992 Carrera T Review: Why I’m Selling It After Only 3,000 Miles.
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 15 พ.ค. 2024
- After owning this 992 Carrera T for 5 months and 3,000 miles, I'm selling it. Why? Honestly, it's not as good as everyone is saying it is. Here's why.
0:00 Start
0:17 Background on my 992 Carrera T
0:57 992 Carrera T Model Facts
1:25 Positives: 992 Carrera T Review
1:48 Best Thing About The 992 Carrera T
2:56 My 992 Carrera T Build
3:45 992 Carrera T Interior Quality
4:47: 992 Carrera T Review: The Bad Things
5:08 992 Carrera T Size
6:01 992 Carrera T Rear Axle Steering Review
8:07 992 18-Way Seats Discussion
9:10 992 Carrera T Exhaust Review
9:47 Porsche 911 991.2 Carrera S Exhaust Sounds
11:10 992 Carrera T Power
12:10 992 Warranty Claims
13:29 992 Carrera T Review: Why It's Not As Good As Everyone Says - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
Re: The power thing, and why you're having a hard time understanding how the car is plenty quick for a street car, but isn't exhilarating. If it were smaller, lighter, less perfect, less comfy, less of a GT car and more of a raw sports car, you'd be able to feel that speed. You're right, the power to weight ratio is ideal for a street car, and that puts the acceleration in the sweetspot. Unfortunately, the 992 generation is too far removed from being a sports car to be exhilarating, unless it is shocking you with insane power (like the faster variants). But that's not what road going Porsches are about, at least not historically. I've always said that 330hp and 2900lbs is the sweetspot for a road car. The 992 Carrera T has similar power to weight, but its just too bloated and too refined to be exciting. ...unless you go for a big boy power plant. But now we're back to the other common problem - too much power for the road.
Man, that’s well said….and all makes sense. Thanks for taking the time to write that.
The T is down on power. My 992 GTS is a completely different experience. The 992 is so well done in variants that have the juice. T is missing the power component.
@@benmurphy4124 That’s kind of my point. The 992 does absolutely nothing for me as a sports car. Lovely daily with sporting abilities, or a stunning grand tourer, and the GT3RS is a monster at destroying lap times. But none of those are my area of interest when it comes to driving. Sports cars, for me, need to be simple (but quality), engaging, communicative, visceral. The 992 is none of that. It’s lost the original 911 essence. It’s still an absolutely lovely car. Stunning looking, beautiful quality, an exceptional GT car. But a sports car doesn’t need wild power and snap-your-head-back acceleration to be exciting. If that was the case we wouldn’t love any of the air cooled cars. The 992 failed at being a true sports car.
That is why you get a Cayman.
@@MWallis2 What sports car does it for you then? Is it the Supra? Z? An F-Type? Corvette? Trying to think of other "Sports" cars that are better to drive than the 911 but really cant think of any. I mean it is only an inch longer and ~100 lbs more than they Cayman. It still has the best seating position of any sports car, IMHO.
Will, it’s okay to change your opinions. Unlike other reviewers who spend the day with a press car, you own and daily many of yours and opinions change when you get more seat time. The TH-cam audience that criticizes your opinions changing are not thinking critically. Thanks for the content, you’ve really helped me along in my Porsche journey from my 997 to my 992 and now my 991.2.
I really appreciate you saying that.
The concept of confirmation bias prevents many TH-cam car guys to reverse their positions after being in a car after awhile.
The honeymoon phase of new car ownership can keep us in denial of things that aren’t exactly what we want…and the novelty can make us feel more excited about something NOW than we will be later.
I am just not afraid to say “hey, I was wrong” or “hey, maybe I made a mistake” which I think makes my channel a little different.
So glad the content has been helpful for you and thank you for the kind words.
@@RennthusiastI appreciate that about your channel, a lot of the changing opinions you’ve felt are mirrored in my own experience. Keep creating the great content!
I agree! You never know until you own and spend enough time in the saddle. I still love my 992 S cabriolet as a wonderful touring car that was awesome on the Tail of the Dragon(NC/TN border). But now I also have a 1997 993 vanilla with adding Bilstein coilovers and omg, this little Gen 4 911 rocks).
Which 991.2 trim do you own? I thought of getting the 992 Turbo S Cab but the markup and wait times were ridiculous so I settled for a 991.2 Turbo S Cab with aerokit and I couldn’t be happier!
@@DxModel219 I have the C2S because I wanted a manual, maybe I’ll get a turbo PDK when my legs give out!
It’s a great platform to start with. When you get a proper exhaust with high flow cats, stage 2 tune (nearly 500 torque and 500hp), and stickier tires (100-200TW) it’s a fantastic car and “value” !
As the owner of a manual 993 C2 and G50 3.2 Targa I appreciate your observations of the later cars regarding size and driving dynamics.
Great video, Will! I truly appreciate you sharing your shifting opinions on your cars it shows that you have a very open mindset, and you’re loyal to what the car should be. Also, highlights your objective knowledge in the field because not everything is black and white.
Will, one thing that is very valuable about your channel and your propensity to change cars is that you have the ability to offer ‘back to back’ impressions of these different variants of the 911 that very, very few people have the opportunity to experience. That is highly valuable for your viewers. Case in point is this T.
Do you test drive before you buy?
Nice that you cone back to your previous thoughts and share it with us👍
Thank you for the honest review, looking forward to seeing a 991.1 NA engine compared to your 991.2 turbo engine video!
Can't speak for other 911 owners but I am 58 and the air cooled cars were the ones I lusted after when I was young in the 80's so a large part of selling my water cooled car and buying a 1982 is nostalgia.
Subbed. Such intimate and informative comparisons between 992 and various other generations is incredibly rare
Haha, you crack me up man. It's good to be you!
But seriously, the size factor is why newer 911s don't do anything for me.
Also they're numb. Then again anything made in the last fifteen or twenty years is numb. That's the biggest problem I have with any new car.
When you take out most of the steering feel, brake feel, vibration and sound; then remove the clutch and replace it with a paddle gear box, a bunch of electronic aids so that all the extra horsepower doesn't kill your customer, what are you left with? A really fast and heavy car that is kinda boring to drive until you get well into triple digit speeds. Even then it's not as enjoyable as an older car.
I'm not limiting my criticism to Porsche either. I have zero I interest in ANY new car other than for transportation. Luckily we have a plethora of older cars to choose from for fun.
996 with additional power is my sweet spot. It’s lithe and to my eyes, beautiful, and not wide or heavy.
Great review. It’s nice to see someone comment after more than just a couple of days driving a car. And for how expensive these cars are, you should be thrilled with it and not feeling meh. Good that you’re so decisive. I need to learn from you.
Thanks for your honest review Will.
Man I love your videos so much! Been a huge fan and I completely understand from where you’re coming. Mind I suggest you my daily driver? A Honda civic Si! Goes very well with a Porsche GT4.
Just subbed and looking forward to your other content.
I appreciate your honesty in the review. Other reviews about the 992 seem to follow the same script: fantastic latest gen car with only some minor flaws. I feel yours offers a more realistic experience of driving and owning the 992 perhaps because it mirrors my impression of it.
While it feels more refined and modern I, like you, feel it’s lacking some of the 991’s character and soul that made it engaging to drive. From the more muted exhaust note even with PSE on, to the larger size of the car and what feels like overhangs on the car that are harder to tell where they actually end. The previous gen felt more nimble, playful and more raw. I personally find the new digital cluster harder to read, and the steering wheel partially blocks the far left and right clusters.
Because of this I’ll now look for either a low mileage 991.2 or despite less seating a 718 GTS.
Another great review. I don’t get the size comments for the 992. The 991.2 and 992 have the same exact wheelbase at 96.5 inches and the newer car is less than 1” longer. Yes, it’s a little wider by 1.5 inches but these dimensions are marginal. Agree 100% on the RAS, exactly the reason why I did not order on my 992 Carrera S, I wanted that natural rear engine driving dynamic. Loved the buckets in my 718 Spyder but was getting hard to get in/out in my 50’s. Really like the 18-ways in my 992 S but I suspect much of this is related to body size and type.
Agreed 100% on the power. The car is quick enough but after a 30-minute test drive in a Shark Blue 2024 manual T, I found myself wanting for more power. I do think the 992 sounds good and gives off more of that mechanical flat 6 sound and I hear less of the turbo whistle.
honest and open review from a man who buys cars with his own money. refreshing and appreciated.
What about if this is someone first Porsche? Is this a good entry point? I know you have had many so you have a good amount of experience. I also have mine with RAS optioned with a July delivery date. This will be my first of multiple Porsches I would imagine. Appreciate the review.
Good review and really appreciate your honesty. One thing I missed in the negatives was the wind buffeting. Not sure if this was fixed with the window fixes you mentioned. I really do like the color and configuration of this car. Someone will be very happy.
Thanks!
I totally forgot to leave the buffeting out. It was unbearable with the windows fully down at highways speeds and annoying around town.
You could somewhat lower it by putting the sunroof open, the windows up 1” from being fully open and by clicking your heels 3 times (haha).
In all seriousness, that was terrible.
Hey Will, you should review a Cayman GTS 4.0 if you can find one. I would be very curious to hear your comparison between that and the T. Sounds like it would check the boxes that the T missed for you.
The 718 is more of a sports car. The 4.0 sounds better and has a linear power delivery. The 992 is a better all arounder. More spacious better tech. And it’s a 911. It depends what you want and maybe also what you want to spend.
Better tech in a 911, really?
95% of the tech for Cayman gts, gt4 and gt4rs is identical to the tech in 911's.
🎉
Agree, you need to do a back to back drive if a CGTS 4.0 and tell us what you think.
@@robbertblok5612 992 tech is quite a bit different from the 991 generation. Maybe better, depending on preferences.
The current Cay/Box GTS 4.0 engine and drive experience is the best in my opinion. This comes from a guy that has owned several 911s in the recent years and has a GT3 Touring. In fact I like my 2021 Box Spyder so much I bought a 2024 Box GTS for a longer distance softer car when I don’t feel like messing with the top. This engine will be gone soon and it’s a shame.
Somewhat similarly, I switched from a 991.2 Targa GTS to a 992 Targa 4S and back to a 991.2 S. I think the major thing for me was being able to drive the car and not worry about it so much. It added stress to what should have been more pleasant but I was surprised that when driving an almost $200k car, I was always worried about what could happen to it. Now that 991.2 cars are a little more affordable I got back to the 991.2 and can enjoy it without as much concern. And I used some of the proceeds to add an G 87 M2 as a daily.
I do prefer the size of the 991.2 as well as the ergos. From the outside, the 992 is much more futuristic and spaceship like while the 991.2 is much more classic 911. Also you mentioned the sound. Early 992s don’t have the same issue but Porsche had to add OPFs on the exhaust which can be legally removed in the US. I know they are not connected, although present, on the 982 GTS4.0, but still somewhat mute the sound.
Due to size, I feel like it’s slightly more challenging placing the car in turns etc compared to the 991.2.
And for the interior, I think they are equally nice, but the 991.2 has a better balance of tech and traditional controls.
Will: I know where you are coming from on size; as well as the turbocharged 3.0. Miss the NA sound of my 981 on the over run. Also, in the 981, liked the ability to see nose of car from drivers seat, using the wings as a pointer to set up for corners. The visibility from driver's seat in the 992 allows asymmetrical wing visibility, which makes corner set up harder. 992 size also makes it harder to steer around manhole covers and road defects in the same lane. However, the RAS and boosted steering option make up for some of the deficiencies, in my opinion. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts on the 992. Cant wait to see what you get next!
Love the Channel Will . I have a 997.2 C2S and want to add an air cooled G,964, or 993 but just found a 718 Spyder in Shark Blue .... Any thoughts on one over the other? I'm starting to become a fan of Slow Car fast but would like to hear any thoughts
Idea 1. Sell me your .2. I’m in the market for a manual C2S coupe
Idea 2. Take those funds to buy a 993
Idea 3. Buy the Spyder
😂😂😂
Nah, you can’t beat the Spyder. I LOVE my 981 Spyder to death. A great all arounder. You can have fun with it in street without breaking any laws (serious laws, that is) haha
I’m going to be honest with you. I am reaching for my water cooled stuff way more than my air cooled cars. In fact, thinking about selling one of them but can’t decide which.
Nice review… I had specked and almost ordered the nearly identical car plus AWD & convertible. Loved the shark blue so much. Due to price and wanting closer to 3 seconds 0-60 for that type of money, I ended up going with a one-year-old AMG SL, 63. Have to say, I’ve been blown away with the AMG and at a big discount to used 911s
I had mine tuned. It's awesome.
great video
got to test drive one, passed on it
my get a older one as well
It had to be the seats 😂 brought me back to your earlier videos on changing the seats in your air-cooled cars 😊. Informative video, I'll stick with air cooled some more
Lmao
I always appreciate your honesty Will. Sometimes I don't understand it, but i do listen and take it in. Yes you an oddball owner, but super passionate and that's what it's all about. You're living the dream my friend.
Thank you for the review. Its these sort of "real life" reviews that are the most valuable instead of the 5 minute press reviews raving about the car.
Excellent review. Thanks!
I appreciate that you are willing to give us your honest opinion on the car. I sold my 991.1 c4s for my python green 992 Carrera T. My wife has a 991.1 GTS and i dont find that the 992 feels different inside from the 991. The RAS actually makes it feel more nimble than our 991’s. I also own a 993 and it feels like the closest modern 911 i have driven that most resembles the 993. I do agree that the exhaust should be more aggressive than it is. If you keep the Revs up above 6k rpm it is very GT3 ish in its sounds. I am thinking about doing the valvetronic upgrade but it should come better fork the factory.I have been very pleased with the Carrera T and my opinion is that the base motor is by far the best motor in the non GT lineup because it most behaves like an NA motor because the turbos are smaller. The power is more than enough for the street in my opinion and feels well matched for the chassis much like the 964 and 993. The seats are incredible and I feel no difference in comfort over the 991 18 ways. My assessment of the situation is that at $150k you’re probably thinking it doesn’t deliver that much more fun than a 993 or 991.2 that can be had for less. I love the 992 platform because it is such a great grand tourer if i want something more analogue i have the older Porsches to jump into. So for me the 992 is great and the T is exactly what I wanted. Honestly as someone that owns a channel like this its great to see you own many models so that we can get to here your perspective. Excited to hear what you get next. Good luck with your sale.
Issues my 992 2s have developed - wipers squeak at motorway speeds, drivers window similar to what you have described, car has developed a squealing/cricket sound which is apparently "normal", apple car play doesn't always work on start up, one light cluster condensation doesn't clear... the squealing is becoming a deal breaker unfortunately
Heard all these same issues; I have to finalize my T build in 4 weeks. Already bought exhaust / Cats / plan on doing M engenering tune. Buckets seats as well on my spec. Thanks for the info on RAS; being going back and forth on that.
Buy one of each. Problem solved.
@@OMGWTFLOLSMH🎉😂
Interesting video, I had a 991.2 4 GTS (installed an Akrapovic muffler which made an big difference) for 2 years and sold it in 2021, took delivery of my 992 T in Dec and just drove it for over 1400 miles, still a great car but I wish I had kept the 991.2.
Go buy back your old one. I did! 😂
Me as well! I have owned a couple of 991.2 and 992s and always go back to the 991.2s
IF your T had a carbon fiber roof, I'd cash you out tomorrow.
Am I wrong for thinking Will was the type of guy who ran through all the girls at school and at work?... and always have a legit reason why every time?😏
I have 18 way in two cars 991.1 and 991.2 I love them so comfy😊 are the new seats different? Best
Wow, 911 owners have changed so much in the last 30-40 years.
I really like this review because you’ve gotten enough experience with that car on the day to day. It’s hard to really understand a car unless you live with it for awhile. I appreciate the transparency and understanding you provide!
Thanks for the video. I still need to figure out what my FIRST 911 should be. Do I wait and order a 992.2 or a used “air cooled”?
992.2 will be a hybrid.
@@dubful1 - I just read that the C Base and Carrera S will still be internal combustion engines. Will have to wait and see.
997.1 S or 997.2 S you can’t go wrong. I’m a .1 fan but you’ll have to do your research to counter all the negitive hype. The .2 resolved the issues but for me there’s something about the less modern tech element of the .1
I think a 991.1 GTS or 2S is a great 1st 911. The older ones are called the widow maker for a reason!
@@seluRredruM - agreed! The trouble I would have is FINDING a used one in the exterior/interior color with a manual transmission.
Excellent review.
5:11 the 991 and 992 are the same size, there’s just no narrow body version and the cabin design is more open and airy. Surprised that you found issue with the 18 ways since they’re universally beloved but I too did not like the lower bolsters digging into my thighs (I’m bigger than you though) and am so glad that I stuck with the 14 ways. Total Princess and the Pea over here, too, and find that the seat doesn’t always go back to the right spot if you have Comfort Assist or whatever it’s called, enabled. I also agree that the burble tune is way less aggressive on the 992 - so much so that it has me wondering if the 991 that I Turo’ed had an aftermarket exhaust even though it looked stock.
Love your content. Bought my first Porsche 911 last summer after watching your videos. I went with a 991.1 Turbo S.
Thanks so much for your kind words. Hope you’re enjoying that ride!
Will have you tried adjusting those bolsters out to give you more space with the 18 ways?
Oh yeah. Tried 100 different settings and positions and could not find the right one. 😔
Interesting video, thank you! About the size of their cars, I hope Porsche and all manufacturers will take note. A wide car on a canyon road is no fun, driving is like following the dots.
For your next car, I would bet on a Taycan or an electric Macan. After air and water cooled, trying the third type of powertrain...
Or a 928, that would be super cool!!
Meanwhile everyone is sleeping on the Cayman…..
Hope it will stay that way until I buy one.
The Cayman is super underrated given all of Will’s feedback. We need him to compare it and give us his honest thoughts. I know I love mine.
How much weight does four wheel steering add?Doesnt make sense to add options that add all the weight back that their trying to eliminate with this spec.
Will, your review of the 992 Carrera T was interesting, but only because your experience is so different from mine, driving my 2019 991.2 Carrera T. It does make me wonder if the 992 driving experience is that different from the 991.2. My 2019 "T" is my daily driver. I replaced my 20-year-old 996 C4 daily driver with the T because it was the most “analog” drive I could find in a new-at-the-time 911 that would be drivable daily. Admittedly, I was originally hesitant to buy the 991.2 because I hadn’t really gotten used to the idea of a 911 with 20” wheels, but after driving it the first time, I was hooked. Like yours, mine has a manual transmission and sports Chrono package, but I don’t have rear-wheel steering, and I have carbon fiber bucket seats. I agree with you about how disappointing it is that the 911s keep getting bigger, but I recall a car magazine review of the 996 series in 1999, which explained the ‘real reason’ for the continual size creep. They explained that the cars keep getting wider to accommodate the physiques of the people who can afford to buy them. I have no issues with the exhaust note on mine (especially with the 3/4 thickness rear and quarter panel glass); I don’t want the exhaust- and road noise to inflict any more hearing damage than it already does. The one thing that always makes me grimace is hearing someone complain about the horsepower of any 911. Criticizing the Carrera T because it only has the “same motor as the base Carrera”, is not something you should hear from an experienced driver, especially one who has driven their “T” on the track. That’s a complaint from someone who is seduced by the relentless horsepower wars that have become a key metric in marketing upscale performance vehicles. I’m puzzled that you would lament that a 379 HP / 331 lb-ft torque car weighing 3,254 pounds is too slow. Yes, it’s considerably slower than the Turbo, but my Turbo was a far inferior daily driver compared to my much more sedate C4 (with roughly 30% less horsepower) and a significantly less enjoyable driving experience than my Carrera T (which has ‘only’ 370 HP compared to your 992’s 379 HP, albeit with the same 331 lb-ft and is slightly more svelte by 34 pounds). You must admit that a 4-second 0-60 speed should be more than sufficient to give a fantastic driving experience-at least for everyone other than those somewhat misguided owners whose egos are likely to be bruised by the performance car in the lane next to them in the front row at a stop light, that launches faster off the line than they do. In my opinion, that sort of driving should be relegated to the track, not the streets. Life’s too short to let that make one feel inadequate-there’s always someone whose car is going to be faster. If speed off the line is the key determinant of the ultimate driving experience we’d all be driving Teslas. My (5-year) extended ownership Carrera T review is much simpler: After 5 years of driving my 2019 Carrera T every day, it still puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. The experience never gets old. That’s why I bought it.
Finally, I'd like to commend you on the quality of your audience. I'm quite impressed by the insightful comments from some of the other Porsche drivers in response to your review.
I did 7k miles in a 991.2 T and the experience is very similar to the 992T. The 992T is a tad more refined less crackle and pops etc but still the same great formula and it's just a beautiful car to drive. I sold my GT3 for the 992 T (regretted selling first T) as for me less power is more fun at legal speeds and totally agree with everything you've said. I too had a full fat Turbo and it's just too much power for the road which eventually gets frustrating which is why I've come back to the T - my all time favourite Porsche.
Thanks for the honesty. Not big on RAS as well. Everyone tried to convince me otherwise but it’s just not for me.
Great stuff. Seems that the 991.2 is still somewhat underrated in the 911 market. That is changing as more and more 992 owners go back to the 991.2. The 991.1/.2 is perfectly proportioned, and a true successor of 997 with a balance of modern amenities.
I agree. Lots of value for the money (especially in manual) compared to the 992. Just got back from a therapy rip in a 991.2 and it's just. so. fun.
A Carrera T with a glass sun roof? That seems illogical….
best part of the T:
its basicly just a chiptune away from GTS power
Yep…but a chip tune away from voiding the warranty, at least on a 992. Killer power I’m sure, but just didn’t want to go there, at least in my case.
@@Rennthusiast its what Porsche dos themselfs
same engine just different exausts and 3 different chips 1 base, 1 S and 1 GTS
@lunytrickz exactly which is why it’s crazy it would void the warranty but it does.
The S/GTS have larger turbos than the base/T
@@Wolf_man_has_nards yup, thats what they want U to think
they're the same variable turbo that just opens more because of the chip programing ^^
I have ordered a T with schedule build in May so I do find your opinion interesting. Whilst I don't agree with you views entirely, I do appreciate you unique perspectives with the ability to speak both the the positive and negatives.
I do agree that you 992 experience is hugely diminished by the window issues, as we do expect more from Porsche and at the 911 price range.
I don't believe there will be ever a perfect single 911 for everyone int he market, simply because each driver will have difference taste and preference and each generation will have its own pros and cons, just like humans. On paper, I think the 992T is perfect enough for me. Even if there are flaws when I get the car (touchwood), I will still be super happy that I have achieved a dream of owning a 911.
I almost feel the same way between my 981S and my new 718 CGTS. I'm still in break-in and I can confirm that the exhaust is less dramatic sounding but the motor is an absolute gem. It's 200lbs heavier which I can feel but the steering and shifting are far sharper. Looking forward to seeing what you end up with!
I went with the 981 S. When it's out of warranty a simple tune gets me to 355bhp, updated the steering software to the gt3 and its sharper (same mechanicals as 718) and I went with the pdk but the short shifter from the gt4 would fill the gap
Changing an opinion, after experiences, shows Intelligence! I Like your Videos, they‘re always honest. After loads of Videos and visits at my Dealer, I also changed my Mind about the 992 in General, today I prefere my 991.2 (Carrera 4S).
Dumbs up in every Way for You!
As far as the exhaust note, the valves on the 992 sport exhaust only open slightly. There’s a $600-800 plug and play that opens the valve fully that brings back the pops etc.
Rear Axle steering also can be a safety hazard on roads made of gravel, it can cause your rear end to lose traction. I got into an accident riding in my friend's Mitsubishi 3000GT N/A.
The rear steering should be an orderable option. The ability to delete it would be great. Note that the S/T at more than double the price does not have rear axle steering. And yes, you should have found these seats first. If I were ordering one, I would look for fully manual seats. I get in and set the seat perfect for me and never touch it ever again. Why do I need a bunch of heavy motors when I'm using them exactly once ever.
RAS is an option on the T
Wouldn't it be cool to be able to turn it on and off? Due to the nature of it that is impossible but you know what I mean...
I've got the manual seats and while I agree with you on rarely needing to adjust it, the 14 and 18-way offer the memory functions. Again, a bit irrelevant for the seat settings, but I believe it also offers memory for the mirrors to rotate downward while in reverse, aiding in parking. Would appreciate that quality of life option.
Very honest and informative. I think your point about it not being “exhilarating” comes back to the size. Getting into a 964 or 993 just feels special, like you’re entering a cockpit. The cars can’t touch a 992 for performance, but there’s a drama and epic soundtrack that frames the whole experience. Modern cars never really get that. Size is a big reason. The other aspect is that the digital instruments and touchscreen are fine, but evocative of any other luxury car. Lexus, BMW, Infiniti, etc Finally, it’s great to spec your 911, but if you find a perfectly spec’ed older 911 it’s probably just as good. I was so excited when I found a slate grey 964 with all the right (for me) options. Yeah I wish I could have bought it new, but I wouldn’t have spec’ed it any differently.
Off topic question. I own a nice 993 for many years and am considering spending money to upgrade it. Is it worth it or just better to buy a 997 or more modern Cayman for instance. I love the size, view, cockpit, noises and character of my car but want more torque. (I know that only comes with big dollars - hence the question)
@@jameswalter3136Will is the guru so might have more perspective. My brother had two 997s and those are still nicely compact. More power, better ergonomics. Probably depends on how attached you are to air-cooled sounds and the sound of those 993 doors closing….
I have both an early 993c2 and 997.2 c2...and have driven my sister's '14 cayman.....you cant go wrong with the 997 ...it's feels and looks like a bigger stronger more modern 993....but 2nd gen caymans feel super tight and sporty and will satisfy your need for modern power delivery and agility, while maintaining a smaller "porsche" size...if I could have only one I would stick with the 993....it has best driving experience ( size, driver input/vehicle output, tactile feel, smell, and sound...all old school mechanical)...each generation of newer cars have better specs but seem more sterile in driving experience
@@vincentdumlao9166 Thanks for that input!
@@jonwarshawsky5288 Thanks!
I had similar thoughts about the 992. After a lot of deliberation, I went with a 991.2T. IMO, 991.2T is a mix of analog spirit with the modern touch - a keeper. I love the car.
great review man, and it seems that a lot of folks take a long time to get used to the size of a generation after. IMO, you'd have probably a different opinion if you opted for a more potent version. The base engine is great, but most folks opt for a tune or the S variant to make it a bit more engaging. 992 is my first car and when I sat in the previous gens I thought they were a tad small for my liking. I can load up my kids in the car and go for a decent drive without too much complaining. Buy what you like and enjoy it. At least you tried the 992 and learned it wasn't for you! Cheers! I will agree that the car stock form doesn't sound as good as it should. I've fixed that with soul performance sport cats and a valve controller ... lemme tell ya .. can't wait to drive it.
PS: I have a 100 mile round trip to work and back and it's amazing how good it is compared to the other cars I've had.
Wait. A 992 was your first car?
@@Pccart1121 my first Porsche I should say. Sorry. First car .. 1995 Eagle Talon TSi AWD :)
Really good analysis, and I also learned a lot from the intelligent discussions in the viewer comments.
Regarding the numb feeling and large form factor, it would be amazing if Porsche would come out with a much smaller, non turbo Miata style car.
They did. It’s called a Boxster or Cayman GTS 4.0.
They did...It's called a Boxster
Appreciate the insights. Ironically I just sold my 2023 Carrera after only 2,700 miles. Lots of reliability issues, and after 4 porsches in a row I've come to realize that Porsche build quality and reliability is largely urban legend. My replacement vehicle? A new Toyota BR86. Manual transmission, limited slip diff, rear wheel drive, 2800 lbs, great sport seat and seating position, and fully loaded at $32k. Time to return to the purity of a basic sports car. Amazed at how the smile on my face is just as big driving this Toyota in the canyons of California as it was in my 992, and when I park it in a lot I don't worry about it, and if I don't drive it for 2 weeks I don't feel guilty about it. It's fun, and it's liberating.
This is a very real thing. I went through a phase where I was buying the biggest and baddest cars on the planet, Ferraris, top of the line (12 cyl) Benzes and Bimmers, Porsches, etc. I wanted to get a nice, smaller BMW for a key employee, and I got a simple 3 series coupe. It was lightweight, easy, worry-free, and quickly became one of my favorite cars. I preferred it in many cases over the bigger, "grand" 12 cylinder cars. Even now, though I won't change because it is a truly great car and my wife loves it, my AMG S63 cab (which is very fast) leaves me lusting for a simple, lightweight 718 Cayman - back to my racing roots when we actually heel-toe shifted our BMW lightweight 3 series, and gated Ferraris. So kudos to you on your decision - enjoy!
GR86?;I like them too.
@@eastbaystreet1242 just did this too but with a nd2 miata
@@ronintheamazon1492 and you are probably having a blast. Good for you!
i’m actually in the same situation! i have a child on the way and although i have rear seats in the T, it’s a lot of money wrapped in a car that i drive once a week.
Is that your T on the Charlottesville dealership website? Looks like your specs. What are you getting next? I have a 992.1 S on order and should be here by august
I chatted with my friend who is the GM today actually and he said it’s live.
Awesome build; I should sell fast
I have a 991.2 C2S manual with a softronics tune on it. Highly recommended. You won’t regret it. It adds 100 hp and 45% more torque. I also replaced the springs with height adjustable springs and lowered by 30 mm and it matches the height of a GT3 Touring. I also changed to Porsche short shifter. Other than that all stock.
Did you Dyno pre and post softronics tune to get to those numbers? I have a .1 c2s also but cant say i feel 100HP and 45% more torque necessarily
@@ryan962 numbers were given by Softronics vendor. Mine is a .2 which is turbo charged. Tuning a 991.1 can only yield marginal difference, whereas tuning a 991.2 makes a huge difference.
Thank you for the video. Still think for B road / country road driving the 981 Spyder is where its at. Like you say...one of the best things about the T is you can get the most out of that engine, without going to prison.
I am curious how the dimensions have grown through the years and how they compare to current models
So if you’re looking in that $125-150k range, would you 991.2 Turbo or 991.1 GT3 or some other Porsche (982 GT4, etc)? Thanks for the honest review. I’ve been pining for one of these but haven’t brought myself to pull the trigger. For background, I owned a bunch of 997s, but then life got in the way.
That’s why the 991.1 with sport exhaust is the best sounding stock non GT3 Porsche. The C2S with sport chrono is the car with all 7 buttons. It would be nice to get nose lift because with all the good option it lowers the car Extra 10 mil. the bi-product is the beautiful stance that everyone tries to get. I prefer the PDk I have Boxster if I want to shift gears though I don’t miss shifting. If I want to get crazy and I’ll just push gear selector to left and bump shift it with the center consul shifter no paddles just bump it and it’s unreal the sound of holding your rev to 7k it might 7.8k is an experience Not to mention downshifting with the top down that’s beyond exhilarating so think about it, you used to hunt those old air cooled cars you should hunt and or at least drive one. Hands down the 991.1 S is the best sounding 911s with loads of power just make sure to get all the options so it has sport and sport plus and get factory sport exhaust and you’ll love that car I’m never selling mine it makes all those turbo sound like crap. You put it in sport plus and I’ll guarantee you will be in trouble with the law. Regular shift mode sport plus automatically holds first gear until 90, I thought the PDK was broken when I fist drove it the thing wouldn’t shift until I did that on the freeway, dam! It should be called race mode that’s why I pretty much stay in sport that’s why the 991.1 GT3 only came with a PDK because it was a lap crushing rocket anybody tells you this 911s isnt a rocket they’re full of it or they haven’t driven one. I’m sure it’s slower than a turbo or a GT3 but who needs to go that fast and spend that much money to have great sound. I did hunt my 2014 911S for 2 1/2 to 3 years, totally worth the work.
Can't agree more with your comment! The sound of my 991.1 C2S is exhilarating. Something about them naturally aspirated Porsche's.. I've got the 7 buttons spec, and I was lucky to find it in 2 months. Absolutely love it
I ended a Macan S relationship as quickly as you. Same thing. Warranty stuff. My dealer fought me over a bad tire. What a hassle!
as someone aspiring to own one of these this is a good honest review. Its still just out of what I can afford but its something id like to own. this review almost has me looking at the 991.2 carrera t. Though they don't come in pythong green :p
You’ve said what many others have felt but haven’t articulated as succinctly. I drove a 992 S across my favourite mountain range and found it to be very much the same. - supremely competent, but muted. I then bought a 981 Boxster, drove it on the same route, and LOVED it. I think the 981/718 platforms have the better sports cars for keen drivers.
Your honesty is appreciated. Particularly so when you’ve spent a considerable amount of money only to be disappointed with the ownership soon afterwards. We all make mistakes.
I’ve always thoughts when Porsche extended the wheel base by 4” from the 991 onwards there would be “driving experience issues”
I can also see why Porsche did this. Simply put yes they wanted more interior space and better high speed handling however by doing so their sports car has changed into a grand tourer instead.
So instead of engineering better handling on a more sports car sized platform, they took the short cut to overcome physics, they increased track width and wheel base. Bingo: improved handling. However increasing the size and mass subsequently altered the DNA of the 911 as a sports car into a grand tourer and possibly a status symbol. Well that’s my take on it.
Thanks for you honesty, your videos are always well done and informative. Unfortunately 911s just keep getting bigger and heavier (inexcusable in a sports car). Engine character is important to the sports car experience, power not so much, but more weight dulls everything. However I accuse you of Porsche promiscuity. An observation, not a criticism.
At or around 3 minutes 20 you mentioned about configuration.
Did you say you had another video on that as l would be interested in watching it.
I have had a browse through your videos and cannot see anything obvious of that nature.
th-cam.com/video/H5zbyxlyRew/w-d-xo.htmlsi=68A8LCsLo6nuPDsc
@@Rennthusiast Many thanks!
For the rubber window seal, sometimes you need to apply a bit of silicone spray to prevent it from binding up. lol If you clean the windows with an ammonia cleaner, this can dry the rubber out a bit and cause that issue.
Porsche techs said it was bad rubber. They replaced both and all good.
I have a 992T to replace my 991.2S and they are both extremely sporty great grand tourers which is my use case, I have a 981 Cayman S X73 that’s more of a real sport car. I went without the RAS on the 992 and it’s a welcome change to me. I think it all boils down to your use case, I wanted a 992 as a grand tourer and the T I found was the right spec, an S or a base would have been fine - as for speed, both of mine were/are pdk and the 992 with that 8 speed feels similar power wise. Unless you get a well equipped GTS or a true GT product you’ll end up with the best grand tourer on the market. I had to laugh at the 992 feeling numb though as the 992 felt far more analog than the 991.2 it replaced, we must be looking at different things.
Also, your Spyder is great, ho,y grail of street 981 right there.
I appreciate your honesty and openness. I get what you are talking about. I find the later 911s to be too lardy, and thus chose a 981 Cayman GTS as it resonated with me as being more of a drivers car in a smaller package that is on the borderline of size for a true sports car in my opinion.
Cayman GTS, Boxster Spyder, GT4 are GREAT drivers.
981 GTS is not much better. It sounds great and looks great. It drives like a Buick. You can't feel anything. I had one and sold it after a few months.
I want a car that feels the road and it is nimble.
I want a steering that gives you feedback. Not a video game.
@@user-ik1ov9tr4y 981 Spyder is a beast and a driver’s car. Very emotional. Is a blast.
@Rennthusiast l agree on the 718 spyder.
It's great. That and 981 GT4 are great.
I didn't like the 718 GT4 as much as 981 GT4.
I currently have a 2006 Lotus Elise and Alfa 4c. I also have a 2023 BRZ which is being modified for the track.
None of these cars are perfect.
However they are much more raw than any Porsche built after 2011.
That's why I never cared about the marketing placement of the T as a purist's "manual" blablabla. I got mine with PDK, which makes it noticeably faster. For me, the T is a base Carrera with a few selected goodies I'd like the base to have but can't spec on a base. And really that's all I wanted. Glad to hear I will not miss RAS, as I did not opt for it. I hear your point coming from the air cooled era, but I started driving 911s when they were already water cooled. I personally think the 992 design and overall feel is state of the art and beautiful. But I do get your preferences when you had been used to a different feel of 911s.
Honest video. I agree about the size - it's just too big.
I have a 991.1 S and it's a more exciting engine to wring out. The 992 has more low end grunt but it's not as rewarding to push hard. I think the normally aspirated engines sound better, even without sport exhaust.
I just picked up a .1 s and i completely agree. I dont have PSE (bummer) but still sounds incredible
Yes! Made a little dream come true when I bought my .1 last year. Although I love the PSE, I do sometimes enjoy the rumble of the pure engine sound by itself as well. And yes the .2 onward has more power on the low end, but I keep the revs high and have no problem staying ahead of the .2's on spirited drives ;)
What’s the ultimate sports car / daily driver then if not the 992 ?
Aston Martin Vantage for one
718, Emira, older 991.2
Your T spec is gorgeous but this reinforces why I'm hanging onto my 997TT indefinitely - pretty much in the 'goldilocks zone' re. size, styling, old-school analog feel, and astounding power along with classic Porsche build quality before the VAG bean counters took over.
Or... he bought this car to get his "spend" up with a local dealer, so he can spec a more desirable variant? At this point, we all know the games that porsche, ferrari, and rolex play.
I own a 997.2 GT3 RS… I get your comments about noise, steering feel and size. Driving it is absolute riot every time. Not sure where I would go next.
Making room for that GT3?
I’m the same way when it comes to seats. For example, I don’t find any bmw seats to be comfortable (even the 20 way multicontour seats). I sat in a 911 with 18 ways once and knew instantly that I wouldn’t like them
nice video -- owned porsches of course some just want fastest but they are all so fast and acceleration is phenomenol // obviously depends on your budget -- if new to porsche and limited budget a boxster taycan are v good // if I were billionaire new 992 cab --- but boxster a good one --- is a very good first step .... great for commuting much lower costs and was living in UK did not attract attention from police in a 911 you feel eyes on you everywhere -- have driven 911s incredible // dream garage boxster and 992 .... best tip for buying full porsche service history (and check it hasnt been faked does happen) nice review straight opinion ... well done .. what is nice with porsche now so many models something to suit everyone from new to used ...
Who did you use to setup the Montana LLC
Bennett Law in Missoula.
Thanks so much!
The fact that you confused fake popping sounds with good exhaust sound makes it hard to have any confidence in any of your feedback.
I do not feel my rear axle steering on my 991.2 c4s. I love it when I make u-turns though. It is notchy with sticky tires.
I was thinking about eventually replacing my 718 T with a 992 T, but was unsure about how it would feel with the size difference. This video is no making me even more doubtful. At least that means I wouldn't need another 718 worth of money to upgrade lol
Very interesting and informative. I had a 2009 base 911 Carrera and a 2017 991.2 Carrera S. The '09 was much more fun and I regret selling that car. The 2017 did sound very good with the sport exhaust but it is also relatively sterile. That''s why I got rid of it and have the new Lotus Emira. Yeah, it's not the quality of Porsche overall but it is a lot more fun and looks amazing and is $45k less than that T. I am really enjoying it, although like you, I do have one warranty item (HVAC fan resistor needs replaced). I considered Cayman GTS and GT4 but the gearing is too tall. You can row the gears in the Emira and like you said, avoid jail. I would love an air cooled 911 as well, so maybe one day. Great video though.
I agree with all of the criticisms of the 992, except for the seats which I found really comfortable. Another big issue for me was the wind buffeting with windows down. It was unbearable. I used mine as an around town car since, like you, I had other options for fun drives. But even then I found myself picking up the keys to my air cooled cars while the 992 would sit unused for a couple weeks at a time. For as great as it seems on paper, it’s way less than the sum of its parts.
If I ever order a Carrera T, I would only add bucket seats options and keep it as base as possible!
It's in fact an interesting point of view. To the few owners that really like to drive a sports car, a too safe one is kind of boring... I understand that a little danger and some challenge is part of the magic with a car like that. I envy you man, but in a good way!😀😀😀
That is a really cool light jacket you are wearing.
What a great car reviewer, interesting guy and a great video.
Haha thanks man
i love my 993 but at 6’2 its a bit small for long trips, but i dont want a new 911-way to big. i just ordered a macan gts for long trips.
Thanks for your candor. I am kinda irritated that the most appealing Porsches to me are 40-50+ years old. The newer they are the larger, heavier & more complex.
Thinking about a 981 GTS for my next toy. Seems to be the best driver car for the $.