911, 991, 997. Three-digit numbers that are not only popular with mathematicians with a penchant for prime numbers, but also with sports car enthusiasts who are enthusiastic about four-wheeled icons from Zuffenhausen. It is almost impossible to do justice to the extensive model history of the Porsche 911 in just one text, which is why we dedicate this guide to the 991 and 997 series in particular.

We draw a comparison between the two successful predecessors of the current Porsche 992 with a view to their most important characteristics: design, performance and comfort.

1. Design evolution of a sports car icon: the unmistakable Porsche 911

2. Porsche 991 and 997 combine powerful boxer engines in the rear

3. Travel quickly and comfortably in the 991 and 997

4. Conclusion: duel at eye level

5. You will find the right vehicle with us

If the Porsche 991 and 997 hood to hood are facing each other and you look at them from the side, you only notice the subtle differences between the two models on closer inspection. The 997 looks slimmer and more compact than its younger brother and in fact the 991 has increased both in track width and vehicle length, as well as in the wheelbase, which has grown by ten centimeters compared to its predecessor.

The 991 is by no means impetuous, but retains its timeless elegance thanks to the comparatively flatter windshield and roof line. Another distinguishing feature is the rear lights, which since the facelift of the 997, also known as the 997.2, have also been equipped with LEDs like the 991. The taillights of the 991, despite its more voluminous rear section, are narrower than those of the 997 and ensure a well-proportioned rear view.

A few small differences between the two 991s can also be seen in the front headlights. The convex lights of the 997 nestle in a flowing transition against the trim of the front wheel arches. Those of the 993 remind fans of the Porsche 911, whose rather flat round lights still appear contemporary. A new XNUMX never makes its predecessor look old, because Porsche does not completely redesign new models of its popular sports car, but builds on the existing design and refines it.

Hardly any other car remains as true to its own design language as the Porsche 911. It all started with the original 1963, which with its streamlined silhouette set new standards in automotive design as early as XNUMX. The modern shape of the body of the first nine-eleven is made possible by its unique drive concept, which, thanks to the air-cooled boxer engine installed in the rear, can do without a front radiator grille.

The original model was followed by the G-model with black, safety-optimized bumpers, which was replaced in 1989 by the 964 with integrated and painted bumpers. The last 911 with an air-cooled boxer engine goes by the name 993 and heralded the end of an era. It was replaced by the 996, which was water-cooled for the first time, with the headlamp design that is being discussed among enthusiasts - it is obviously part of the design evolution of the unmistakable Porsche 911.

At B&K, we specialize in more than twenty manufacturers whose vehicles we offer, and above all in the cult brand Porsche. Our wide range of sports cars is peppered with models from all stages of the evolution of the XNUMX: the elegant Porsche 993 Carrera Cabriolet about the timeless classic 911 Carrera 3.2 Targa up to Porsche 997. If you are interested, please contact a B&K sports car expert and make an appointment today to view your dream helper.

The Porsche 2004, which was produced from 2012 to 997, has a standard 6-speed manual gearbox or, if required, the optional and lightning-fast Porsche Doppelkupplung, or PDK for short. When the model was changed to the 991, the PDK was adopted and the switching times were further improved. The standard 6-speed was replaced by a new, fuel-efficient manual transmission with seven gears - at the time a world first for a series vehicle.

For purists and everyone who prefers involved driving, a manual transmission is recommended when buying a 991 or 997. If, on the other hand, you are looking for maximum acceleration, we recommend the highly efficient and fast-shifting Porsche double clutch transmission. Paired with the powerful boxer engines, every Porsche 911 conveys an incomparable driving experience.

The naturally aspirated entry-level unit of the 997 develops an impressive 3,6 hp from a displacement of 325 liters and, as the Carrera 4, reaches a top speed of 280 km / h. With a displacement of 997 liters including turbocharging, the 3,6 Turbo variant achieves an output of immense 480 hp and a top speed of 310 km / h and thus pulls with the one also available from B&K Porsche RS 911 GT3 4.0 no matter which one is available from us.

Advocates or collectors of classic naturally aspirated engines are particularly well advised with the Porsche 991.1, because this is the last 911 to be available with naturally ventilated boxer engines in the power range from 350 hp for the Carrera to 560 hp for the Turbo S. Since the 991.2 facelift, the cult athlete has been powered exclusively by turbo engines, which offer more performance and better emission values, but do not differ too much in terms of engine characteristics from the 911 Turbo and Turbo S. We also recommend our 911 series comparison on this subject Porsche 991.1 versus 991.2 - is the facelift worth it?

The growth of the 991 is also noticeable in the interior when you take a seat on the sports seats taken over from the 997 and are now standard, or if you take a look at the somewhat more generous luggage compartment under the front hood. The space gained in the cockpit of the 991 is used by the prominently designed center console, which is in the style of the new model family.

Both 997.2 and 991 left the production halls as standard with Porsche Communication Management, PCM for short, which gives the driver easier access to the most important functions of the further developed infotainment system via a touchscreen.

Technical innovations were introduced in the 991 in the form of an electric handbrake and electrically assisted steering, comfort features that are sure to delight every sports car driver. Experienced drivers who insist on mechanical feedback while driving still have a sports car with a classic driving experience in the form of the 997, including hydraulic steering and handbrake lever.

Both interiors offer high-quality and durable materials with the highest level of workmanship typical for Porsche. A Porsche from the 991 and 997 series not only allows you to travel quickly, but also comfortably.

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The duel between the Porsche 991 versus the 997 both left as winners, because our comparison shows that both models have confidently carried on the DNA of the legendary 911. From a purely external point of view, the beholder's eye decides whether they like the slim and compact silhouette of the 997 or the body of the 991, which has grown in length and width.

Since the 997.2, the PCM including touchscreen and infotainment system has been on board as standard and, in addition to sports seats, high-quality materials and the best workmanship, ensures more comfort in the interior of both models. The more spacious 991 offers taller people a little more headroom and additional storage space. A unique selling point of the 997 is the handbrake lever, which is no longer available in newer models.

Both series are upgraded with a large selection of boxer engines in different cubic capacities and performance variants, which can be combined with manual gearboxes or Porsche double clutch transmissions, depending on the type of driver. For purists, we recommend the naturally aspirated version of the 997 with hydraulic steering. With the 991, you get additional electrical assistance during steering maneuvers, and since the model update 991.2, Porsche has equipped all engines with exhaust gas turbochargers for more power and efficiency, which should appeal to future-oriented sports car fans in particular.

As usual for the Porsche brand, the 997 and 991 score points with their high value retention. With professional maintenance, a steady increase in value will set in in the coming years and the sports car will act as a long-term investment.

Which 911 suits you, 991 or 997? Contact B&K Sportwagen and let one of our experts advise you. We keep individual sports car models ready for you at fair prices and, if you are interested, will be happy to make you an attractive offer. The impressive Porsche Turbo 996 and the exclusive Porsche 997 Turbo S Cabriolet are just a few examples from the selected B&K vehicle portfolio.