Porsche 997 Turbo Buyers Guide

When the Porsche 997 Turbo debuted in 2006, it marked a significant evolution in Porsche’s flagship 911 Turbo lineage. As the successor to the 996 Turbo, the 997 Turbo was a blend of modern advancements and Porsche’s timeless approach to high-performance engineering.

 It wasn’t just another iteration—it was a statement. The 997 Turbo introduced new technology, better aerodynamics, and driving experience, making the Turbo as one of the most capable and well-rounded supercars of its era.

At the heart of the 997 Turbo was a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, an evolution of the legendary Mezger engine known for its durability, 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), it delivered fast acceleration. 

With the optional Tiptronic S transmission, 0-60 mph was achieved in just 3.4 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars in its class at the time. In 2010, the updated 997.2 Turbo introduced a larger 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six, delivering 500 hp, and the Turbo S variant pushed it even further to 530 hp with standard PDK and ceramic brakes.

The exterior design of the 997 Turbo maintained the classic 911 silhouette while incorporating functional aerodynamic elements. The front fascia featured larger air intakes, integrated LED daytime running lights (on the 997.2), and an active rear spoiler that adjusted for stability at high speeds. Wide rear fenders housed the all-wheel-drive system, giving the car its signature widebody stance. Lightweight center-lock wheels became standard on the Turbo S.

Inside, the 997 Turbo’s cabin came with high-quality leather upholstery, complemented by optional carbon fiber or aluminum trim accents. Porsche’s PCM infotainment system evolved over the years, with the 997.2 models benefiting from a touchscreen interface, improved navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. 

The Turbo S came fully loaded with adaptive sport seats, extended leather, and exclusive badging, reinforcing its position as the top-tier 997 Turbo variant.

Throughout its production run, the 997 Turbo faced competition from some of the most respected supercars of its time, including the Nissan GT-R, Audi R8 V10, and the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (C6). Yet, the 997 Turbo remained a benchmark for its blend of all-weather usability, extreme performance, and timeless Porsche engineering, securing its place as one of the most desirable 911 Turbos ever built.

Model Changes (Breakdown by Year)

2007 Porsche 997 Turbo

For the 2007 model year, the Porsche 997 Turbo made its official debut in the U.S. market, offering a Turbo Coupe as the sole body style. 

Powering the car was a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six Mezger engine, delivering 480 hp  and 460 lb-ft of torque, with the optional Sport Chrono Package temporarily boosting torque to 502 lb-ft. Buyers had the choice between a 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed Tiptronic S automatic, the latter enabling quicker acceleration times, achieving 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds with Sport Chrono package, compared to 3.7 seconds with the manual. 

The 997 Turbo was the first production gasoline car to feature Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) turbochargers, improving throttle response and efficiency. The car came standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), and active aerodynamics, including a retractable rear spoiler and adjustable cooling vents. 

Optional Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) were available for enhanced stopping power, making the 997 Turbo one of the most advanced and capable supercars of its time.

In 2007, the Porsche 911 Turbo (997.1) was introduced to the market with a starting price of $122,900 for the Turbo Coupe. The Tiptronic S automatic transmission was available as an option for an additional $3,420.

2008 Porsche 997 Turbo

For 2008, Porsche expanded the 997.1 Turbo lineup with the introduction of the Turbo Cabriolet, offering an open-top driving experience. 

The new soft-top, power-folding roof maintained the coupe’s structural rigidity, ensuring that the Cabriolet delivered nearly identical performance figures. 

Equipped with the Tiptronic S transmission, it could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, matching the hardtop’s capability. 

Top speed remained at 193 mph, further proving that the Cabriolet was every bit as quick as its coupe counterpart.

In 2008, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a starting price of $126,200, while the newly introduced Turbo Cabriolet variant started at $136,500.

2009 Porsche 997 Turbo

In the 2009 model year, the Porsche 997.1 Turbo received subtle enhancements to its interior and exterior aesthetics. Inside, Porsche offered optional wood trim upgrades, allowing owners to personalize their vehicles with luxurious materials such as wood veneers and brushed aluminum finishes. 

These upgrades encompassed various components, including the dashboard, center console, and door panels, providing a more refined and customized cabin experience.

Externally, the 2009 997.1 Turbo featured new wheel designs, offering owners more choices to tailor the car’s appearance to their preferences. These options included the classic 5-spoke design, known for its balance of simplicity and aggression, and the Sport Design wheels, characterized by a 15-spoke layout that combined aesthetic appeal with functional performance.

In 2009, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a starting price of $132,145, while the Turbo Cabriolet variant started at $142,150.

2010 Porsche 997 Turbo

For 2010, Porsche introduced the 997.2 Turbo, a major mid-cycle refresh that brought significant performance, technology, and design improvements. 

The Turbo Coupe and Turbo Cabriolet returned, now powered by a new 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six, marking the first time Porsche’s Turbo engine featured direct fuel injection. This upgrade resulted in 500 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, with the optional Sport Chrono Package temporarily boosting torque to 516 lb-ft. 

One of the most notable changes was the replacement of the 5-speed Tiptronic S with the more advanced 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, significantly improving shift speed and efficiency. A 6-speed manual was still available for purists. With PDK and Sport Chrono, the 997.2 Turbo could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 194 mph. 

The exterior received revised front and rear bumpers, new LED daytime running lights, and updated taillights, modernizing its appearance. A lighter, more efficient AWD system improved handling, while a new titanium-aluminum turbocharger enhanced responsiveness. Additionally, Launch Control became standard with PDK, and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) was available as an option, further refining the car’s dynamic capabilities.

In 2010, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a starting price of $132,800, while the Turbo Cabriolet variant started at $143,800.

2011 Porsche 997 Turbo

For 2011, Porsche introduced the 997.2 Turbo S, an even more potent version of the already impressive 997.2 Turbo, available in both Coupe and Cabriolet body styles. 

The Turbo S was designed as the ultimate factory-spec 911 Turbo, featuring an uprated 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six producing 530 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque with overboost. Unlike the standard Turbo, the Turbo S came exclusively with Porsche’s 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, eliminating the manual option but enabling a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph. 

The Turbo S also came fully loaded with performance-enhancing features that were optional on the standard Turbo, including Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), the Sport Chrono Package, dynamic engine mounts, and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV). 

It also featured center-lock wheels for a race-inspired aesthetic and an interior trimmed in premium leather, carbon fiber accents, and Alcantara.

In 2011, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a starting price of $137,500, while the Turbo Cabriolet variant started at $148,300. The higher-performance Turbo S Coupe began 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 final full production year of the 997 Turbo lineup before the introduction of the 991-generation 911 Turbo. 

In 2012, the Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe had a starting price of $137,500, while the Turbo Cabriolet was priced at $148,300. The higher-performance Turbo S Coupe started 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 final year of sales, with limited production as Porsche phased out the model in favor of the upcoming 991-generation Turbo. One notable release was the 997 Turbo S 918 Spyder Edition, an exclusive special edition available only to Porsche 918 Spyder buyers, featuring unique badging and premium interior trim. 

Beyond this, remaining inventory of the 997 Turbo and Turbo S models was sold off before the 991 Turbo officially took its place, marking the end of an era for one of Porsche’s most celebrated 911 Turbo generations.

The starting price for the Turbo S Edition 918 Spyder was $160,700.

Porsche 997 Turbo Common Problems

The Porsche 997 Turbo is a reliable, high-performance sports car that combines driving excitement with everyday usability and comfort. Over the years, many 911 Turbos have been used as daily drivers, accumulating high mileage while still maintaining their reliability and performance.

This breaks the traditional belief that supercars are inherently unreliable.

However, it is essential to keep in mind that all cars, even supercars, can have issues and it is crucial to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) from an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic to reveal all issues.

Coolant Pipe Corrosion: The alloy connector cups in the coolant pipes are prone to corrosion, which can lead to leaks. In severe cases, addressing this issue may require engine removal. 

Water Pump Wear: Over time, the water pump may begin to weep or leak, indicating bearing wear. Early detection and replacement are crucial to prevent overheating. 

Tandem Oil Pump Corrosion: The cover of the tandem oil pump can corrode, potentially leading to oil leaks. Regular inspections can help identify this issue before it becomes severe. 

Coil Pack and Spark Plug Deterioration: Neglecting the coil packs and spark plugs can result in misfires and reduced engine performance. Replacing these components can be labor-intensive due to their location. 

Exhaust Manifold Cracks: The exhaust manifolds are susceptible to splitting, which can lead to exhaust leaks and potential MOT failures. Addressing this issue is advisable during spark plug replacement.

Turbocharger Corrosion: Although less common, corrosion of the turbo units can occur, leading to performance issues and costly repairs. Some owners opt for hybrid turbo upgrades as a solution.

Radiator Blockage and Corrosion: Debris accumulation in the front intakes can cause radiator corrosion and reduced cooling efficiency. Regular cleaning of these areas is recommended to maintain optimal performance.

Air Conditioning Condenser Leaks: The air conditioning condensers are prone to leakage, which can impair the system’s functionality. Replacing these components is a relatively straightforward and cost-effective process.

Brake System Wear: The standard steel brakes may exhibit wear over time, affecting braking performance. Upgrading to Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) can enhance braking efficiency but at a higher cost. 

Camshaft Position Sensor Failure (P0021 Code): A known issue where the camshaft position sensor fails, triggering the P0021 error code. This can affect engine timing and performance, requiring prompt attention. 

Recalls

2009 Porsche 997 Turbo vehicles

Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) Turbocharger Lubrication (Recall no. W902)

This campaign addressed the lubrication of the Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) turbochargers to prevent potential seizing. The procedure involved applying lubricant to the VTG mechanisms and was performed at authorized Porsche centers.

Maintenance and Ownership Costs

In comparison to other supercars, the Porsche 997 Turbo is known for its relatively minimal maintenance needs.

However, it is important to remember that regular maintenance and repairs will still be necessary, and the costs can vary depending on whether you take your car to a dealer or an independent mechanic.

Here are the suggested service schedule and intervals per Porsche:

Annual Maintenance or Every 10,000 Miles:

Vehicle Inspection

Change engine oil and filter

Update or replace maintenance items based on inspection

In addition to the annual service, perform the following maintenance tasks based on the specified time or mileage intervals:

Additional Maintenance Every 20,000 Miles or 2 Years:

Replace brake fluid

Replace engine air intake filter

Replace cabin pollen filter

Additional Maintenance Every 30,000 Miles or 4 Years:

Replace spark plugs

Replace tire sealant

Additional Maintenance Every 60,000 Miles or 6 Years:

Replace drive belt

Replace PDK clutch fluid (on 997.2 Turbo)

Replace front differential controller oil

Clean throttle body

Additional Maintenance Every 120,000 Miles or 12 Years:

Replace manual transmission oil

Replace PDK transmission oil (on 997.2 Turbo)

Replace front differential oil

Here is a rough estimate of typical service costs associated with the Porsche 997 Turbo:

Oil Change – An oil change for the 997 Turbo typically costs between $200 and $400 at a dealership, depending on the type of oil and labor rates. Independent shops may offer this service for $100 to $200. 

Minor Service – Minor services, including oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections, generally cost between $200 and $400 at both dealerships and independent shops. 

Major Service – Major services, encompassing comprehensive inspections, spark plug replacements, and fluid changes, can range from $1,000 to $2,500 at dealerships. Independent shops may charge between $800 and $1,500 for similar services. 

Tires – A set of four high-performance tires such as the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, typically costs between $1,200 and $2,000, depending on the brand and specifications. Installation fees may vary between dealerships and independent shops.

Brakes – Replacing brake pads and rotors on all four corners can cost between $900 and $1,800, depending on whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used. 

Clutch – Clutch replacement is a labor-intensive process, with costs typically ranging from $1,500 to $2,500, depending on parts and labor rates.

Options List

When considering the Porsche 997 Turbo, understanding the available options is key to tailoring the car to your preferences. The Sport Chrono Package Turbo enhances performance with dynamic engine mounts, a SPORT button that sharpens throttle response, and an overboost function that temporarily increases torque for stronger acceleration.

Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) offer superior braking performance with reduced unsprung weight, improving handling and stopping power, though they come at a significant cost over standard steel brakes.

For exterior features, the electric slide/tilt sunroof provides an open-air driving experience without compromising the coupe’s structural rigidity. Park Assist uses sensors embedded in the rear bumper to alert drivers of obstacles, making parking in tight spaces easier.

The windscreen with grey top tint reduces glare from direct sunlight, enhancing visibility on bright days. Porsche Dynamic Cornering Lights adjust the headlight beam based on steering input, improving nighttime driving by illuminating turns more effectively.

Inside, heated seats are available for both the driver and passenger, making the cabin more comfortable in cold weather. Adaptive sport seats provide enhanced lateral support for spirited driving while maintaining long-distance comfort. The Bose Sound System delivers a high-end audio experience with upgraded speakers and a dedicated amplifier, ensuring premium sound quality within the cabin.

With these options, the 997 Turbo can be configured to suit a variety of driving styles, whether focused on track performance, daily comfort, or high-end luxury. Buyers looking for the most engaging experience often opt for Sport Chrono and PCCB, while those prioritizing comfort may prefer features like adaptive seats and Bose audio.

2007 Porsche 997 Turbo options list

2010 Porsche 997.2 Turbo options list

Key Options

Sport Chrono Package

Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB)

Adaptive Sport Seats

Bose Surround Sound System

Sport Design Wheels

The Best Porsche 997 Turbo to Buy

When it comes to choosing the best Porsche 997 Turbo, several key factors should be considered, including model year updates, available options, and overall vehicle condition.

For those looking for the best version of the 997 Turbo, the 2012 model year is an ideal choice. As the final full production year of the 997.2 Turbo, it benefits from all the refinements made throughout its production run, including the 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection, PDK dual-clutch transmission, and improved all-wheel-drive system.

Additionally, the Turbo S variant, available from 2011 to 2013, is the highest-performing factory version, featuring 530 hp, standard Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), and center-lock wheels.

Otherwise, for non Turbo S models, go for one with a manual transmission. Even though it was an optional extra for the tiptronic transmission, it is simply not desirable and often go for much less money than one with a manual. Also, the non Turbo S cars that were spec’d with the optional Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) are a desirable option and you can tell because they came with factory 

In terms of market stability, 2007 to 2012 models are a solid choice for hacking, provided you find a clean, well-maintained example.

In addition to selecting the right model year, the condition and mileage of the car are crucial factors. A well-maintained 997 Turbo with full-service history and documented maintenance will not only provide better reliability but also hold its value more effectively. 

Given that many of these cars were driven hard, looking for examples with regular oil changes, clean coolant systems, and properly serviced PDK or manual transmissions is essential.

Conclusion

In summary, with a starting price of around $88,000+, the Porsche 997 Turbo remains a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance sports car with everyday usability. It offers a balanced combination of power, precision, and all-wheel-drive capability, making it one of the most versatile 911 Turbos ever produced.

While alternatives like the Nissan GT-R, Audi R8 V10, and Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 offer strong competition, the 997 Turbo stands out with its Mezger-derived engine (997.1), direct-injection advancements (997.2), and timeless 911 design. 

For those looking for a daily-drivable supercar with a strong long-term value, the Porsche 997 Turbo is an excellent match.