McLaren 570s. Totally different, but I encourage you to go that route...As good/if not better driving feel of the older porsches with another level of performance/excitement/theatre @@ofreed3973
@@dng992 997.2 C2S manual is what I have. Driving experience is incredible and at my Porsche club, those who sold the 997.2 they had to upgrade regret the decision.
Great video Luke. Ive been lucky to have a 991.2 GTS and currently have a 997.1 turbo, ill take the 997 every day, i love the retro feeling and it has enough mod cons to keep me happy. The 991 you are correct is big step forward in tech but it feels so much bigger. Great channel, keep up the great work.
Great video. Thank you for this. 997.2 owner here. Both these models I feel would be keepers in the years to come. A 997.x for its last throw of the mechanical dice. A 991.1 being the transition to the new regulations whilst keeping the best bits from the old era (sans hydraulic steering of course).
I have a 991. The one mistake in my order was the sunroof, after a couple of years it started to rattle, particularly in the winter. Also my engine struts failed (bad third party bit?), coincidentally. Other than that I love my car and it's dark blue metallic as well.
As always another great video. One point to note for those with narrow garages is that due to the clever positioning of the side mirrors on the doors of the 991 the actual full width of both cars with the mirrors folded out are the same even though the body of the 991 is much wider. So you get the extra cabin space width without penalty when driving between in tight spaces. Also the 991 does come with optional electric folding mirrors unlike the 997.
Nice video! I own a 991.1 C4S with Sport Chrono and although the 997 has a bit more 911'ness (like each of the previous generations), there's no way I'd swap mine. It does literally everything and has a dual personality that I love: It's fast enough for the road and at 7,200rpm the NA engine with PSE is spine tingling, the handling is epic and it just grips and grips, yet on a longer journey it's so comfortable, practical, even economical (on a motorway) - with the 7 speed PDK and Sailing function.. People who say it's BIG should try driving a Gallardo down a country lane, that feels way wider. The footprint of the 991 is no bigger than a mid sized hatch back or crossover. The only thing I'd improve is the suspension compliance in Normal PASM mode. Fitting a DSC Sport unit has helped but it could still be better. Other than that there's nothing. A car for all occasions.
@@dng992 Not sure what I can add really - it's just that the 991.1 suits me. Every new 911 performs better than the last but trades something in the process. If you were to drive an early short nose 911, Vs a 993, you would think there was no comparison but the SWB car is just 'different' and requires the owner to accommodate some of its foibles and 'earn' it's capability. It all depends what you want from a 911 and your particular wants & needs. With the '992' part of your name, I'm guessing you either already own (or are leaning towards) the current model, which is a fantastic car. Anyone who's in the market for a 'modern' 911 should just go drive a 996, 997, 991 or 992 back to back and see what suits them. There is no bad, better or worse 911, just the one that's right for you.
@@markdavis911time i know this comment is a year old but just wanted to say this is a fantastic piece for people considering between a 997.2 and a 991.1 such as myself. I've only driven a 996 and a 997 and I really fell in love with the way the 997 communicated. It has its foibles as you said but down a backroad I felt like the clarity in communication between what it liked and didn't like in terms of inputs and cornering line really gave it a lovely personality. However a friend was asking me to have a go in a 991 before making my decision as they're significantly more competent as a complete package and as an only car. Congratulations on your C4S by the way! The spec sounds like exactly something I'd plump for.
@@Aurum458 Thanks, I'd forgotten this comment but another year in it still holds true for me. A friend has just upgraded from a 991.1 GTS, to a 992 GTS and although it's technically a better, faster car, I'm still in love with my 991 and I know there are times where he misses the NA sound. The comfort of the 991 was the clincher for me but I still look at the 997 and wonder if on a Sunday morning... Oh to have a garage full 😂 Have a try of a 991 and see what you think. Good luck with your search and when you do get 'the one', enjoy in good health. Best wishes 👍
The intake sound pump is a great idea! At least it’s the real engine sound and not a synthesised sound coming from the speakers. Faked engine sound coming through the speakers should be turned off!
The electronic thermostat enabling cooler running in sport mode is a nice design feature, obviously running hotter in standard driving mode to keep the emissions lower. Opening the engine compartment to see a mass of plastic covering is disappointing, on my 997 I like to look at the coolant pipes/joins for any signs of weeping, serpent belt condition, and just a general check around etc, I would have anxiety with a 991. I'm not ready for a 991, too modern for me especially with EPS, less connection with the road can't be a good thing.
Coming from a 997.1 to a 991.1, I way prefer the 991.1. A much better engine, more sound, feedback and pdk is lighten it fast. Feels far more modern inside. Each to their own..
I own a 997.1 and can attest to the soul versus tool analogy. I am not looking for the fastest car from 0 to 60 nor a car with multiple nanny features - I’m looking for a spirited drive in a modern classic and the 997 is the best of both worlds. Cheer from Round Rock, Texas.
The very first edition Z4 had an intake resonator which was piped to the cabin. You could remove the internals from it for a Sound upgrade, it sounded very loud if you removed the two pieces. A good all rounder was just removing one piece of soun deadening from it. It was exactly the same concept though, just minus the actuator. You could trace the line back to the air intake.
I’ve got both, and the 997 feels like the last of the true 911’s. The 991 is faster and more capable, but the 997 is a peach. Neither car feels anything like as special as a TVR Cerbera ;-)
Hi Luke, regarding your comment about the Sports button on the 991: if you have a 997S with the X51 powerkit option, then you get a single Sports button which engages the PASM and also the PSE - ie no separate buttons, just enhanced throttle response, suspension and the louder exhaust.
Hi Luke, a great constructive comparison, really interesting, I think it would be nice to occasionally mix up your normal videos with something like this, looking to use your services in the future, I like your honesty
I would never own a car that had such a small engine compartment as does the 991. I like to work on my own cars and need to see and access what all is going on. Even my 997 could have been built with the rear lid hinge about 3 inches more towards the rear wind screen for an even wider opening - much like the 3.2L from the 80's. I think Porsche would rather build cars that only they can service. This makes me sad.
I agree! One could interpret the lack of engine compartment as an implication from Porsche that; "owners don't know what they're looking at back there, let alone how to service it, so lets keep them away from their engine and ensure they come back to us to work on it".
That’s a reason why I like the 997 over the 991. I don’t want to have to spend 20 minutes removing the tail lights and bumper just to be able to get access to the engine. I get that they want you to take the car to the dealer for service but they also often fail to put all the screws and clips back the way it was when reassembling, and are not as careful as if the car was their own. I love that I can just open my engine lid to quickly check my drive belt or coolant tank condition, or see if there’s any obvious leaks.
@@carreralicious Many 991 owners are enthusiasts but not necessarily engineers, the engine and control systems in the 991 are considerably more complex than most home mechanics are capable of dealing with and the majority of UK cars have a Porsche extended warranty in place, so aside from a simple oil change (which can be undertaken without removing the rear bumper) most 991 owners will take their car to an OPC or Indie specialist. I work on my own 991 C4S wherever possible and have a copy of the factory manual but my approach probably represents only 1% of current 991 owners. Sad but true.
@@markdavis911time Thanks, I hear what you are saying, but I guess I don’t think you should have to remove the tail lights, bumper and all that just to change a simple engine air filter (which shouldn’t require you to be an engineer). And like I said, when you have someone else do the work, they invariably do not replace all the little screws and clips back when reassembling, and you won’t see that. Even when I changed my engine air filter in my own 997, I discovered that the dealer who did it previously (I had records of the work done before I purchased it), they didn’t replace one of the grommets sitting below the air filter housing and the other one on the other side was not sitting correctly in the hole. Sloppy work which if I did it myself (and now do), it would get done right. I have an aftermarket warranty so any major malfunctions or work, I would not do myself either, but it’s nice to be able to look in your engine bay to check the condition of the belt and hoses even if you are not removing items, to see if there are leaks or problems once in a while without having to remove all that crap. When you remove things like bumpers or tail lights that have clips, you always risk damaging something. Even electrical clips can break. It’s just a shame they don’t allow you to just open an engine lid. I also don’t like that even in my 997, there’s no real oil dipstick to check the level, as the electronic reading is not always accurate.
@@carreraliciousLike you, I lament the reduction in ease of access and physically being able to see an engine but removing the rear bumper isn't that hard and items like air filters and belts don't need to be changed as regularly as they used to, so I'm happy to change the oil/filter once a year (for my own peace of mind) and remove the rear to do the air filters, plugs and belts once every 3-4 years. My days of being elbow deep in engines are probably past anyway :) Whichever model, we're lucky to drive a car as iconic as the 911 - enjoy in good health.
Thanks for the video. Would you mind comparing R35 and 991 CarreraS for maintenance, daily driving, common issues? Not for performance :) From the price perspective, both are quite similar. But people have different reviews for those models. As an R35 owner, your comments are very valuable for me. Thanks
I have a 996 for the retro look and vibe for days I feel like that. Yesterday being one of them. I don't really feel the need or desire to flog it hard. And I have a 981 S with factory sport suspension and OEM 20" Carrera wheels like on your 991. It's a much more intense experience and in a whole different league. Night and day performance wise. The feel in the cockpit is pleasingly similar less the modern stuff but the overall look and feel is similar. The intake and exhaust sounds in sport mode in the 981 are fabulous. And you do feel a significant boost in performance in the 3.4 981 S in sport mode. My biggest concern is quite real and that is the 991 series and to some extent the 981 at least in S trim are becoming out of reach for regular guys to buy. Even the now older 991 cars are huge money and I don't see them coming down. I see the chance to own a 911 is slipping away for most. The 996-7 being the last affordable versions and the 991's staying out of reach. I love your channel and watch all the videos and agree with everything you said in this one. Btw the shifting console is raised and similar to the Carrera GT for a more direct reach to the shifter. And it is amazing.
I used to own 997.1 Carrera S coupe with -20mm sport chassie which was too stiff (I hated the ride comfort) but gave me LSD which, at time, you cannot have it with the cars that have pasm.
The 991 is a subtle messaged 997 where the rough edges are rounded off. Both are beautiful cars but the 997 is the sweet spot where car and driver are more engaged.
great video have owned a 997.2 4s and now have a 991.1 4s and really love both cars regretted selling the 997 so bought the 991 to replace it and will not sell it anytime soon
@@dng992 Hi to be very honest I prefer my 991.1 but the 997.2 is a fantastic car and I was over the moon with mine when I sold it I regretted it almost immediately and started looking for a replacement but the miles on a replacement were higher than I wanted so got a low mileage 991.1 so opted for that I feel both cars are holding their values well I suggest you drive both models and then you will know which you prefer
yes thats very sensible to test drive both - only done the 997.2s so far but as you say you dont really know any different unless you get in the newer one. that said im buying online right now so not sure if I will test drive , ironically.. how did you feel the profile of the cars differes. people say the 991.1 is more a GT car and pretty big, but how big is big? does the 997.2 being a smaller car really feel quite different
@@dng992 Hi the 991.1 is much smoother and not so harsh both mine were pdk boxes and the new one is much smoother to the feel, the wheel base is 4 inches longer than the 997 I am not sure what the total length of the car is in comparison but it seems much the same to me They say it is more like a gt car but I do not find that but I am not driving the car to anything like its ability Also the newer one is more up to date with driver info on the dash but as I say both cars are fantastic and bullet prove
Great comparative analysis, but surprised you didn’t compare the 6 speed vs 7 speed manual trans. We know the PDK is super….but, is the 7 speed a bit too much (more gears aren’t necessarily better, eh?)
I’ve had a 997.1 and a 997.2 C4S, now I have a 991.2 C4S…and it’s far superior with the RWS and PDCC. Sure it doesn’t have the loud growl the others did, but besides that…it’s far better
Fantastic video. Cannot wait for the next one. The note about the reduced glass area is really interesting. Is that why the older cars look better in some peoples opinion?
Question: I have a 996 turbo cab and wanted something less powerful / playful (and am going to keep the 996). I was debating between 997.2S or 991.1S. There’s another option of adding a 987.2 or 981 boxster instead of another 911. Wdyt?
I've driven 996 C2/C4, 997. 1 C2, and 992 C4S and the truth is that ALL 3 of the older ones were more engaging and exploitable on public roads. Steering feedback and sound of the 997 was my favorite. Of course the 992 was faster, but believe it or not... Fast can get a little old. Don't believe me? Just ask anyone with a Superbike.
I'm a few months late, but the comments have been so informative here that I'll ask. Which would you choose between a 997.2 vs 991.1 both Carrera C2S and with auto transmissions (was originally searching for a 997 manual, but spouse had knee surgery and won't be able to drive manual. Luckily I have a mkIV Golf R32 for my manual fix!) I'll be driving both for sure before purchasing. Thanks 👍
Looks like some subtle fab improvements. You didn't give us a summary of your final thoughts of the model were. Is it a transformation or more of an evolution? Think it's a sin that they weren't all supplied with the Sports design steering wheel though. 👍
I replaced my 997.2 with a 991.1 two years ago and have to say, it is a huge leap in almost every term (sportiness, handling/agility, interieur, quality etc). You definitely feel the „upgrade“. BUT the 997.2 is more rough/more pure, so it‘s all up to preference (and budget).
They’re all great to drive, things to love about each. I’d have one of each generation if I had room for them all 😊. My favorite thing about the 991 over the 997 are the interior ergonomics (seating position, steering wheel/shifter placement, etc.) but I love how the 997 feels a bit smaller and more intimate. The 991 feels more precise and stable in turns, easier to drive fast comfortably, but the 997 is also a lot of fun in the twisties. At the end of the day, any 911 represents the best sports car experience of its period, and even a 50 year old one is still an excellent sports car experience today.
Electronic handbrake is push to go on and pull to go off for security reasons. If you knock it accidentally it goes on and not off which could then leave the car without the handbrake on 😉
@@NoRegertsHere they’re not a huge step up from the 996 tbh. The .2 certainly is. The problem is the routine maintenance of an old car. They’re reliable enough but corrosion of parts is very expensive to rectify. My last bill was £12,000
Both cars are exceptional. Ask Owner’s of both cars which one they would give up if they had to and I believe most would give up the 997. The 991 is a significantly better car all around, inside and out.
Is the 991 an S? I'm test driving a 991.1 base next week and, like many others, am wondering if I'm losing any fidelity going for a base model. Loved the video!
They’re both equally quick anywhere but a racetrack really, the thing that makes the 991.1 so good and frankly more fun than the .2 is that you can be in the 4000-8000rpm range without going dangerously fast on public roads, both have equal grip and sound brilliant, the less displacement and torque of the base car just gets made up for with more RPM which isn’t a bad thing
@@themadhatter444 it’s well worth it mate I spent 2 years hunting for mine, then it got stolen 2 months after I got it by some kid, took 3 months to get it back on the road but its one of the great 911s of all time, practical enough to be a perfect daily driver but with so much performance that it will always be fast. In an age of turbos its hard to go past that scream at 8000rpm, do get the PSE and sports chrono if you can they’re key to the experience whether manual or PDK.
The center console on the 991 is just so unpleasant. It separates you from your passenger and makes the interior feel cramped, even though the 991 has a larger interior. Overall the 991 interior is much more attractive and higher quality, but that center console kills it for me.
I suppose it depends on whether you want the car to perform as a comfortable and spacious cruiser, or a more driver-orientated sports car. I want my 911 to feel like the latter, which is why I like the raised centre console, as it helps the driver’s positioning feel more like a cockpit.
From your comments on pushing vs pulling on the parking brake release, I can tell you're under 40 years old. Pulling that lever to turn off the handbrake has been the standard since cars had pull parking brakes,
Hi JPM, Thank you for your comment. What cars have had a pull lever to let the parking brake off? P.S I hope I don’t look anywhere close to 40! KR, Luke
I drive both everyday 997-1 991 -1 There both great everyday sports cars Why choose buy both !!! The 991 did drive much better with a mild tune from fab speed I couldn’t help myself.
997 all the way. The raised center column (from the 981/991 onwards) is horrid...it just highlights all the blank buttons and notable options one didn’t spec.
Owned both, 997 built like a tank tries to kill you every now and again, 991 very pretty not as well made better daily driver both cars were carrera s versions I will do my final porsche upgrade next year and buy a 991 turbo s or a 991.2 the 992 holds no appeal for me the 991.2 the torque low down is very nice but ill see for now my 991.1 is a beaut and drives faster than I can.
The thing with the handbrake is I’ve noticed in 6 months Ive had my 991.1 C2S, as a bulky 6’2 bloke I frequently bump my knee into the handbrake while getting in and out of the car, so you really can only have it push to engage and pull to disengage in that position, or you would be accidentally disengaging the handbrake while exiting the vehicle which would be pretty scary if you hadn’t left it in gear. Better to fail safe than fail deadly for sure
You are a true car guy, fantastic comparison between the two cars. I'm old school so I like the 997.
Drive the 997 S and and will keep driving it! The experience, for me and many others, is visceral and unmatched.
looking at the 997s and 991.1S - what would you be your thoughts?
@@dng992Hi! What have you decided?
McLaren 570s. Totally different, but I encourage you to go that route...As good/if not better driving feel of the older porsches with another level of performance/excitement/theatre @@ofreed3973
@@dng992
997.2 C2S manual is what I have. Driving experience is incredible and at my Porsche club, those who sold the 997.2 they had to upgrade regret the decision.
Great video Luke. Ive been lucky to have a 991.2 GTS and currently have a 997.1 turbo, ill take the 997 every day, i love the retro feeling and it has enough mod cons to keep me happy. The 991 you are correct is big step forward in tech but it feels so much bigger. Great channel, keep up the great work.
I have a 991.1 c2s and was thinking of a GTS however prefer the NA engine what's your thoughts on a 991.1 gas or 991.2 ?
Thanks for your views. It's interesting to hear that you prefer the 997 over its younger brother.
I’ve got a 997.2 C2S manual. How do you think that compares to a 997.1 turbo? Was considering potentially switching
@@friendsgreenporsche5234driving experience is different, most ppl in my porche club prefer the 997 experience
Great video. Thank you for this. 997.2 owner here.
Both these models I feel would be keepers in the years to come.
A 997.x for its last throw of the mechanical dice. A 991.1 being the transition to the new regulations whilst keeping the best bits from the old era (sans hydraulic steering of course).
Couldn't resist. I watched this video went straight out for a drive in my 991.
Finally! Someone who explains well and in clear plain English the differences between these Porsches. Thank you sir
I do love the 997, I think it is the perfect size for a Porsche however I love the better interior of the 991
The interior of the 991 is definitely the better place to be.
I was thinking of trading my 997.1 tt for a newer 991 but after driving the much larger feeling 991 I decided against it. Great video. Thanks
When comparing the two cars from the front, I thought that the 997 looked closer to the classic 911s of the past
Agreed. I think it has striking similarities to the 993!
997 looks more elegant and uncluttered.
I just sold my 981 GT4, bought my second 997 S while waiting on a 718 Spyder, there is just something special about a manual 997S
Another top film Luke, thanks!! The 991 looks WAY bigger than just a couple of inches though!
Great video! I learned alot about the 991.1 even after watching dozens of 991 videos over the past few weeks. Well done!
I have a 991. The one mistake in my order was the sunroof, after a couple of years it started to rattle, particularly in the winter. Also my engine struts failed (bad third party bit?), coincidentally. Other than that I love my car and it's dark blue metallic as well.
As always another great video. One point to note for those with narrow garages is that due to the clever positioning of the side mirrors on the doors of the 991 the actual full width of both cars with the mirrors folded out are the same even though the body of the 991 is much wider. So you get the extra cabin space width without penalty when driving between in tight spaces. Also the 991 does come with optional electric folding mirrors unlike the 997.
Very good points. Thanks, Bob.
Loving my 996 bought from FGP a yr ago, even lighter and smaller than the 997!
Fantastic review thank you for posting, love the sport mode noise.
The 991 looks huge compared to the petite 997
Yup, absolutely, and the wheels date the 997.
Nice video! I own a 991.1 C4S with Sport Chrono and although the 997 has a bit more 911'ness (like each of the previous generations), there's no way I'd swap mine. It does literally everything and has a dual personality that I love: It's fast enough for the road and at 7,200rpm the NA engine with PSE is spine tingling, the handling is epic and it just grips and grips, yet on a longer journey it's so comfortable, practical, even economical (on a motorway) - with the 7 speed PDK and Sailing function..
People who say it's BIG should try driving a Gallardo down a country lane, that feels way wider. The footprint of the 991 is no bigger than a mid sized hatch back or crossover.
The only thing I'd improve is the suspension compliance in Normal PASM mode. Fitting a DSC Sport unit has helped but it could still be better. Other than that there's nothing. A car for all occasions.
would be good to hear more about the footprint. I dont have much car experience to compare to, what cars would you say 991 is like vs 997
@@dng992 Not sure what I can add really - it's just that the 991.1 suits me. Every new 911 performs better than the last but trades something in the process. If you were to drive an early short nose 911, Vs a 993, you would think there was no comparison but the SWB car is just 'different' and requires the owner to accommodate some of its foibles and 'earn' it's capability. It all depends what you want from a 911 and your particular wants & needs. With the '992' part of your name, I'm guessing you either already own (or are leaning towards) the current model, which is a fantastic car.
Anyone who's in the market for a 'modern' 911 should just go drive a 996, 997, 991 or 992 back to back and see what suits them. There is no bad, better or worse 911, just the one that's right for you.
991 c4s whatta car
@@markdavis911time i know this comment is a year old but just wanted to say this is a fantastic piece for people considering between a 997.2 and a 991.1 such as myself. I've only driven a 996 and a 997 and I really fell in love with the way the 997 communicated. It has its foibles as you said but down a backroad I felt like the clarity in communication between what it liked and didn't like in terms of inputs and cornering line really gave it a lovely personality. However a friend was asking me to have a go in a 991 before making my decision as they're significantly more competent as a complete package and as an only car. Congratulations on your C4S by the way! The spec sounds like exactly something I'd plump for.
@@Aurum458 Thanks, I'd forgotten this comment but another year in it still holds true for me. A friend has just upgraded from a 991.1 GTS, to a 992 GTS and although it's technically a better, faster car, I'm still in love with my 991 and I know there are times where he misses the NA sound.
The comfort of the 991 was the clincher for me but I still look at the 997 and wonder if on a Sunday morning...
Oh to have a garage full 😂
Have a try of a 991 and see what you think. Good luck with your search and when you do get 'the one', enjoy in good health. Best wishes 👍
The intake sound pump is a great idea! At least it’s the real engine sound and not a synthesised sound coming from the speakers. Faked engine sound coming through the speakers should be turned off!
Luke thanks for the review, i take the 991 if i had to. All 911 look good old or new.
Great video - 991 looked huge next to the 997 👌
The electronic thermostat enabling cooler running in sport mode is a nice design feature, obviously running hotter in standard driving mode to keep the emissions lower. Opening the engine compartment to see a mass of plastic covering is disappointing, on my 997 I like to look at the coolant pipes/joins for any signs of weeping, serpent belt condition, and just a general check around etc, I would have anxiety with a 991. I'm not ready for a 991, too modern for me especially with EPS, less connection with the road can't be a good thing.
Coming from a 997.1 to a 991.1, I way prefer the 991.1. A much better engine, more sound, feedback and pdk is lighten it fast. Feels far more modern inside. Each to their own..
It would be 997 any day for me. The 991 looks huge and seems far less analogue. 991 undoubtedly has immense capability, but is a tool. 997 has soul.
I like your "tool/soul" analogue. Forgive me if I steal it and use it in a future video.
@@friendsgreenporsche5234 Feel free, i don't own the copyright! Keep up the great videos
I own a 997.1 and can attest to the soul versus tool analogy. I am not looking for the fastest car from 0 to 60 nor a car with multiple nanny features - I’m looking for a spirited drive in a modern classic and the 997 is the best of both worlds. Cheer from Round Rock, Texas.
911's are just the biz! 997 with the 991 read end would be perfect!
The very first edition Z4 had an intake resonator which was piped to the cabin. You could remove the internals from it for a Sound upgrade, it sounded very loud if you removed the two pieces. A good all rounder was just removing one piece of soun deadening from it.
It was exactly the same concept though, just minus the actuator. You could trace the line back to the air intake.
Luke! You magnificent bastard! I own a 997.1 and now you have at least made me question. I do love my hydraulic steering but, I am left to wonder. 🤔
I'm not so sure on magnificent! I've not made my mind up on which I prefer yet, although I'm sure I will soon.
Excellent review, very informative, thank you
Just bought a 2013 991. Love sport mode 😀
How are you getting on with your 991?
@@valicourt I'm absolutely loving it.
I’ve got both, and the 997 feels like the last of the true 911’s.
The 991 is faster and more capable, but the 997 is a peach.
Neither car feels anything like as special as a TVR Cerbera ;-)
Great comparison. Cheers!
Hi Luke, regarding your comment about the Sports button on the 991: if you have a 997S with the X51 powerkit option, then you get a single Sports button which engages the PASM and also the PSE - ie no separate buttons, just enhanced throttle response, suspension and the louder exhaust.
Hi Luke, a great constructive comparison, really interesting, I think it would be nice to occasionally mix up your normal videos with something like this, looking to use your services in the future, I like your honesty
The parking brake release pulls towards you because that's how parking brake releases work on everything with a foot pedal brake
Very nice and enlightening comparison. Though the 991 is very nice obviously, I'd prefer the 997. Keep up the nice video's please.
Very good and informative video! Thank you and keep up the good work 👍
I would never own a car that had such a small engine compartment as does the 991. I like to work on my own cars and need to see and access what all is going on. Even my 997 could have been built with the rear lid hinge about 3 inches more towards the rear wind screen for an even wider opening - much like the 3.2L from the 80's. I think Porsche would rather build cars that only they can service. This makes me sad.
I agree! One could interpret the lack of engine compartment as an implication from Porsche that; "owners don't know what they're looking at back there, let alone how to service it, so lets keep them away from their engine and ensure they come back to us to work on it".
That’s a reason why I like the 997 over the 991. I don’t want to have to spend 20 minutes removing the tail lights and bumper just to be able to get access to the engine. I get that they want you to take the car to the dealer for service but they also often fail to put all the screws and clips back the way it was when reassembling, and are not as careful as if the car was their own. I love that I can just open my engine lid to quickly check my drive belt or coolant tank condition, or see if there’s any obvious leaks.
@@carreralicious Many 991 owners are enthusiasts but not necessarily engineers, the engine and control systems in the 991 are considerably more complex than most home mechanics are capable of dealing with and the majority of UK cars have a Porsche extended warranty in place, so aside from a simple oil change (which can be undertaken without removing the rear bumper) most 991 owners will take their car to an OPC or Indie specialist.
I work on my own 991 C4S wherever possible and have a copy of the factory manual but my approach probably represents only 1% of current 991 owners. Sad but true.
@@markdavis911time Thanks, I hear what you are saying, but I guess I don’t think you should have to remove the tail lights, bumper and all that just to change a simple engine air filter (which shouldn’t require you to be an engineer). And like I said, when you have someone else do the work, they invariably do not replace all the little screws and clips back when reassembling, and you won’t see that. Even when I changed my engine air filter in my own 997, I discovered that the dealer who did it previously (I had records of the work done before I purchased it), they didn’t replace one of the grommets sitting below the air filter housing and the other one on the other side was not sitting correctly in the hole. Sloppy work which if I did it myself (and now do), it would get done right. I have an aftermarket warranty so any major malfunctions or work, I would not do myself either, but it’s nice to be able to look in your engine bay to check the condition of the belt and hoses even if you are not removing items, to see if there are leaks or problems once in a while without having to remove all that crap. When you remove things like bumpers or tail lights that have clips, you always risk damaging something. Even electrical clips can break. It’s just a shame they don’t allow you to just open an engine lid. I also don’t like that even in my 997, there’s no real oil dipstick to check the level, as the electronic reading is not always accurate.
@@carreraliciousLike you, I lament the reduction in ease of access and physically being able to see an engine but removing the rear bumper isn't that hard and items like air filters and belts don't need to be changed as regularly as they used to, so I'm happy to change the oil/filter once a year (for my own peace of mind) and remove the rear to do the air filters, plugs and belts once every 3-4 years.
My days of being elbow deep in engines are probably past anyway :)
Whichever model, we're lucky to drive a car as iconic as the 911 - enjoy in good health.
Thanks for the video. Would you mind comparing R35 and 991 CarreraS for maintenance, daily driving, common issues? Not for performance :) From the price perspective, both are quite similar. But people have different reviews for those models. As an R35 owner, your comments are very valuable for me.
Thanks
I have a 996 for the retro look and vibe for days I feel like that. Yesterday being one of them. I don't really feel the need or desire to flog it hard. And I have a 981 S with factory sport suspension and OEM 20" Carrera wheels like on your 991. It's a much more intense experience and in a whole different league. Night and day performance wise. The feel in the cockpit is pleasingly similar less the modern stuff but the overall look and feel is similar. The intake and exhaust sounds in sport mode in the 981 are fabulous. And you do feel a significant boost in performance in the 3.4 981 S in sport mode. My biggest concern is quite real and that is the 991 series and to some extent the 981 at least in S trim are becoming out of reach for regular guys to buy. Even the now older 991 cars are huge money and I don't see them coming down. I see the chance to own a 911 is slipping away for most. The 996-7 being the last affordable versions and the 991's staying out of reach. I love your channel and watch all the videos and agree with everything you said in this one. Btw the shifting console is raised and similar to the Carrera GT for a more direct reach to the shifter. And it is amazing.
Thanks
But what about the road noise compared to the 997 and the 996 ?
Great review, thanks
I used to own 997.1 Carrera S coupe with -20mm sport chassie which was too stiff (I hated the ride comfort) but gave me LSD which, at time, you cannot have it with the cars that have pasm.
Great video! It will be the move I make from my 987 one day. I think it will be the 991 tho, looks lovely and chunky, oh and key is better lol.
Lol the gripe about the actuation of the e brake is soooo true - my 2017 Cayenne every time i go to use the e brake it bloody confuses me .
The 991 is a subtle messaged 997 where the rough edges are rounded off. Both are beautiful cars but the 997 is the sweet spot where car and driver are more engaged.
Great look at a 911 👍🏾
great video have owned a 997.2 4s and now have a 991.1 4s and really love both cars regretted selling the 997 so bought the 991 to replace it and will not sell it anytime soon
for a first youngish owner what would you recommend? im leaning towards 997.2S...but still i dont know lol
@@dng992 Hi to be very honest I prefer my 991.1 but the 997.2 is a fantastic car and I was over the moon with mine when I sold it I regretted it almost immediately and started looking for a replacement but the miles on a replacement were higher than I wanted so got a low mileage 991.1 so opted for that I feel both cars are holding their values well I suggest you drive both models and then you will know which you prefer
yes thats very sensible to test drive both - only done the 997.2s so far but as you say you dont really know any different unless you get in the newer one. that said im buying online right now so not sure if I will test drive , ironically..
how did you feel the profile of the cars differes. people say the 991.1 is more a GT car and pretty big, but how big is big?
does the 997.2 being a smaller car really feel quite different
@@dng992 Hi the 991.1 is much smoother and not so harsh both mine were pdk boxes and the new one is much smoother to the feel, the wheel base is 4 inches longer than the 997 I am not sure what the total length of the car is in comparison but it seems much the same to me They say it is more like a gt car but I do not find that but I am not driving the car to anything like its ability Also the newer one is more up to date with driver info on the dash but as I say both cars are fantastic and bullet prove
Well done m8 good drive
Both are nice cars. The 997 is just sexier. Plus the difference in width is an issue for things like parking.
Sunroof delete will give you cleaner lines on any 911 coupes.
For me, the larger sun roof is a definite improvement on the 991, both practically and aesthetically.
I’d be interested to know whether the 3.4 is enough engine? It certainly seems so.
I'd say so!
Great comparative analysis, but surprised you didn’t compare the 6 speed vs 7 speed manual trans. We know the PDK is super….but, is the 7 speed a bit too much (more gears aren’t necessarily better, eh?)
….I was going to mention the same ! 👍😀
That engine sounds epic though. Especially the 3rd to 4th shift.
I’ve had a 997.1 and a 997.2 C4S, now I have a 991.2 C4S…and it’s far superior with the RWS and PDCC. Sure it doesn’t have the loud growl the others did, but besides that…it’s far better
Fuck yes. I’m gonna go drive my porsche now.
Fantastic video. Cannot wait for the next one. The note about the reduced glass area is really interesting. Is that why the older cars look better in some peoples opinion?
Question: I have a 996 turbo cab and wanted something less powerful / playful (and am going to keep the 996). I was debating between 997.2S or 991.1S. There’s another option of adding a 987.2 or 981 boxster instead of another 911. Wdyt?
The 991 key is the opposite of gimmick. It’s called creative design.
Great content as always 👍
I've driven 996 C2/C4, 997. 1 C2, and 992 C4S and the truth is that ALL 3 of the older ones were more engaging and exploitable on public roads. Steering feedback and sound of the 997 was my favorite.
Of course the 992 was faster, but believe it or not... Fast can get a little old. Don't believe me? Just ask anyone with a Superbike.
997 FTW
I'm a few months late, but the comments have been so informative here that I'll ask. Which would you choose between a 997.2 vs 991.1 both Carrera C2S and with auto transmissions (was originally searching for a 997 manual, but spouse had knee surgery and won't be able to drive manual. Luckily I have a mkIV Golf R32 for my manual fix!) I'll be driving both for sure before purchasing. Thanks 👍
991 is a no-brainer all day long over the 997. After you drive both you won’t even want to look at a 997 again.
@@scarletmacaw Guess it depends what you're after... :)
Looks like some subtle fab improvements. You didn't give us a summary of your final thoughts of the model were. Is it a transformation or more of an evolution? Think it's a sin that they weren't all supplied with the Sports design steering wheel though. 👍
Nice comparison, thanks
997 is just the better sports car. The end.
I replaced my 997.2 with a 991.1 two years ago and have to say, it is a huge leap in almost every term (sportiness, handling/agility, interieur, quality etc). You definitely feel the „upgrade“. BUT the 997.2 is more rough/more pure, so it‘s all up to preference (and budget).
@@CayenneTurboDriver argh im a first time buyer, not sure which one to go for
They’re all great to drive, things to love about each. I’d have one of each generation if I had room for them all 😊. My favorite thing about the 991 over the 997 are the interior ergonomics (seating position, steering wheel/shifter placement, etc.) but I love how the 997 feels a bit smaller and more intimate. The 991 feels more precise and stable in turns, easier to drive fast comfortably, but the 997 is also a lot of fun in the twisties. At the end of the day, any 911 represents the best sports car experience of its period, and even a 50 year old one is still an excellent sports car experience today.
Luke thanks for the comparison vid' but what did you think of this to a heavy GTR or an R8?
Porsche 911 every day of the week and twice on a Sunday!
wing mirror placement on the 991 is so much better.
Great video!
Electronic handbrake is push to go on and pull to go off for security reasons.
If you knock it accidentally it goes on and not off which could then leave the car without the handbrake on 😉
Why 991 as successor to 997? Don’t the numbers usually go up? Are we heading back down to a 911 model 911?
Excellent film. I’m thinking of swapping my 996 Turbo for a 991.1. Good idea? It will cost me £20k
What about a 997.1 turbo?
@@NoRegertsHere they’re not a huge step up from the 996 tbh. The .2 certainly is. The problem is the routine maintenance of an old car. They’re reliable enough but corrosion of parts is very expensive to rectify. My last bill was £12,000
Both cars are exceptional. Ask Owner’s of both cars which one they would give up if they had to and I believe most would give up the 997. The 991 is a significantly better car all around, inside and out.
Great video! Thank you. Trying to figure out between the 997 and 991 Carrera 2S. Leaning towards the 997.
Drive them both and then you’ll know.
@@scarletmacaw Yes for sure, I'm looking forward to it! Just finishing moving into a new house and then test drives!
Steering in the 991 is a not for me vs the 997
why didn't you show the 997 interior?
1:49 If you watch carefully see the faces of the cars are like:
991: 😮 (Surprised),
997: 😅 (Laughing)
My 987 Boxster S is only crashy if I leave the suspension in sport mode, otherwise it’s like a golf gti
The console may remind you of a Tesla console, but it’s actually mimicking the 918 console.
are they the same height? the 997 looks taller!
They look so similar but the rear end is so much nicer on the 991
Is the 991 an S? I'm test driving a 991.1 base next week and, like many others, am wondering if I'm losing any fidelity going for a base model. Loved the video!
They’re both equally quick anywhere but a racetrack really, the thing that makes the 991.1 so good and frankly more fun than the .2 is that you can be in the 4000-8000rpm range without going dangerously fast on public roads, both have equal grip and sound brilliant, the less displacement and torque of the base car just gets made up for with more RPM which isn’t a bad thing
@@dsioash Great response. Thanks! The car was sold before I could get to it but I remain on the hunt.
@@themadhatter444 it’s well worth it mate I spent 2 years hunting for mine, then it got stolen 2 months after I got it by some kid, took 3 months to get it back on the road but its one of the great 911s of all time, practical enough to be a perfect daily driver but with so much performance that it will always be fast. In an age of turbos its hard to go past that scream at 8000rpm, do get the PSE and sports chrono if you can they’re key to the experience whether manual or PDK.
The center console on the 991 is just so unpleasant. It separates you from your passenger and makes the interior feel cramped, even though the 991 has a larger interior. Overall the 991 interior is much more attractive and higher quality, but that center console kills it for me.
I suppose it depends on whether you want the car to perform as a comfortable and spacious cruiser, or a more driver-orientated sports car. I want my 911 to feel like the latter, which is why I like the raised centre console, as it helps the driver’s positioning feel more like a cockpit.
What´s the wheel size on that 997 ? Are those the same in an 997 "non S"? Great content!! Congrats!
997.1 C2S came with 19”. I believe the base car had 18”
Open the 991 sunroof and it's awful looking in my opinion.
991 is definitely more sleek. It was the first 911 that looked sleek rather than beetle like. But i like 997 better. Last old gen 911.
From your comments on pushing vs pulling on the parking brake release, I can tell you're under 40 years old. Pulling that lever to turn off the handbrake has been the standard since cars had pull parking brakes,
Hi JPM,
Thank you for your comment.
What cars have had a pull lever to let the parking brake off?
P.S I hope I don’t look anywhere close to 40!
KR, Luke
I consider giving up my 40th ae 996 for one of these to give my kids more room in back. Not sure I can do it. Sorry kids!
I drive both everyday 997-1 991 -1
There both great everyday sports cars
Why choose buy both !!!
The 991 did drive much better with a mild tune from fab speed I couldn’t help myself.
There's no comparison with the interior. the 991 is ahead leaps and bounds. The rear looks better too on the 991 as well.
991 is a VW product a 997 is a Porsche product
Oofff 997 looks so amazing
997 all the way. The raised center column (from the 981/991 onwards) is horrid...it just highlights all the blank buttons and notable options one didn’t spec.
I like the raised centre console. I feel it centres everything around the driver even more so. Thanks for your view nonetheless.
If I ever switch from my 997.2 C4S, it won’t be to a 991, unless that 991 is a turbo. Otherwise it’s straight over to 992.
Owned both, 997 built like a tank tries to kill you every now and again, 991 very pretty not as well made better daily driver both cars were carrera s versions I will do my final porsche upgrade next year and buy a 991 turbo s
or a 991.2 the 992 holds no appeal for me the 991.2 the torque low down is very nice but ill see for now my 991.1 is a beaut and drives faster than I can.
991 is so much better
9:38 It still sounds like a Hoover being turned on and off, while someone rattles a tin of nails.
the porsche 997 was a sportscar, while the 991 became a limousine.
When the 991 came out I kept thinking it is a Panamera when I saw one in the street. It is huge for 911 standards. Just no.
991 is akin with the Panamera style
The electric handbrake observation is interesting. Just wait until you try a 991.1 with PDK. That will be amusing.
The thing with the handbrake is I’ve noticed in 6 months Ive had my 991.1 C2S, as a bulky 6’2 bloke I frequently bump my knee into the handbrake while getting in and out of the car, so you really can only have it push to engage and pull to disengage in that position, or you would be accidentally disengaging the handbrake while exiting the vehicle which would be pretty scary if you hadn’t left it in gear. Better to fail safe than fail deadly for sure