{"id":197202,"date":"2025-07-05T18:45:55","date_gmt":"2025-07-05T08:45:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/?p=197202"},"modified":"2025-07-05T18:47:48","modified_gmt":"2025-07-05T08:47:48","slug":"porsche-911-buyers-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/cars\/porsche-911-buyers-guide","title":{"rendered":"The Porsche 911 Buying Guide: New, Classics &amp; Vintage Models"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"has-text-align-left\">Joining a Porsche car club is hands-down the smartest move if you\u2019re serious about buying a 911. <\/p><p class=\"has-text-align-left\">No amount of Reddit trawling or YouTube deep dives can replace the firsthand advice of owners who\u2019ve lived and breathed these cars for decades. Whether you\u2019re eyeing your first classic or trying to decode the market, the club circuit is where the real education happens.<\/p><p>But if you\u2019re more of a lone wolf, or itching to spend that inheritance while your bank manager still thinks it\u2019s a savings account, we\u2019ve got you covered. We\u2019ve spoken with seasoned 911 collectors, Porsche Australia insiders, and long-time car club members to pull together what might be the most useful guide to navigating the seven generations (and hundreds of variations) of the Porsche 911.<\/p><p>By the end of this, you\u2019ll not only know which generation suits your style, but you\u2019ll also avoid the common traps and spot the cars worth chasing before the prices go full crypto.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-1300981681\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_332374611 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_332374611 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[300,250],[320,100],[320,180],[336,280],[640,360]],\"incontent-1300981681\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_332374611.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-1300981681\");});};adsQueue.push(load_332374611);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"content-subscribe\">\n        <div class=\"subscribe-box\">\n            <p class=\"subscribe-title\">Curated news for men, <br\/>delivered to your inbox.<\/p>\n            <form class=\"subscribe-form\" method=\"POST\">\n                <div class=\"subscribe-input\">\n                    <label class=\"screen-reader-text\" for=\"subscribe-email\">Email:<\/label>\n                    <input type=\"email\" name=\"email\" id=\"subscribe-email\" placeholder=\"Enter your email\" required class=\"form-control\" autocomplete=\"on\" \/>\n                    <button type=\"submit\" class=\"button button-primary subscribe-button\">Sign Up<\/button>\n                    <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"source\" value=\"article\" \/>\n                    <input type=\"hidden\" id=\"_wpnonce\" name=\"_wpnonce\" value=\"e2df992756\" \/><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wp_http_referer\" value=\"\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197202\" \/>                <\/div>\n                <div class=\"form-result\"><\/div>\n            <\/form>\n            <p class=\"subscribe-copy\">Join the DMARGE newsletter \u2014 Be the first to receive the latest news and exclusive stories on style, travel, luxury, cars, and watches. Straight to your inbox.<\/p>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <p>So, grab a coffee or something stronger. Because the faster you finish this guide, the sooner you\u2019ll be hammering down a country road to the howling rhythm of that flat-six engine.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>In this story\u2026<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-the-beginning\" data-level=\"2\">The Beginning<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-the-models\" data-level=\"2\">The Models<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-type-901-1963-89\" data-level=\"3\">Type 901 (1963-89)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-type-964-1989-94\" data-level=\"3\">Type 964 (1989-94)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-type-993-1995-98\" data-level=\"3\">Type 993 (1995-98)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-type-996-1999-2004\" data-level=\"3\">Type 996 (1999-2004)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-type-997-2004-12\" data-level=\"3\">Type 997 (2004-12)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-type-991-2012-2019\" data-level=\"3\">Type 991 (2012-2019)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-type-992-2019-present\" data-level=\"3\">Type 992 (2019-present)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-the-three-cs-almost\" data-level=\"2\">The Three Cs (almost\u2026)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-best-911-to-buy\" data-level=\"2\">Best 911 To Buy?<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-spell-it-out-which-one-should-i-buy\" data-level=\"3\">Spell it out: Which one should I buy?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-some-more-sage-advice-from-ron\" data-level=\"3\">Some more sage advice from Ron:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-best-porsche-911-models-for-driving\" data-level=\"2\">Best Porsche 911 models for driving<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-the-best-porsche-911-for-investing\" data-level=\"2\">The Best Porsche 911 For Investing<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-s-feeding-the-frenzy\" data-level=\"2\">What\u2019s feeding the frenzy?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-want-a-bargain-buy-the-mongrel\" data-level=\"2\">Want a bargain? Buy the mongrel<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-beginning\">The Beginning<\/h2><p>It\u2019s hard to believe a car that shares its DNA with the humble Volkswagen Beetle, a machine originally built for the masses in pre-war Germany, would go on to become the most influential sports car of the 20th century. Yet that\u2019s exactly what the Porsche 911 has done. Voted by a panel of 133 international motoring journalists as the definitive sports car of the century, the 911 has earned its place in automotive history. No other vehicle matches its silhouette, its sound, or the way it drives.<\/p><p>What makes that legacy even more surprising is that the car breaks just about every engineering rule in the book. It has a rear engine, meaning most of the weight sits behind the rear axle. This layout should have doomed it from the start, especially in the early models. In the hands of inexperienced drivers, the 911 was notorious for sudden oversteer. Many owners found themselves spinning off the road without warning, particularly when lifting off the throttle mid-corner.<\/p><p>But others learned how to master it. <\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-718915161\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1563957156 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1563957156 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-718915161\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1563957156.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-718915161\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1563957156);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>Skilled drivers used the 911\u2019s oddball weight balance, compact footprint and quick steering to their advantage. Porsche engineers refined the chassis over time, while racing drivers pushed the platform to its limits. The result was an unbeatable track record in legendary events like the <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Monte_Carlo_Rally\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Monte Carlo Rally<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/targa-florio.it\/targaflorioclassica\/race\/?lang=en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Targa Florio<\/a> and the <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.24h-lemans.com\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">24 Hours of Le Mans<\/a>.<\/p><p>Fast forward to today and classic 911s are now seen as rolling investments. Some sell for ten times the price of a brand new 911 Turbo. But that doesn\u2019t mean every model is out of reach. A quick look at online classifieds will turn up examples like a 1974 manual for around $45,000. <\/p><p>The challenge is knowing what you\u2019re looking at and whether it\u2019s the right car for you.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-1743690033\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1416179017 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1416179017 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-1743690033\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1416179017.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-1743690033\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1416179017);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-models\">The Models<\/h2><p>There have been seven major generations of the Porsche 911 since the model\u2019s debut in 1964, beginning with the long-serving Type 901, better known as the \u2018classic\u2019 911. Despite the passing of decades and hundreds of design tweaks, every generation has stayed surprisingly true to the original formula laid down by Ferdinand Porsche. The signature silhouette, two-door layout, and distinctive rear-mounted flat-six engine have remained constant throughout.<\/p><p>Each new 911 has introduced subtle but important changes to performance, handling, comfort and safety. What started as an air-cooled sports car built for twisty European roads evolved into a global icon, with water-cooled engines, all-wheel drive systems, advanced driver tech and luxury-grade interiors. And yet, even with the arrival of hybrid drivetrains in the latest models, the 911 still feels unmistakably connected to its roots.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-873161169\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_731845088 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_731845088 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-873161169\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_731845088.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-873161169\");});};adsQueue.push(load_731845088);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>Whether you\u2019re drawn to the raw simplicity of the early 901s or the daily usability of the current 992, understanding the evolution of the 911 is the key to buying wisely. Each generation offers something different. Some are undervalued sleepers. Others are already modern classics with serious investment potential.<\/p><p>Here\u2019s a breakdown of what separates one era of 911 from the next.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-type-901-1963-89\"><strong>Type 901 (1963-89)<\/strong><\/h3><p>This is where it all began. The Type 901 launched in 1964 as a spiritual successor to the Porsche 356, and within a few short years, it had cemented itself as the benchmark for driver-focused sports cars. Early models from 1963 to 1973, often referred to as the \u201clong-hood\u201d cars, are especially prized by collectors. With elegant metal bumpers, a svelte waistline, and minimalist cabins, these are considered the purest expression of the 911 philosophy.<\/p><p>Power outputs in the early years weren\u2019t astronomical, but they didn\u2019t need to be. Weighing in at just over 1,000 kilograms, the 911\u2019s balance and agility were enough to run rings around bigger, more powerful rivals. The driving experience was raw, involving and occasionally terrifying if you didn\u2019t respect the engine slung out over the back axle.<\/p><p>In 1974, Porsche was forced to tweak the design to meet stricter US crash regulations, introducing the now-infamous \u201cimpact bumpers\u201d that stuck out awkwardly at both ends. Purists groaned, but the mechanicals underneath only kept improving. These G-series cars ran from 1974 through to 1989 and were built in far greater numbers, which means they\u2019re still relatively attainable today.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-2076514380\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1113001036 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1113001036 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-2076514380\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1113001036.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-2076514380\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1113001036);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>Then came the game-changer: the 911 Turbo, also known as the <strong>930<\/strong>, in 1975. With flared arches, a whale tail, and turbocharged brutality, it redefined what a 911 could be. It was also the first 911 that could truly scare its driver at full throttle, earning a reputation as both a performance icon and a bit of a handful. But for many enthusiasts, that\u2019s exactly the point.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-medium wp-image-315898\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"537\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/1963_porsche_901_prototype-920x537.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-315898\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/1963_porsche_901_prototype-920x537.jpeg 920w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/1963_porsche_901_prototype-400x234.jpeg 400w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/1963_porsche_901_prototype-768x449.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/1963_porsche_901_prototype-960x561.jpeg 960w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/1963_porsche_901_prototype-640x374.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/1963_porsche_901_prototype-255x149.jpeg 255w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/1963_porsche_901_prototype-180x105.jpeg 180w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/1963_porsche_901_prototype-480x280.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 400px, (max-width: 640px) 600px, (max-width: 768px) 700px, (min-width: 769px) 800px, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The original<\/figcaption><\/figure><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>1963-73 models with metal bumpers are considered the quintessential 911<\/li><li>The first 911 Turbo (930) arrived in 1975<\/li><li>1974 redesign adds bulging \u2018impact bumpers\u2019 to satisfy US safety nannies (not a good look, still a great car)<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-type-964-1989-94\">Type 964 (1989-94)<\/h3><p>The 964 marked the first major overhaul of the 911 since its inception, and while it looked similar to the G-series at first glance, underneath it was a very different beast. Porsche gave it a modernised chassis with coil springs instead of torsion bars, added ABS and power steering for the first time, and introduced an electronically deployed rear spoiler that popped up at speed. It was also the first 911 to offer all-wheel drive in the Carrera 4, adding a layer of security that previous models didn\u2019t care to provide.<\/p><p>Visually, the 964 got plastic bumpers integrated more cleanly into the bodywork, but it retained the classic round headlights that would\u2019ve caused riots had they disappeared. It struck a perfect balance between vintage charm and modern usability, making it a favourite among those who want the soul of an air-cooled Porsche without the daily compromises of older models.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-931864526\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_856388801 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_856388801 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-931864526\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_856388801.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-931864526\");});};adsQueue.push(load_856388801);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>It\u2019s also the chassis Singer Vehicle Design prefers when building their wildly expensive reimagined 911s \u2014 which tells you everything you need to know about how well-built and versatile this generation really is. If you\u2019re after a 911 with vintage flavour but real-world drivability, the 964 is often where the smart money starts.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-medium wp-image-315900\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"537\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/968-920x537.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-315900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/968-920x537.jpeg 920w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/968-400x234.jpeg 400w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/968-768x449.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/968-960x561.jpeg 960w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/968-640x374.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/968-255x149.jpeg 255w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/968-180x105.jpeg 180w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/968-480x280.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 400px, (max-width: 640px) 600px, (max-width: 768px) 700px, (min-width: 769px) 800px, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The stunning sequel<\/figcaption><\/figure><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>New styling, plastic bumpers, round headlights, first with all-wheel drive, coil springs, ABS, power steering + active rear spoiler<\/li><li>A good starter model for first-time 911 buyers<\/li><li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/cars\/singer-porsche-australia\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Singer Vehicle Design\u2019s car of choice for their custom jobs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-type-993-1995-98\">Type 993 (1995-98)<\/h3><p>If the 964 was the warm-up act, the 993 was Porsche\u2019s return to full form. This was the final chapter in the air-cooled saga, and for many purists, the last <em>real<\/em> 911. It introduced smoother bodywork, better build quality, and a serious mechanical upgrade in the form of a new multilink rear suspension setup that finally calmed the tail-happy nature of earlier models.<\/p><p>It still looked like a 911, still sounded like one, but drove with newfound composure and confidence. You could push it harder without fear of being flung backwards through a hedge. For that reason, the 993 is widely regarded as the ideal starting point for someone buying their first classic 911. It\u2019s usable, reliable, and beautiful \u2013 without feeling like it wants to kill you when the road gets damp.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-1067164542\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_838779428 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_838779428 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-1067164542\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_838779428.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-1067164542\");});};adsQueue.push(load_838779428);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>Then came the 993 Turbo in 1995 \u2013 the first 911 to get twin-turbochargers and standard all-wheel drive. It could do 0\u2013100 km\/h in 3.4 seconds, which was hypercar territory at the time, and still puts many modern cars to shame. It\u2019s expensive now, of course, but with good reason.<\/p><p>The 993 is peak Porsche nostalgia \u2013 old-school charm with just enough modern engineering to make you feel smug, not scared.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-medium wp-image-315901\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"537\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/993-920x537.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-315901\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/993-920x537.jpeg 920w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/993-400x234.jpeg 400w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/993-768x449.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/993-960x561.jpeg 960w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/993-640x374.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/993-255x149.jpeg 255w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/993-180x105.jpeg 180w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/993-480x280.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 400px, (max-width: 640px) 600px, (max-width: 768px) 700px, (min-width: 769px) 800px, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The perfect blend of tradition and innovation<\/figcaption><\/figure><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>New styling new multilink rear suspension tame 911\u2019s unruly rear end<\/li><li>The best \u2018first\u2019 911 to buy because it\u2019s gorgeous and won\u2019t try to kill the unwary at every turn<\/li><li>993 Turbo in 1995, the first with twin-turbochargers and all-wheel drive<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Capable of 0-100 in 3.4 seconds<\/li><li>Your ego may want this one, but it is best to get a few years of 911 experience first.<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li>The last air-cooled 911<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-type-996-1999-2004\">Type 996 (1999-2004)<\/h3><p>The 996 marked the biggest break from tradition in 911 history. Out went the beloved air-cooled flat-six, and in came a thoroughly modern water-cooled engine. Purists were horrified. But this was Porsche evolving to survive, and the 996 introduced a bigger, wider body and a completely re-engineered platform that would carry the brand into the new millennium.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-448964064\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1039016440 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1039016440 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-448964064\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1039016440.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-448964064\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1039016440);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>It wasn\u2019t just the engine that stirred controversy. The 996 debuted with unusual teardrop headlights that many felt looked too much like the cheaper Boxster. The nickname <em>\u201cfried eggs\u201d<\/em> stuck, and not in a good way. A mid-cycle facelift in 2002 gave the 996 a more traditional front end, and those later models are generally more desirable today.<\/p><p>That controversy, however, has kept prices lower than other 911 generations. Which means the 996 is still a relative bargain. You\u2019re getting a proper 911 \u2013 fast, agile, comfortable, and engineered with German precision \u2013 just without the inflated price tag.<\/p><p>The real highlight? The 996 GT3. Introduced in 1999, it was a stripped-back, track-focused weapon with no rear seats, no unnecessary luxuries, and a naturally aspirated engine that howled all the way to redline. It set the tone for every GT3 that followed. If you\u2019re after a raw, focused 911 experience, this is the sleeper hit.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-1873530284\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_25601192 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_25601192 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-1873530284\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_25601192.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-1873530284\");});};adsQueue.push(load_25601192);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-medium wp-image-315902\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"537\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/996-920x537.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-315902\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/996-920x537.jpeg 920w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/996-400x234.jpeg 400w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/996-768x449.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/996-960x561.jpeg 960w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/996-640x374.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/996-255x149.jpeg 255w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/996-180x105.jpeg 180w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/996-480x280.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 400px, (max-width: 640px) 600px, (max-width: 768px) 700px, (min-width: 769px) 800px, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The paradigm shift<\/figcaption><\/figure><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>All-new bigger chassis and body, new water-cooled engine, and those headlights\u2026 Fried eggs, anyone?<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>2002 saw a front-end redesign that made the car look less like a Boxster, and these are considered easier on the eyes<\/li><\/ul><\/li><li>Unloved, so cheaper than most<\/li><li>Race-ready GT3 model debuts with this generation<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Lighter, faster, no rear seats, roll cage optional<\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-type-997-2004-12\">Type 997 (2004-12)<\/h3><p>After the polarising 996, the 997 was a return to what many considered \u201cproper\u201d 911 territory. The round headlights came back, the interior was significantly improved, and the car looked and felt more refined across the board. It kept the water-cooled flat-six but polished every aspect of the package.<\/p><p>This generation is often split into two phases. The early models (2004\u20132008) retained a more traditional mechanical setup, while the facelifted 997.2 models (2009\u20132012) brought in key technical upgrades that modernised the drive. Most notable was the switch to a direct-injection engine, which boosted performance and efficiency, and the introduction of Porsche\u2019s PDK dual-clutch gearbox, which made gear changes lightning-fast and smooth.<\/p><p>Tech features like Bluetooth, revised suspension, and improved aerodynamics made the 997.2 not only more livable but also more capable on track and road. It\u2019s a sweet spot between analogue feel and modern performance, making the 997 a favourite among both collectors and everyday drivers. Prices are on the rise, but good examples are still accessible if you act soon.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-1653421695\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_57941870 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_57941870 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-1653421695\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_57941870.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-1653421695\");});};adsQueue.push(load_57941870);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone size-medium wp-image-315903\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"920\" height=\"537\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/997-920x537.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-315903\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/997-920x537.jpeg 920w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/997-400x234.jpeg 400w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/997-768x449.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/997-960x561.jpeg 960w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/997-640x374.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/997-255x149.jpeg 255w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/997-180x105.jpeg 180w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/997-480x280.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 400px, (max-width: 640px) 600px, (max-width: 768px) 700px, (min-width: 769px) 800px, 1000px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The return to form<\/figcaption><\/figure><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Round headlights return, updated interior<\/li><li>2009 update brings a new direct-injection engine and PDK double-clutch gearbox, new front-end styling, Bluetooth<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-type-991-2012-2019\">Type 991 (2012-2019)<\/h3><p>The 991 marked the most significant structural overhaul of the 911 in decades. It introduced an all-new platform that stretched the car\u2019s dimensions, while an aluminium-heavy construction helped shed weight, improving both handling and efficiency. Visually, it retained the classic proportions but looked sharper and more contemporary in every detail.<\/p><p>Inside, the cabin took a big leap forward in luxury, with a Panamera-inspired layout, higher-quality materials, and more advanced tech. Purists were less thrilled about the introduction of electric power steering, which, while more efficient, dulled some of the famed 911 road feel. But Porsche engineers worked hard to tune it, and most drivers eventually came around.<\/p><p>The manual gearbox now came with seven gears\u2014an unusual choice, but one that allowed for better fuel economy on highways. Meanwhile, the PDK dual-clutch transmission became even slicker, winning over many former manual loyalists.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-682756950\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1315236307 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1315236307 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-682756950\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1315236307.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-682756950\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1315236307);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>The biggest change came in 2015 with the launch of the 991.2 update: Porsche downsized all Carreras to 3.0-litre twin-turbo engines. The result? Lower emissions, better fuel economy, and even more power. Some mourned the loss of the naturally aspirated flat-six howl, but the performance gains were undeniable. The 991 stands as a bridge between old-school engagement and modern capability.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/991-1100x643.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-197212\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The formula refined<\/figcaption><\/figure><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>All-new chassis and mainly aluminium body make for bigger yet lighter 911<\/li><li>New electric power steering polarises fans<\/li><li>Manual now has seven speeds<\/li><li>2015 update brings an all-new smaller 3.0-litre twin-turbo engine for all models to reduce fuel consumption but also increase power and performance<\/li><\/ul><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-type-992-2019-present\">Type 992 (2019-present)<\/h3><p>The 992 generation is the most technologically advanced 911 yet, but it hasn\u2019t strayed far from its roots. Visually, it leans into the past more than the 991 did, with wider hips, a flatter bonnet, and a rear light bar that harks back to the G Series. Despite being larger overall, it manages to look tighter, more athletic.<\/p><p>Mechanically, Porsche refined nearly every component. It now rides on a platform that\u2019s more rigid and better balanced, thanks in part to aluminium body panels and a wider track. Staggered wheel sizes\u2014wider at the rear than the front\u2014are now standard across the range, improving cornering grip and stability.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-300543919\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_908095184 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_908095184 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-300543919\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_908095184.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-300543919\");});};adsQueue.push(load_908095184);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>There\u2019s also a new engine mounting system, an upgraded intercooler design, and revised intake architecture, all aimed at keeping the turbocharged flat-six as responsive and characterful as ever. The cabin now features a fully digital instrument cluster (save for the central tachometer) and an upgraded infotainment system.<\/p><p>And while every generation has its technical milestone, the 992\u2019s legacy will likely be defined by what\u2019s coming next: the hybrid. The 992.2, rolling out from 2024 onwards, brings electrification into the mix, giving the 911 a new kind of boost while staying faithful to its performance-first ethos.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone wp-image-293447 size-medium\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/porsche_992-920x613.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-293447\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The legend continues<\/figcaption><\/figure><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Slightly wider, now uses aluminium body panels<\/li><li>Staggered front and rear wheel diameters as standard<\/li><li>Revised intake, bigger intercooler, new engine-mounting system<\/li><li>The design tweaked to resemble classic 911s of old more closely<\/li><li>The hybrid drive train will be released as of the 992.2 model in 2024 with updated styling.<\/li><\/ul><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-three-cs-almost\">\u2028The Three Cs (almost\u2026)<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/1996-Porsche-993-Carrera-S-Vesuvio-Metallic-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-491044\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/1996-Porsche-993-Carrera-S-Vesuvio-Metallic-1.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/1996-Porsche-993-Carrera-S-Vesuvio-Metallic-1-960x640.jpg 960w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/1996-Porsche-993-Carrera-S-Vesuvio-Metallic-1-640x427.jpg 640w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/1996-Porsche-993-Carrera-S-Vesuvio-Metallic-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/1996-Porsche-993-Carrera-S-Vesuvio-Metallic-1-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 400px, (max-width: 640px) 600px, (max-width: 768px) 700px, (max-width: 1024px) 800px, (min-width: 1025px) 1000px, 2048px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Porsche 911 (993 model) Photo: Classic Throttle Shop<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Ron Widdison knows a thing or two about Porsches. As the editor of the Porsche Car Club magazine in Victoria and a seasoned owner of ten Porsches\u2014seven of which were 911s\u2014he\u2019s navigated the market better than most. After recently selling his 964 and doubling his investment, Ron now holds three 911s in his stable: two 993s and a 997. Not a bad lineup.<\/p><p>His buying strategy boils down to what he calls the \u201cThree Cs\u201d\u2026 although he openly admits one of them doesn\u2019t actually start with a C. Semantics aside, his framework is straightforward and practical\u2014especially if you\u2019re not buying purely with your heart.<\/p><p><strong>Condition<\/strong><br>Ron is adamant that bodywork is where the big costs often lie. \u201cGeneral condition is important. Bodywork can sometimes be more expensive to fix than mechanical. The bodywork has to be spot on.\u201d Rust, mismatched panels, and bubbling paint are red flags. A car with mechanical issues can usually be brought back to life more affordably than one with hidden structural problems.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-1733587751\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1447579768 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1447579768 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-1733587751\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1447579768.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-1733587751\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1447579768);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p><strong>Colour<\/strong><br>It may sound superficial, but colour plays a big role in resale value. \u201cIf you buy a green car, you\u2019re really limiting the market when you sell it,\u201d says Ron. \u201cYou may love the colour, but when you sell it, there will be fewer people who also love it.\u201d Stick with timeless hues like silver, black, or guards red unless you\u2019re comfortable holding a car for the long haul.<\/p><p><strong>Kilometres<\/strong><br>Lower mileage generally equals higher value. \u201cIf you can buy a car with less than 100,000km on it, it will be worth a lot more than a higher mileage example,\u201d he says. But don\u2019t be blinded by the odometer alone\u2014service history and regular use are just as important.<\/p><p>Ron also makes it clear that body style and transmission choice matter. Coupes are more desirable than Convertibles or Targas, and manuals always command a premium over Tiptronic autos.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-470325911\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1643220333 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1643220333 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-470325911\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1643220333.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-470325911\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1643220333);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>Above all else, he urges buyers to be meticulous before sealing the deal. \u201cTake it to a specialist and have the mechanicals checked. Make sure there\u2019s no rust, and that it\u2019s been well maintained. You must do your due diligence and check them out properly.\u201d In other words, buy with your head first, and your heart shortly after.<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-911-to-buy\">Best 911 To Buy?<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"796\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970911E-1200x796.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-197384\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970911E-1200x796.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970911E-920x610.jpg 920w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970911E-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970911E-960x637.jpg 960w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970911E-640x425.jpg 640w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970911E-480x318.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 400px, (max-width: 640px) 600px, (max-width: 768px) 700px, (max-width: 1024px) 800px, (min-width: 1025px) 1000px, 2048px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The million-dollar question\u2026<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Melbourne advertising executive Damian Royce has been immersed in the Porsche 911 world for more than two decades. \u201cBuying and selling and celebrating all things 911,\u201d as he puts it. His passion started with a 1971 911E he bought in the mid-1990s. \u201cIt had a 2.2-litre engine and was a beautiful, driver-focused car,\u201d he recalls. He owned it for more than a decade before selling it for a healthy profit.<\/p><p>Since then, he\u2019s built an impressive resume of 911 ownership. Two 3.0-litre Carreras, two 3.2-litre Carreras, and a 964 Turbo have all passed through his garage. It\u2019s safe to say he\u2019s learned a few things along the way. His number one rule? <strong>Buy the best you can afford.<\/strong><\/p><p>That doesn\u2019t mean rare or flashy. It means clean, well-kept, and mechanically sound. \u201cAvoid anything that needs work or has been modified,\u201d he warns. \u201cAnd make sure the engine number and VIN match the paperwork.\u201d<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-180558583\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_76416033 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_76416033 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-180558583\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_76416033.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-180558583\");});};adsQueue.push(load_76416033);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>He also stresses the importance of buying a car that\u2019s been driven regularly and serviced by professionals. \u201cThese cars are meant to be used. A 911 that\u2019s been sitting idle for years can be a nightmare. Buy something friendly on your wallet, but in tip-top condition.\u201d<\/p><p>Damian advises checking service books, verifying matching chassis and engine numbers, and avoiding cars with non-original modifications. \u201cThose changes might suit the current owner\u2019s taste, but they can damage the value and make resale harder down the track.\u201d<\/p><p>When it comes to choosing a model, Royce says research is everything. \u201cEach generation has its own quirks. If you\u2019re serious about buying, join a 911 club, go to a few meetings, and talk to the people who live and breathe these cars.\u201d<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-524452495\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_326359626 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_326359626 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-524452495\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_326359626.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-524452495\");});};adsQueue.push(load_326359626);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Picking the Silk from the Sows<\/h2><p>Almost every Porsche enthusiast agrees on one thing: air-cooled models are the holy grail. That means anything made before 1998, including the 901, 964, and 993.<\/p><p>\u201cAir-cooled is the way to go,\u201d says Ron Widdison. \u201cBut it\u2019s not just about the engine. It\u2019s about the way the car was built.\u201d He points out that Porsche\u2019s manufacturing methods changed dramatically around the late 90s, moving from hand-built craftsmanship to robot-assisted production.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-989801927\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_161543647 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_161543647 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-989801927\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_161543647.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-989801927\");});};adsQueue.push(load_161543647);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>\u201cThere\u2019s a real difference in the build quality of a 993 compared to a 996. The 993 was still largely hand-built. The 996 marked a shift to Japanese-style efficiency and scale. That was necessary for Porsche to survive, but you can feel the difference in how the cars are put together.\u201d<\/p><p>For buyers chasing heritage, build quality, and long-term collectability, sticking with air-cooled models remains a smart move. Just be prepared to pay for it. These cars are no longer under-the-radar gems. They are highly sought-after and appreciating fast.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-spell-it-out-which-one-should-i-buy\">Spell it out: Which one should I buy?<\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1299\" height=\"731\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/porsche-g-series.avif\" alt=\"Porsche 911 G Series cars (1984-89)\" class=\"wp-image-491045\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Porsche 911 G Series cars (1984-89) \u2013 A top pick.<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Ron says the really collectable ones now are the long-nose cars prior to 1973\u2019s impact bumper design change. \u201cOnce, no one wanted them, but now they\u2019re hugely collectable because they\u2019re such a gorgeous shape. The pick of those is the 72-73 models.\u201d<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-some-more-sage-advice-from-ron\">Some more sage advice from Ron:<\/h3><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The 993 is the last air-cooled engine, so they\u2019re the best of the bunch. Everything was sorted out by then.<\/li><li>Early 964s had a few problems, like oil leaks, distributor issues and flywheel issues, but they should all have been seen to by now.<\/li><li>The last of the G Series cars (1984-89) are great. Anything from 1984 onwards is your best buy for reliability. The pick of those is the 87-89 models because they had a better gearbox.<\/li><\/ul><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-porsche-911-models-for-driving\">Best Porsche 911 models for driving<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"767\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970porsche-1200x767.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-197383\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970porsche-1200x767.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970porsche-920x588.jpg 920w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970porsche-768x491.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970porsche-960x613.jpg 960w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970porsche-640x409.jpg 640w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/1970porsche-480x307.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 400px, (max-width: 640px) 600px, (max-width: 768px) 700px, (max-width: 1024px) 800px, (min-width: 1025px) 1000px, 2048px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">No substitute for a genuine article<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>If, like Damian, your love for the 911 comes from the purity of its connection between man and machine, then certain models stand out above the rest. These cars strip the experience back to its mechanical roots. No drive modes. No electronic nannies. Just you, the car, and the road.<\/p><p>Start by looking at early to mid-1970s examples. These cars still had that unmistakable classic look and feel but benefited from a few key upgrades. From 1974 onwards, Porsche increased the engine size to 2.7 litres and introduced fuel injection in some variants. This gave them a useful bump in performance without sacrificing character. They\u2019re raw, responsive, and packed with personality.<\/p><p>Next in line is the 1978 to 1983 911SC. While not held in quite the same regard by collectors, that\u2019s actually good news for buyers. The 911SC is often overlooked, which makes it a more affordable entry point. They\u2019re lighter than later models, offer a torquey drive, and are generally considered bulletproof if maintained properly. With the right example, you\u2019re getting a true driver\u2019s car without paying collector-level prices.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-362269700\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1955885807 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1955885807 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-362269700\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1955885807.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-362269700\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1955885807);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>Then there\u2019s the legendary 930 Turbo. Built from 1975 to 1989, it introduced the world to the wide arches, whale tail spoiler, and turbocharged performance that became a 911 signature. But it\u2019s not for the faint of heart. The 930 has serious power, and the mix of turbo-lag and rear-engine weight balance demands respect. Nicknamed the \u201cWidowmaker\u201d, it rewards skilled drivers but punishes overconfidence.<\/p><p>Lastly, don\u2019t overlook the humble 912. Produced from 1965 to 1969, the 912 shares its body and layout with the early 911 but swaps the six-cylinder for a 1.6-litre flat-four from the outgoing 356. It\u2019s lighter, simpler, and still hugely enjoyable to drive. Best of all, 912s remain one of the most affordable ways to get behind the wheel of a classic Porsche.<\/p><p>Whichever model you choose, remember this: the best driving 911 isn\u2019t always the fastest or most expensive. It\u2019s the one that makes you want to keep driving long after you\u2019ve reached your destination.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-241540279\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_414702798 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_414702798 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-241540279\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_414702798.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-241540279\");});};adsQueue.push(load_414702798);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-best-porsche-911-for-investing\">The Best Porsche 911 For Investing<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/b1bd5ec724103be86b57b5af05ef335a-1100x616.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-197381\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 993 is one of the most sought-after shapes<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>If we had a crystal ball, we\u2019d be out buying classic 911s ourselves instead of writing about them. The truth is, investing in vintage cars is never a sure thing. The market moves in waves, sentiment changes, and even the most desirable models can plateau or fall out of favour. That said, if you play your cards right and approach it with the right mindset, there are still smart ways to buy with appreciation in mind.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-223104953\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_2146869419 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_2146869419 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-223104953\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_2146869419.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-223104953\");});};adsQueue.push(load_2146869419);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>Start by going rare. The more limited the production run, the more likely it is to hold or grow in value. Factory-spec examples are always more desirable than modified ones. The car should be as close to original as possible, and ideally come with comprehensive paperwork that confirms its history, service record, and matching engine and chassis numbers. Provenance matters.<\/p><p>The 993 generation, built from 1994 to 1998, is one of the safest bets. It\u2019s the last of the air-cooled 911s, a milestone that gives it permanent collector appeal. It also introduced multilink rear suspension, which dramatically improved handling. Enthusiasts love it, and demand continues to rise. Just be prepared to pay. Good examples now start around $150,000 and climb quickly from there.<\/p><p>Earlier 911s also offer solid long-term value. The Carrera 3.2 (1984\u201389) and the shorter-lived Carrera 3.0 (1976\u201377) are two of the most sought-after variants. They combine reliability, classic styling, and relative ease of ownership. Both are still undervalued compared to their historical importance, although prices are creeping up.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-461274152\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_399924222 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_399924222 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-461274152\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_399924222.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-461274152\");});};adsQueue.push(load_399924222);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>The 911SC (1978\u201383), which bridged the gap between those two models, doesn\u2019t always get the same love. But that\u2019s precisely why it can be a good investment. It flies under the radar, and while it may not attract as much hype, a well-kept 911SC offers the same engaging driving experience with a lower entry price.<\/p><p>If you want a 911 that will continue to reward you both on the road and on the resale market, look for rarity, originality, and documentation. Just don\u2019t buy with dollar signs in your eyes. The real return comes from the joy of owning and driving one of the greatest sports cars ever made.<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-s-feeding-the-frenzy\">What\u2019s feeding the frenzy?<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"934\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/911-3-2-clubsport-1-1400x934.webp\" alt=\"3.2 Clubsport \" class=\"wp-image-491046\" style=\"width:841px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/911-3-2-clubsport-1-1400x934.webp 1400w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/911-3-2-clubsport-1-960x641.webp 960w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/911-3-2-clubsport-1-640x427.webp 640w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/911-3-2-clubsport-1-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/911-3-2-clubsport-1-480x320.webp 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 400px, (max-width: 640px) 600px, (max-width: 768px) 700px, (max-width: 1024px) 800px, (min-width: 1025px) 1000px, 2048px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The rare 3.2 Clubsport <\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Rarity is always a factor when it comes to classic car values, but for Australian Porsche enthusiasts, there\u2019s a unique market dynamic at play. Australia is one of the few right-hand drive markets in the global Porsche ecosystem, and that distinction is becoming increasingly valuable.<\/p><p>\u201cA big part of the incredible rise in Australian 911 values is the growing interest from Asian right-hand drive countries,\u201d says Ron Widdison. Collectors in places like Hong Kong, Singapore and Japan are looking to Australia as a source of well-preserved, right-hand drive examples\u2014especially as local stock dries up.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-947638897\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_306673098 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_306673098 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-947638897\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_306673098.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-947638897\");});};adsQueue.push(load_306673098);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>Adding more fuel to the fire is the surge in ultra-wealthy buyers from mainland China. Despite China being a left-hand drive market, Ron notes that \u201clots of new millionaires in China want classic Porsches,\u201d often regardless of driveline configuration. Demand is outstripping supply across the region, pushing prices skyward.<\/p><p>Then there\u2019s the production numbers. Limited builds are becoming far more desirable than they were just a few years ago. \u201cI had a 3.2 Clubsport that I sold,\u201d Ron recalls. \u201cThey only made 52 of them. No one cared about that detail when I bought it. I doubled my $75,000 investment when I sold it, and now that car is worth around $400,000.\u201d<\/p><p>In other words, the days of flying under the radar with a low-production 911 are long gone. If you\u2019re sitting on something rare and original, you might be holding a goldmine.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-293122262\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1318910711 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1318910711 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-293122262\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1318910711.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-293122262\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1318910711);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-want-a-bargain-buy-the-mongrel\">Want a bargain? Buy the mongrel<\/h2><figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/DSC6286-Bearbeitet-2000x1335-1100x734.jpg\" alt=\"Porsche 996 turbo in yellow\" class=\"wp-image-197382\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The unloved 996 could be an affordable way into the brand<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>The biggest generational shake-up in the 911 lineage came in 1998 with the arrival of the Type 996. This was the first ground-up redesign of the 911 since the model\u2019s inception. Gone was the air-cooled flat-six that had defined the car for decades. In came a brand-new water-cooled engine and an entirely modernised chassis, both designed to keep Porsche competitive in a rapidly changing automotive world.<\/p>                <div class=\"row row-center collapse\">\n                    <div class=\"column\">\n                        <div class=\"dmg-ad\"><div id=\"incontent-888925696\" class=\"ad-container\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">var load_1198160856 = function () {googletag.cmd.push(function () {var slot_1198160856 = googletag.defineSlot(\"\/1017963\/DMarge\/incontent\",[[250,250],[300,100],[300,250],[320,100],[336,280]],\"incontent-888925696\").addService(googletag.pubads()).setTargeting('refresh', 'true');if (gamData && gamData.sizeMap && gamData.sizeMap.hasOwnProperty('incontent')) {slot_1198160856.defineSizeMapping(gamData.sizeMap['incontent']);}googletag.display(\"incontent-888925696\");});};adsQueue.push(load_1198160856);<\/script><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <p>For many purists, the shift to water cooling was borderline sacrilegious. It marked the end of an era, and the beginning of a new, more commercial Porsche. But for those looking to enter the 911 club without mortgaging the house, this change is exactly what makes the 996 a potential bargain.<\/p><p>The styling didn\u2019t help its case. The now-infamous \u2018fried-egg\u2019 headlights\u2014shared with the Boxster\u2014divided opinions and made the 996 the black sheep of the 911 family. Yet under the surface, it was a capable, modern sports car with plenty of character.<\/p><p>In fact, the 996 generation introduced some of the most rewarding variants Porsche ever made. The 996 Turbo remains a favourite among enthusiasts for its brutal acceleration and all-wheel drive grip. Likewise, the 996 Carrera 4S with its wide body and distinctive styling cues is increasingly seen as a future classic.<\/p><p>Will it appreciate like the earlier air-cooled models? Probably not. But if you\u2019re after driving thrills and Porsche pedigree without the six-figure price tag, the 996 is a smart play.<\/p><p>So, that\u2019s the lay of the land. Not quite everything you need to know before buying your first 911, but it\u2019s enough to get you out of the slow lane. Do your research, trust your gut, and enjoy every second of the journey\u2014from the first inspection to the first time you push that flat-six to redline. Because in the end, owning a 911 isn\u2019t just about the car. It\u2019s about the stories you create with it.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Buy once, buy right&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":101116,"featured_media":491043,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"image","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":false,"_modified_date":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1167],"tags":[],"coauthors":[146471],"class_list":{"0":"post-197202","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-image","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-cars","8":"post_format-post-format-image"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197202","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/101116"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=197202"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197202\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":533188,"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197202\/revisions\/533188"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/491043"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=197202"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=197202"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=197202"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dmarge.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=197202"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}