Porsche 997 Owner Contemplates Going Air-Cooled
Modern cars like the Porsche 997 provide a much different ownership experience than old ones. So which do you prefer?
The appeal of an air-cooled Porsche cannot be denied. We all love ’em, even if we don’t own one. There’s just something about that primordial scream and raw driving experience that sucks us in much like those flat-six engines inhale air. Thus, we can’t blame Rennlist member TheBruce for thinking about parting ways with his Porsche 997 in an attempt to obtain an air-cooled ride. But he’s having a hard time pulling the trigger. Thus, he headed to the forums for some advice.
“I’ve had 20k miles of fun with my Porsche 997. However Werks ruined me. I saw a bunch of air-cooled hot rods and started thinking about building my own. I’ve decided I like the car projects as much as I like driving. I’ve fixed and cleaned everything that needed fixing and cleaning on my 997 and I’m bored.Â
Unfortunately, I don’t have the garage space or budget for two. So I listed my car to see what type of offers I would get. The good news is I got two local offers for 20% more than I paid after putting 20k miles on it. Not bad.”
Doesn’t sound too shabby. But many of our members caution that the OP won’t be getting the same type of ownership experience from an air-cooled car that he would from his Porsche 997, obviously.
“If you don’t mind having a non abs, no power steering, torsion bar car with 70s or 80s A/C system and a cabin that smells like oil or fuel once in a while, then you are fine,” says JQ911. “Since you love working on cars I think you will enjoy an air-cooled project. There is something different about driving old cars in general. Maybe because of their rawness, so it’s more engaging and you feel a connection.”
And as Petza914 points out, there are a lot of things to take into consideration when making this kind of switch.
“Using an older air-cooled 911 for daily duty isn’t going to be as easy, comfortable, or reliable as your Porsche 997. But it will be a different experience with both pros & cons. The driving dynamics are also quite different in the older cars before the 993 when the rear aluminum subframe was introduced. Much more pronounced rear pendulum effect, lighter front end feel. And more difficult yet entertaining to drive quickly. The Porsche 997 is a nice balance of that sensation from yesteryear while still being very capable and forgiving. Definitely drive a few before you decide what to do.”
Others, like DesmoSD, have similar words of caution. Especially given the OP’s past history.
“I remember your post from when you swapped your Porsche 997 for a 993. You asked what the hype was all about and how you described that the 993 drove like a truck. I suggest driving an old air-cooled 911 first before you decide. The 997 is considered the Goldilocks of the 911. So if you decide on an old 911 project, make sure you have all of the tools, welding know-how, and have space to support your project. Pre-galvanized cars, cutting panels, rotisseries, building jigs, those are all fun stuff. Best of luck on your decision.”
All of which are great points worth considering. But you can’t deny the allure of the air-cooled 911, that’s for sure. Thus, we want to know what you think. Would you ever consider trading your Porsche 997 (or other modern model) for an old one? Head over here and tell us why or why not!
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