offers around 130 litres of space, which is enough for a weekend away. The 997's interior feels a step up in quality and design, with better materials and a more modern layout than the slightly sparse 996 cabin. However, in terms of pure space and usability, there's little to separate the two generations, making it a dead heat for practicality.
Driving Impressions
Porsche 911 996 Review (1997-2003) driving score: 5/5
Porsche 911 997 Review (2004-2011) driving score: 5/5
This is what buying a 911 is all about. The 996 was a huge leap forward, taming some of the wilder handling traits of older 911s while retaining an agile and communicative feel. Its steering is nicely weighted, the chassis is balanced, and the howling flat-six engine provides a soundtrack that is pure Porsche. It delivers a modern and engaging driving experience that connects you to the road.
The 997 refines this package further. The steering is sublime, and the suspension gives it even more poise and control, making it a confidence-inspiring car to drive quickly on a challenging road. A range of powerful naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines means there's a 997 to suit any performance appetite. For the ultimate thrill, track-focused GT3 models of both generations offer a raw, race-bred experience. Both cars are exceptional to drive, earning top marks.
Technology and Equipment
Porsche 911 996 Review (1997-2003) technology and equipment score: 4/5
Porsche 911 997 Review (2004-2011) technology and equipment score: 4/5
Given their age, neither the 996 nor the 997 can compete with modern cars for in-car tech. Both came with the essentials like air-conditioning and electric windows, and many were specified from new with options like leather upholstery and upgraded stereos.
The factory-fitted infotainment systems, however, are very dated. Most came with a basic CD player and radio, with optional satellite navigation systems that are clunky to use by today's standards. The 997 had more modern features available, such as Bluetooth, but it's still a product of its time. The good news is that Porsche itself offers a solution. The Porsche Classic Communication Management (PCCM) system is a modern touchscreen unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that can be retrofitted seamlessly into the dashboards of both cars, bringing their tech right up to date.
Running Costs
Porsche 911 996 Review (1997-2003) running costs score: 2/5
Porsche 911 997 Review (2004-2011) running costs score: 2/5
Owning a Porsche 911 is not a cheap proposition. Fuel economy will likely hover in the low-20s mpg, and performance-oriented parts like tyres and brakes carry a premium price tag. Servicing at a main dealer or a trusted specialist is essential, but it isn't cheap.
More significantly, both the 996 and early 997 models have some well-documented potential engine issues. Problems like a failing intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing and cylinder bore scoring can lead to catastrophic engine failure and bills running into the thousands. While the risks can be overstated, they are real. For this reason, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by an independent Porsche specialist is absolutely essential. It's the most important money you'll spend. Because of these potential high-cost repairs, both cars score poorly for running costs.
The Verdict
Porsche 911 996 Review (1997-2003) Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3/5
Porsche 911 997 Review (2004-2011) Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3/5
Choosing between these two generations of Porsche 911 is tough, as both offer an incredible driving experience and surprising usability. The 997 is undoubtedly the more modern, refined, and aesthetically pleasing car for many, with its higher-quality interior and classic round headlights.
It'd be our pick. but the choice might just as much come down to your budget and personal taste. The 996 represents a more affordable entry point into 911 ownership and is starting to be appreciated as a modern classic. The 997 costs more but offers a more sophisticated package. Whichever you choose, get a specialist inspection, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the greatest sports cars ever made.
Porsche 911 996 Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More affordable entry to 911 ownership | Controversial "fried egg" headlights |
| Engaging and analogue driving feel | Known engine issues (IMS bearing) |
| Good examples are appreciating in value | Interior feels dated and less premium |
Porsche 911 997 Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Classic 911 styling with round headlights | More expensive to buy than a 996 |
| Higher quality, more modern interior | Early models can still suffer engine issues |
| Refined yet thrilling driving dynamics | Factory infotainment is very outdated |
*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.