
When the Porsche 997 Turbo debuted in 2006, it marked a major evolution in Porsche’s flagship 911 Turbo lineage. Because the successor to the 996 Turbo, the 997 Turbo was a mix of contemporary developments and Porsche’s timeless strategy to high-performance engineering.
It wasn’t simply one other iteration—it was a press release. The 997 Turbo launched new expertise, higher aerodynamics, and driving expertise, making the Turbo as some of the succesful and well-rounded supercars of its period.
On the coronary heart of the 997 Turbo was a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, an evolution of the legendary Mezger engine identified for its sturdiness, motorsport pedigree, and immense tuning potential. Producing 480 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque (502 lb-ft with overboost from the Sport Chrono Package deal), it delivered quick acceleration.
With the elective Tiptronic S transmission, 0-60 mph was achieved in simply 3.4 seconds, making it one of many quickest vehicles in its class on the time. In 2010, the up to date 997.2 Turbo launched a bigger 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six, delivering 500 hp, and the Turbo S variant pushed it even additional to 530 hp with normal PDK and ceramic brakes.
The outside design of the 997 Turbo maintained the basic 911 silhouette whereas incorporating purposeful aerodynamic parts. The entrance fascia featured bigger air intakes, built-in LED daytime operating lights (on the 997.2), and an lively rear spoiler that adjusted for stability at excessive speeds. Broad rear fenders housed the all-wheel-drive system, giving the automobile its signature widebody stance. Light-weight center-lock wheels grew to become normal on the Turbo S.
Inside, the 997 Turbo’s cabin got here with high-quality leather-based upholstery, complemented by elective carbon fiber or aluminum trim accents. Porsche’s PCM infotainment system developed through the years, with the 997.2 fashions benefiting from a touchscreen interface, improved navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Turbo S got here absolutely loaded with adaptive sport seats, prolonged leather-based, and unique badging, reinforcing its place because the top-tier 997 Turbo variant.
All through its manufacturing run, the 997 Turbo confronted competitors from a few of the most revered supercars of its time, together with the Nissan GT-R, Audi R8 V10, and the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (C6). But, the 997 Turbo remained a benchmark for its mix of all-weather usability, excessive efficiency, and timeless Porsche engineering, securing its place as some of the fascinating 911 Turbos ever constructed.
Mannequin Modifications (Breakdown by 12 months)
2007 Porsche 997 Turbo
For the 2007 mannequin 12 months, the Porsche 997 Turbo made its official debut within the U.S. market, providing a Turbo Coupe as the only physique model.
Powering the automobile was a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six Mezger engine, delivering 480 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, with the elective Sport Chrono Package deal quickly boosting torque to 502 lb-ft. Patrons had the selection between a 6-speed guide transmission or a 5-speed Tiptronic S automated, the latter enabling faster acceleration occasions, reaching 0-60 mph in simply 3.4 seconds with Sport Chrono bundle, in comparison with 3.7 seconds with the guide.
The 997 Turbo was the primary manufacturing gasoline automobile to characteristic Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) turbochargers, bettering throttle response and effectivity. The automobile got here normal with all-wheel drive (AWD), Porsche Lively Suspension Administration (PASM), and lively aerodynamics, together with a retractable rear spoiler and adjustable cooling vents.
Optionally available Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) have been accessible for enhanced stopping energy, making the 997 Turbo some of the superior and succesful supercars of its time.
In 2007, the Porsche 911 Turbo (997.1) was launched to the market with a beginning worth of $122,900 for the Turbo Coupe. The Tiptronic S automated transmission was accessible as an possibility for a further $3,420.
2008 Porsche 997 Turbo
For 2008, Porsche expanded the 997.1 Turbo lineup with the introduction of the Turbo Cabriolet, providing an open-top driving expertise.
The brand new soft-top, power-folding roof maintained the coupe’s structural rigidity, making certain that the Cabriolet delivered practically similar efficiency figures.
Outfitted with the Tiptronic S transmission, it may speed up from 0-60 mph in simply 3.5 seconds, matching the hardtop’s functionality.
Prime pace remained at 193 mph, additional proving that the Cabriolet was each bit as fast as its coupe counterpart.
In 2008, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a beginning worth of $126,200, whereas the newly launched Turbo Cabriolet variant began at $136,500.
2009 Porsche 997 Turbo
Within the 2009 mannequin 12 months, the Porsche 997.1 Turbo acquired refined enhancements to its inside and exterior aesthetics. Inside, Porsche supplied elective wooden trim upgrades, permitting homeowners to personalize their automobiles with luxurious supplies comparable to wooden veneers and brushed aluminum finishes.
These upgrades encompassed varied parts, together with the dashboard, heart console, and door panels, offering a extra refined and customised cabin expertise.
Externally, the 2009 997.1 Turbo featured new wheel designs, providing homeowners extra decisions to tailor the automobile’s look to their preferences. These choices included the basic 5-spoke design, identified for its steadiness of simplicity and aggression, and the Sport Design wheels, characterised by a 15-spoke structure that mixed aesthetic enchantment with purposeful efficiency.
In 2009, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a beginning worth of $132,145, whereas the Turbo Cabriolet variant began at $142,150.
2010 Porsche 997 Turbo
For 2010, Porsche launched the 997.2 Turbo, a significant mid-cycle refresh that introduced important efficiency, expertise, and design enhancements.
The Turbo Coupe and Turbo Cabriolet returned, now powered by a brand new 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six, marking the primary time Porsche’s Turbo engine featured direct gas injection. This improve resulted in 500 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, with the elective Sport Chrono Package deal quickly boosting torque to 516 lb-ft.
One of the notable adjustments was the alternative of the 5-speed Tiptronic S with the extra superior 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, considerably bettering shift pace and effectivity. A 6-speed guide was nonetheless accessible for purists. With PDK and Sport Chrono, the 997.2 Turbo may speed up from 0-60 mph in simply 3.2 seconds, reaching a high pace of 194 mph.
The outside acquired revised entrance and rear bumpers, new LED daytime operating lights, and up to date taillights, modernizing its look. A lighter, extra environment friendly AWD system improved dealing with, whereas a brand new titanium-aluminum turbocharger enhanced responsiveness. Moreover, Launch Management grew to become normal with PDK, and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) was accessible as an possibility, additional refining the automobile’s dynamic capabilities.
In 2010, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a beginning worth of $132,800, whereas the Turbo Cabriolet variant began at $143,800.
2011 Porsche 997 Turbo
For 2011, Porsche launched the 997.2 Turbo S, an much more potent model of the already spectacular 997.2 Turbo, accessible in each Coupe and Cabriolet physique types.
The Turbo S was designed as the last word factory-spec 911 Turbo, that includes an uprated 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six producing 530 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque with overboost. Not like the usual Turbo, the Turbo S got here solely with Porsche’s 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, eliminating the guide possibility however enabling a blistering 0-60 mph time of simply 2.9 seconds and a high pace of 196 mph.
The Turbo S additionally got here absolutely loaded with performance-enhancing options that have been elective on the usual Turbo, together with Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), the Sport Chrono Package deal, dynamic engine mounts, and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV).
It additionally featured center-lock wheels for a race-inspired aesthetic and an inside trimmed in premium leather-based, carbon fiber accents, and Alcantara.
In 2011, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a beginning worth of $137,500, whereas the Turbo Cabriolet variant began at $148,300. The upper-performance Turbo S Coupe started at $160,700, and the Turbo S Cabriolet was priced at $172,100.
2012 Porsche 997 Turbo
For 2012, the Porsche 997.2 Turbo and Turbo S continued unchanged, marking the ultimate full manufacturing 12 months of the 997 Turbo lineup earlier than the introduction of the 991-generation 911 Turbo.
In 2012, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a beginning worth of $137,500, whereas the Turbo Cabriolet was priced at $148,300. The upper-performance Turbo S Coupe began at $160,700, and the Turbo S Cabriolet was listed at $172,100.
2013 Porsche 997 Turbo
For 2013, the Porsche 997 Turbo lineup entered its ultimate 12 months of gross sales, with restricted manufacturing as Porsche phased out the mannequin in favor of the upcoming 991-generation Turbo. One notable launch was the 997 Turbo S 918 Spyder Version, an unique particular version accessible solely to Porsche 918 Spyder patrons, that includes distinctive badging and premium inside trim.
Past this, remaining stock of the 997 Turbo and Turbo S fashions was offered off earlier than the 991 Turbo formally took its place, marking the top of an period for one among Porsche’s most celebrated 911 Turbo generations.
The beginning worth for the Turbo S Version 918 Spyder was $160,700.
Porsche 997 Turbo Widespread Issues
The Porsche 997 Turbo is a dependable, high-performance sports activities automobile that mixes driving pleasure with on a regular basis usability and luxury. Over time, many 911 Turbos have been used as each day drivers, accumulating excessive mileage whereas nonetheless sustaining their reliability and efficiency.
This breaks the standard perception that supercars are inherently unreliable.
Nonetheless, it’s important to needless to say all vehicles, even supercars, can have points and it’s essential to carry out a Pre-Buy Inspection (PPI) from a certified vendor or skilled unbiased mechanic to disclose all points.
Coolant Pipe Corrosion: The alloy connector cups within the coolant pipes are susceptible to corrosion, which might result in leaks. In extreme circumstances, addressing this difficulty could require engine elimination.
Water Pump Put on: Over time, the water pump could start to weep or leak, indicating bearing put on. Early detection and alternative are essential to stop overheating.
Tandem Oil Pump Corrosion: The duvet of the tandem oil pump can corrode, doubtlessly main to grease leaks. Common inspections may help determine this difficulty earlier than it turns into extreme.
Coil Pack and Spark Plug Deterioration: Neglecting the coil packs and spark plugs can lead to misfires and decreased engine efficiency. Changing these parts might be labor-intensive because of their location.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks: The exhaust manifolds are inclined to splitting, which might result in exhaust leaks and potential MOT failures. Addressing this difficulty is advisable throughout spark plug alternative.
Turbocharger Corrosion: Though much less frequent, corrosion of the turbo models can happen, resulting in efficiency points and dear repairs. Some homeowners go for hybrid turbo upgrades as an answer.
Radiator Blockage and Corrosion: Particles accumulation within the entrance intakes may cause radiator corrosion and decreased cooling effectivity. Common cleansing of those areas is advisable to keep up optimum efficiency.
Air Conditioning Condenser Leaks: The air-con condensers are susceptible to leakage, which might impair the system’s performance. Changing these parts is a comparatively easy and cost-effective course of.
Brake System Put on: The usual metal brakes could exhibit put on over time, affecting braking efficiency. Upgrading to Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) can improve braking effectivity however at a better price.
Camshaft Place Sensor Failure (P0021 Code): A identified difficulty the place the camshaft place sensor fails, triggering the P0021 error code. This may have an effect on engine timing and efficiency, requiring immediate consideration.
Remembers
2009 Porsche 997 Turbo automobiles
Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) Turbocharger Lubrication (Recall no. W902)
This marketing campaign addressed the lubrication of the Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) turbochargers to stop potential seizing. The process concerned making use of lubricant to the VTG mechanisms and was carried out at approved Porsche facilities.
Upkeep and Possession Prices
Compared to different supercars, the Porsche 997 Turbo is thought for its comparatively minimal upkeep wants.
Nonetheless, you will need to keep in mind that common upkeep and repairs will nonetheless be mandatory, and the prices can range relying on whether or not you’re taking your automobile to a vendor or an unbiased mechanic.
Listed here are the advised service schedule and intervals per Porsche:
Annual Upkeep or Each 10,000 Miles:
Along with the annual service, carry out the next upkeep duties based mostly on the desired time or mileage intervals:
Extra Upkeep Each 20,000 Miles or 2 Years:
Extra Upkeep Each 30,000 Miles or 4 Years:
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Substitute spark plugs
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Substitute tire sealant
Extra Upkeep Each 60,000 Miles or 6 Years:
Extra Upkeep Each 120,000 Miles or 12 Years:
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Substitute guide transmission oil
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Substitute PDK transmission oil (on 997.2 Turbo)
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Substitute entrance differential oil
Here’s a tough estimate of typical service prices related to the Porsche 997 Turbo:
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Oil Change – An oil change for the 997 Turbo sometimes prices between $200 and $400 at a dealership, relying on the kind of oil and labor charges. Unbiased retailers could provide this service for $100 to $200.
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Minor Service – Minor companies, together with oil adjustments, filter replacements, and inspections, usually price between $200 and $400 at each dealerships and unbiased retailers.
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Main Service – Main companies, encompassing complete inspections, spark plug replacements, and fluid adjustments, can vary from $1,000 to $2,500 at dealerships. Unbiased retailers could cost between $800 and $1,500 for related companies.
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Tires – A set of 4 high-performance tires such because the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, sometimes prices between $1,200 and $2,000, relying on the model and specs. Set up charges could range between dealerships and unbiased retailers.
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Brakes – Changing brake pads and rotors on all 4 corners can price between $900 and $1,800, relying on whether or not OEM or aftermarket elements are used.
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Clutch – Clutch alternative is a labor-intensive course of, with prices sometimes starting from $1,500 to $2,500, relying on elements and labor charges.
Choices Record
When contemplating the Porsche 997 Turbo, understanding the accessible choices is essential to tailoring the automobile to your preferences. The Sport Chrono Package deal Turbo enhances efficiency with dynamic engine mounts, a SPORT button that sharpens throttle response, and an overboost operate that quickly will increase torque for stronger acceleration.
Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) provide superior braking efficiency with decreased unsprung weight, bettering dealing with and stopping energy, although they arrive at a major price over normal metal brakes.
For exterior options, the electrical slide/tilt sunroof gives an open-air driving expertise with out compromising the coupe’s structural rigidity. Park Help makes use of sensors embedded within the rear bumper to alert drivers of obstacles, making parking in tight areas simpler.
The windscreen with gray high tint reduces glare from direct daylight, enhancing visibility on brilliant days. Porsche Dynamic Cornering Lights regulate the headlight beam based mostly on steering enter, bettering nighttime driving by illuminating turns extra successfully.
Inside, heated seats can be found for each the motive force and passenger, making the cabin extra snug in chilly climate. Adaptive sport seats present enhanced lateral help for spirited driving whereas sustaining long-distance consolation. The Bose Sound System delivers a high-end audio expertise with upgraded audio system and a devoted amplifier, making certain premium sound high quality throughout the cabin.
With these choices, the 997 Turbo might be configured to go well with a wide range of driving types, whether or not targeted on observe efficiency, each day consolation, or high-end luxurious. Patrons in search of essentially the most partaking expertise typically go for Sport Chrono and PCCB, whereas these prioritizing consolation could want options like adaptive seats and Bose audio.
2007 Porsche 997 Turbo choices checklist
2010 Porsche 997.2 Turbo choices checklist
Key Choices
The Greatest Porsche 997 Turbo to Purchase
Relating to selecting the most effective Porsche 997 Turbo, a number of key components must be thought of, together with mannequin 12 months updates, accessible choices, and general car situation.
For these in search of the most effective model of the 997 Turbo, the 2012 mannequin 12 months is a perfect selection. As the ultimate full manufacturing 12 months of the 997.2 Turbo, it advantages from all of the refinements made all through its manufacturing run, together with the three.8-liter twin-turbocharged engine with direct gas injection, PDK dual-clutch transmission, and improved all-wheel-drive system.
Moreover, the Turbo S variant, accessible from 2011 to 2013, is the highest-performing manufacturing facility model, that includes 530 hp, normal Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), and center-lock wheels.
In any other case, for non Turbo S fashions, go for one with a guide transmission. Though it was an elective additional for the tiptronic transmission, it’s merely not fascinating and sometimes go for a lot much less cash than one with a guide. Additionally, the non Turbo S vehicles that have been spec’d with the elective Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) are a fascinating possibility and you may inform as a result of they got here with manufacturing facility
By way of market stability, 2007 to 2012 fashions are a strong selection for hacking, supplied you discover a clear, well-maintained instance.
Along with deciding on the appropriate mannequin 12 months, the situation and mileage of the automobile are essential components. A well-maintained 997 Turbo with full-service historical past and documented upkeep is not going to solely present higher reliability but in addition maintain its worth extra successfully.
Provided that many of those vehicles have been pushed onerous, in search of examples with common oil adjustments, clear coolant programs, and correctly serviced PDK or guide transmissions is important.
Conclusion
In abstract, with a beginning worth of round $88,000+, the Porsche 997 Turbo stays a compelling selection for these in search of a high-performance sports activities automobile with on a regular basis usability. It presents a balanced mixture of energy, precision, and all-wheel-drive functionality, making it some of the versatile 911 Turbos ever produced.
Whereas alternate options just like the Nissan GT-R, Audi R8 V10, and Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 provide robust competitors, the 997 Turbo stands out with its Mezger-derived engine (997.1), direct-injection developments (997.2), and timeless 911 design.
For these in search of a daily-drivable supercar with a powerful long-term worth, the Porsche 997 Turbo is a wonderful match.
Automotive Hacking Shortcuts
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Goal 997.2 fashions (2010–2013) for improved reliability, direct gas injection, and PDK transmission for quicker shifts and higher efficiency
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Go for the Turbo S variant (2011–2013) for increased horsepower, normal Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), and higher long-term worth
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Search for well-maintained examples with full service historical past, particularly these with documented coolant pipe updates, turbo upkeep, and transmission servicing
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Guide transmission fashions are fascinating
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Keep away from uncared for or closely modified examples
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Manufacturing unit choices like Sport Chrono, Adaptive Sport Seats, and PCCB can enhance desirability and resale worth
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Larger-mileage vehicles can nonetheless be a very good purchase if main companies like clutch replacements, turbo servicing, and suspension work have already been accomplished