jackb911

2008 was the last year for the M96 engine - the one notorious for IMS and RMS issues.

2009-current have the redesigned 9A1 direct injection engine that doesn't have an intermediate shaft.

GT3's and 996/997 Turbos never had the M96, they use a water-cooled version of the "old" pretty-much-bulletproof Mezger engine. The 991 race cars continue to use the Mezger until the 9A1 competition version is ready for prime time.

Edinsf

The iceman doesn't need to own a 997 to know they are lame cars. You want your 997 to be a 2009 or newer. 05-08 997S's are the worst. Google 997S dchunk.

Coincident

I enjoyed my piece of junk 2006 997 S for 4 trouble free years. My brother likewise with his 2006 C4 which he still owns. Pretty good for such a lame car.

theiceman

Not so ridiculous ... I have never owned one and never well .. but i know LOTS of people who have had terminal engine failure .. 996 and 997 .. that statistically tells me that it is in fact NOT virtually nil.

Porsche has even admited to the design flaw. Also keep in mind the " value" of these cars is a LONG way from at the bottom of the market. If he buys any of these cars , especially 997s they will continue to diminish rapidly in value.

theiceman

just to be clear i did not say they were lame cars .. they are great cars ...... until they break ....
When playing Russian roulette it doesnt hurt at all and life is great .. till the gun goes off..

, IMS failure , cyclinder ovaling and I did completely forget about the D chunk issue .. Just not a gamble I am willing to to make .. maybe those of you with deep pockets are willing ..