‘Rennlist’ 911 Showdown: 996 Turbo or 997 Carerra S?

Considering a fairly similar price range, the choice between a 996 911 Turbo and 997 Carerra S boils down to looks and performance. 

The 996 Turbo 911 and the 997 S model are currently floating in a similar price range. Thus, there have been some heated debates about which one is the better call. There are many varying opinions on this, and Mjposner on the Rennlist forums asks which users would choose, assuming the same color and condition.  While some prefer the 996 and some prefer the 997, we must say that there are many great points brought up on both sides of the argument.

For example, user Topkatz expresses his preference to the 997.

“For me, the styling and interior updates to the 997 trumps the turbo. Even then, I love the NA 3.8 sound and power band,” he says.

Unquestionably, the dated looks of the 996 in comparison to the 997 come up among 911 enthusiasts quite frequently.

“997 for sure. Interior and Exterior styling are much more to my liking. Many other items are improved or more modern as well,” says user Anewman.

“As sweet as the engine is in the Turbo, I can’t choose it on the engine alone, as the rest of the car’s experience matters to me too. After owning a 986 based Boxster for many years, that interior just seems too old and dated now, and also I don’t like the older weird-shaped headlamps on the 996 models which look like Shrek ears to me. I’d choose the 997,” says Boxtaboy.

“With my eyes figuratively closed, the 996TT, but I can’t do the 996 front or interior looks. The 997 just looks and feels so much better,” says user Petza914.

While we tend to agree that the 997 looks generations newer than it’s predecessor, you still can’t completely discredit the 996. It is still purely a 911, and it’s hard to argue with the price point. Though the sentiment seems pretty consistently in favor of the 997, there are some 996 fans in this thread.

“If comparing 997.2 S vs. 996 Turbo, that would be a hard choice. I’m not sure which one I would pick. But if you’re talking 997.1 S, then I pick 996 Turbo all day every day,” says Php.

“997S is a great car. No question. You didn’t mention which year – but post-2009 even better. However, the 996 turbo has an amazing motor and performance. Small upgrades will go a long way, and prices are low compared to the car you get. I would go 996 turbo,” says 177Mph.

Though the 996 does have a couple of fans, the answer seems clear. The general consensus is the 997 is the choice to make here. Though, we certainly can’t discredit the 996. In it’s prime, it was cutting edge. While some regard it as the worst looking 911 of all time, and we can’t entirely disagree, we still love them. There’s no shame in a 996! However, if a 997 is on the table, you’ll likely be happier with it.

Photos: Porsche

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