The 997S is by far the most popular 997 variant and as you can see from the other guys, not without reason.

When Porsche introduced the gen-2 cars they actually narrowed the gap between standard Carrera and the S (with the standard car receiving larger brakes and Xenons etc), but the S's extra 40 horses, standard PASM, sexy 19-inch wheels and higher prestige still make it the most popular choice.

The new DFi engine is awesome. not only more powerful but also more fuel efficient with a better throttle response, and it also addresses many of the reliability concerns that can afflict the gen-1 engine.

For the full picture on the whole 997 range (including details of all options/specs, what to look for when inspecting the cars, running costs etc, etc) take a look at the new A4 guides website..............best of luck with your search

http://www.porsche997book.co.uk/

 

I have a non-S and I don't regret it since I want to stay within my budget. Besides, there is no way I can completely maximize the 911 potential in NYC metro area streets.

With that being said, I recently test drove a 2011 and 2013 911 S and 2008 Turbo just for kicks while I was at the dealership for CPO repairs. Do not test drive a Turbo, hopefully I'll upgrade to it when the time comes. I know there's no way I can drive the turbo to its full potential but WOW.

 

Probably more about what the dfi engine doesn't give you which is the IMS bearing and the all the drama surrounding it. The new engine seems at least bulletproof and maybe nuclear proof. If there's a story somewhere of a catastrophic failure of a DFI engine, I missed it. But if there is one, someone, please post the link. Would love to read it for perspective.

 

I think you should first consider the price premium for the S versus the base model, then assess the cost of aftermarket mods to narrow the gap. My calculus upon my own initial purchase when new was that the base model was by far the better value. I do not know how the two have depreciated relative to one another over time, but if the price spread remains meaningful, go with the base and amp it up. Unless you plan on tracking the car (in which case you should acquire a separate, dedicated "racing appliance"), you will find that a modified base model has more than enough power for any reasonable driving / touring need.

 

This is a very personal question. Firstly, I would say that if you want the S, then get the S. You will always regret it if you don't.

In my case, I was looking at a Boxster S, but was curious about a 911 and then realized that I was in the same ballpark price range. The Carrera S was at least $10k more and I was already $5-10k above my Boxster budget. After driving the base, I felt it was enough and chose not to spend the extra on the S. Of course, that means never driving an S (at least not until I'm ready to buy one...)

I'm delighted with my car. The only time when I long for an S is when reading these forums where people constantly harp on about how the base is underpowered. After reading these posts, I grab my keys and hit the twisties. Any sense of the car being underpowered evaporates instantly. YMMV.

Just get a 911. S or base - you'll love it.

 

what does YMMV mean, can't seem to figger it out...

 

Your mileage may vary. In other words, your experience may differ from mine.

 

Follow up report. I just sealed the deal and expect to pick the car up in about 7 days. Everyone's advice was spot on and budget, ultimately, was a deciding factor and here is why. I've worked really hard my whole life and it is a personal achievement to not take a single penny in loan for this car...by golly. If I stuck to my budget than I had to look at stellar 2007/2008 911 S cars and I found one She's Atlas Grey, Sport Chrono, Sport Seats, Fully leather, low miles and (drum roll) CPO to boot. Dang, me and the wife are going to have some adult fun with this car.

 

Congrads!!! Of coarse PIC s when you get it home. Nice color too. Cab or coupe? Auto I assume?

 

Big congrats!! Pictures??

 

Thanks. Very happy. This was my "dream" color.
It is a coupe and stick. I'm one of those guys Don't hate me!
Yes yes pics as soon as I get it home. I'll start a new thread so as not to confuse.

 

Congrats

 

oh yeah, my second favorite color behind creme white and macadamia, wait, my 3rd fav behind carrera, cream, and...wait, hey you know, there really aren't any bad colors on these...

 

I understand as I also have a coupe and a stick. It was the sport chrono that threw me off as they are usually not on 6 speeds as much. The benefits of chrono is mostly in the trans shifting of autos.

 

First off, HUGE congrats, and so thrilled to hear about your wife's improved health, that's great. Second, I was in the exact same position as you, I constrained myself budget-wise to an area that left me looking at '09 PDK-equipped non-S 997.2, and 997.1 S cars. Performance being very similar between the two, I ended up getting an '08 CPO 997.1S with a manual and haven't regretted it for one minute. You're going to absolutely LOVE it, I know I love mine. I've already put 7,500 miles on mine. In three weeks. Yes, I love it that much. My poor Harley is feeling neglected.