Porsche 997.2 Carrera 2 S - The Sweet Spot of "Normal" Modern 911s? (Drive and Review)
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- čas přidán 16. 06. 2020
- Everyone will tell you what their favourite 911 is. You're never going to find one that pleases everybody. BUT, you can work out the sweet spots in the range and today I'm driving one of those - a second generation 997 with the classic round headlamp look, but the much improved DFI engine. The last time I drove one of these it left me cold, does this do the same?
#Porsche #997 #C2S
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/ jayemmoncars - Auta a dopravní prostředky
People buy Porsches for various reasons. Some people buy Porsches for prestige, some buy Porsches for their speed, some buy Porsches for their looks, but if you’re looking for a true, seat of your pants, sports car driving experience, I believe the 997.2 is the ultimate Porsche.
There’s no question that Porsche improves their cars with each model year, but with the 991 Porsche changed the 911 forever, and for the pure race car driving experience, not for the better. I say that for two obvious reasons: first, the 991 abandoned hydraulic steering for electric steering resulting in an insulated road feel through the steering wheel. Likewise, the 991 is longer, wider and heavier than the 997, again adding additional separation between the driver and the road. Additionally, the 997 is the last “pure” Porsche, as the 991 was developed under the umbrella of Volkswagon. So, if a true race car driving experience is your main reason for buying a Porsche, I am firmly in the camp that believes the 997 generation is the way to go.
I have owned two 997’s. I had a 2007 997.1 Carrera 4 which I absolutely loved. I tracked that car and had a ball watching Corvettes in my run group spin out as they tried to keep up with me through the turns. I recently purchased a 2009 997.2 Carrera 4S Cabriolet and I love the newer engine and the upgraded center dash. Driving these cars is an absolute driving pleasure, sure to bring a wide smile to your face. I honestly don’t think you could go wrong with either 997 version (IMS bearing concerns aside).
As far as the future value is concerned, for those of us who prefer a naturally aspirated engine, these cars should definitely appreciate as the 991.2 started Porsche’s journey on the turbo-only road.
So that’s my humble 2 cents on the subject. I hope this is helpful to some potential buyers.
Please stop praising this car, I’m trying to afford it and you’re making the prices rise lmao
im 18 and theyve already started rising 😭 in 7 years they will be like 993 prices 😭
@@nadeemm429 I feel your pain pal 😫😫
Just bought one! 😊👍 I’m rapped. It is 2010 Cabriolet with 12,000 on the clock. Looks like a new car. Guards red with black top. Stunning
Congrats, I'm sure you'll love it! I've had my 2009 C2S coupe for 6 years and still love driving it. Was tempted after a drive in a C8 Corvette (barely more new than I could get for my 997, and with lots of warranty) but it faded quickly after I looked at and drove my 997.2 again. Right now I can't think of any car I'd change it for.
Congrats on that purchase, Andrew. I've had a 2011 C2S Cabriolet (6 speed manual) in Guards red for 6 years now. Absolutely fantastic car!! Hope you enjoy yours as much as I enjoy mine.
Bought an '09 C4S Cabriolet PDK about 6 months ago and haven't yet stopped grinning yet. It's the perfect driver's car for the back roads of Northern California's Sierra Nevada foothills! 😉
Absolutely spot on , I will never regret purchasing my 997 for the very reasons you stated in your latest installment.
Great review. I owned exactly this model for 5 years, it was my daily driver and a weekend track car. How you've described the experience of owning it and driving it is precisely how I remember it. Best car I've ever owned, period.
I listen to a lot of car reviews, yours are so practical and driver focused and spot on. Thanks for the work
Brilliant film Jay. On my hit list now that they are reasonably priced. 997.2 C2S manual - all the car you’ll ever need!
One of the best JayEmm and 997.2 reviews I’ve seen. Can’t wait to collect mine next week 🙌🏼
I bought a black 997.2 in April. It's a blast. Best car I've ever owned. I believe they will be very collectible.
Congrats, I'm sure you'll love it! I've had my 2009 C2S coupe for 6 years and still love driving it. Was tempted after a drive in a C8 Corvette (barely more new than I could get for my 997, and with lots of warranty) but it faded quickly after I looked at and drove my 997.2 again. Right now I can't think of any car I'd change it for.
Owning my 987.2S and having tested the 997.2S - I agree. This is a very weird generation of cars - combining what's best from both worlds - hydraulic steering and chassis size of the old Porsches and modern, worry free engines of the new Porsches. Double wishbone on the back of the 997.2 feels pretty special, the car "squats" incredibly under acceleration, whereas simple MacPherson rear strut in the 987 is less sophisticated, but the car pivots in the corners around your hips and gives you a more reassuring composure than the 911. Both have their limitations in every category, but as a tool and a leisure car in one - they are so, so good.
Does the 997.1 not have double wishbones on the rear?
Great vid. I love my 997.2 C2S. Factory spec’d in Aqua Blue with black sports wheels. I regularly think of what I would change it for next, but the thought of selling it just doesn’t sit right with me. Puts a smile of the face every drive!
Great vid, loving another instalment of 911 week. I have recently purchased a 911 997 Carrera 4s in meteor grey metallic, it’s my everyday driver. Getting into my car and closing the door is like receiving a warm reassuring hug, cabin feels like it was tailored around me.
Thanks for your incite
Regards
Mark,
When we say 911, the 997 is what comes to mind.
Possibly the best shape EVER.
really?
@@stereolababy Yep, I personnally think that 993 and 997 are the best 911s ever created from a design and mechanical point of view (I own a .2 C2S).
The 997 in particular which brought plenty of exceptional iterations that are still praised a lot today.
About as good looking as a 993. But then I own both and wouldn't want to part with either.
@@randyc2083 993 much better looking 993 widebody S model is easily the best looking 911 ever made. However, 997 is the best looking of the water cooled. 991 is ok too but I simply dislike the 992. Way too big. But hey, I own the ugliest (996) and I even like that. LOL. At least it's not a gigantic GT car like the 992.
Loved my early 987S, would love a go in a 997.2S. Thank you so much for keeping this brilliant car on my radar James!
As always, absolutely brilliant review, as it basically captures the essence and spirit of this car, and even more so the fascination behind a Porsche 911 in general.
Apart from that, you're one of the only car CZcamsrs where I never feel the urge to skip forward, but just sit back and enjoy listening.
Just kinda sad to see that the number of subscribers is in downright criminal disproportion to the quality of your content...
Anyway, keep up the good work, mate 👍🏻
Thanks Hans, couldnt agree more
I totally agree.
Agree
Just subscribed
@@JayEmmOnCars Hi James, what song is on the intro of this video?
The best shaped 911 from the watercooled era PERIOD, a future classic, and totally agree on all the points
Thanks Jay, a pleasure to watch and brought to the point - if you care about driving, not only Horsepower! Driving a 987.2 which is basically very similar but mid engine - so damn enjoyable and sticking to the road like nothing else does. And with the 2.9 liter engine without DFI but new motor construction very reliable and still beautiful noise, a good kept secret. Might be something to review, with the roof down of course ;) greetings from Stuttgart!
if there was an award for most appropriate metaphor that had never been used, "Stuttgartian truffle pig" wins it. Love the video, and the car.
Thank you, great review !!! Just bought my first 911 (997.2 - 2010), waiting for my pre-purchase inspection by porsche. Cannot stand still, being waiting for this moment for 40 years....... Subscribed!
@JayEmm on Cars congrats on reaching 100k. You desire it, you get it. Respect man!
Another fantastic review Jay. I've sold my 944 and don't even want another Porsche but here you've got me shopping and thinking this or Cayman, this or Cayman.
Brilliant review, great work. Easily one of the best automotive CZcams channels, once the network effect kicks in you'll be sailing to 1 million subscribers!
Great... straight up , no nonsense....and all true. I should know..I’ve just bought one ( 997.2 carrera s ) great car...and smile every time I pull out onto he road. Good review ! Thanks
Terrific job once again! As a happy owner of 997.2 I second every sentiment shared in the video - terrific cars, modern classic 911 and fantastic value for money. And congratulations on jumping into the Ferrari ownership with that brilliant 550 Maranello! Can't wait to see follow-up videos and please keep us all posted on maintenance tips and costs...this car is on my list, as I'm sure it is on dream lists of many other petrolheads. Cheers!
Your strength as a presenter is in your writing. Fantastic stuff
I had a 997.2 4S and watching this video made me realize how much I miss that car. Funny as I am driving an M3 now and have it up for sale as I am going to go back to a 911. Really enjoying "911 week", keep up the fantastic content!!
Sounds like you need a 997 Turbo!
@@kernoriordan2434 I would probably lean to a GT3 over the Turbo but you really can't go wrong with either!! Cheers, Ian
Got my 997.2 GTS up for sale but watching content like this makes me just want to keep it and drive it for a few more years!
DON'T DO IT. Actually, given your comment was 8 months ago... hope you didn't do it!
Couldn't agree more. I owned a 991.1, since sold it and now have a 997.1 with aero kit, perfect drivers car, sings when your pushing it 👍
You are extremely good at letting us know how a car really FEELS. Fantastic review! Respect from Florida😀
Thanks Thomas!
Awesome video! Great job putting into words the 911 experience. Heading out to take my 2010 Cab 4S for a drive
Porsche has the most recognizable shape in the history of the automobile. Never lost its identity.
I'd say the most boring shape, never lost its identity but never got more interesting to look at either.
TjDolHaus86 good observation, but history shows often attempts to be different was a hard lesson.
Yet grew more and more bland and Saab like as the years went on. The 992 has to be the worse looking version to date. Lovely retro dash trim but other than that, it’s now a boat.
Thanks. Inspiring, low-key and sincere. You da man!
Hello Jay and well done for your videos and for your You Tube success. I also wanted to congratulate you on the 550. In the late 90s, a friend had 2 of them one after the other. We took them to Munich twice. On one of the trips, I did most of the driving there and back as I was trying to break 200mph - at least on the clock - as the car's claimed top speed was 'only' 199 mph. Suffice it to say that I only managed 195 mph but was at 170mph plus for hundreds of kms. It was a long time ago but I recall everything and can tell you all about my experiences if these are of interest/use to you. I have driven many exotic cars. The 550 Maranello is the most epic and wonderful of all of them. The ability of the V12 motor is like an out of body experience at full chat as it the availability of power across the rage! You chose well!
As already said brilliant review. Owner of a recently restored 964 here, was given a 997.2 black edition to try and instantly fell in love with it. Now the 964 is for sale and will be looking for a nice 997.2 when sold
997 c4s to me is the perfect daily weekend 911
I thought about exchanging it for a 991, but it almost feels analogue in comparison.... which is a good thing
I particularly like the 997s looks and size.
Awesome review, very entertaining and informative. Keep up the good work!
As usual very unbiased approach. Cheers.
2 years later. Sweden. Up for sale, a 2010 Aqua Blue 997.2 4S PDK with Sport Chrono and 31810 km on the clock in pristine condition. 79,101 Euros. Prices have definitely gone up. They are sought after.
Excellent review, having owned the same model for 11 years I could not agree more, along with my Clio RS a perfect stable.
10:30: comments about M3 bragging vs 911 driving bang on! Great review, nails the essence of this car. I'm looking for a 997.2 C2S manual.
I think these are the sweet spot of the last 50 years. The newer stuff is too far from the original brief IMO. The cars get faster but the roads don''t get bigger and this is the last in line performance wise, for a car that you can still wring the neck of and not take really stupid risks. Nice review!
Great review. Makes me feel very happy with mine. Try drive a c2S x51 sometime. I have had an S and a x51 and I'm convinced its the one to have - 2nd hand.
Very Evocative! Thank You!
Absolutely fantastic video and review. Hoping to purchase my first 911 this year
Was considering changing my .1 for an M3, you've just made me keep the 911. My Son will be pleased
Funny, I just featured the 997.2 GTS on my channel 2 days ago, and now you have the S. Should have coordinated that one! Nice job as always.
Good video as always Jay. Especially helpful for me as I’m strongly debating one of these to replace my M235i!
I've been looking at these cars for 3 months or so and on average they've gone up at least €5 grand. The old wore off and people are starting to realize how much of a gem these are
Yep, you're spot on right. Get a good one while you still can...
I owned one from new but the C2 S 997.1 and I can confirm it was superb. It was more than fast enough with 355bhp and handled wonderfully. It was cheap to run, long service intervals and reasonably practical. To me, the best junior supercar there is.
Very close too 100k now! Well done. Good channel 👍
Iv wanted one ever since I sold my 996 C4S ...still on my list 👍
This also is my favorite 911. The problem with Porsch are the running costs, especially if you want to go to the track sometimes. Just look what a decent set of tires, brakes, exhaust costs. Because of that I bought a lotus exige. I also like the more raw feeling.
It's sad that you haven't yet hit 100k subscribers yet. Brilliant work as usual, now if only sorted out your intro music.
991! The 991 is a modern 911 with no turbos but with a lot of modern technology. It won the Best Drivers Car competition 2 years in a row. Something that no other model has EVER managed to do.
Looking back though. The 997 is the total sweet spot. If I had the money for both. I’d take the 997 S over it. Hydraulic steering is far superior
Crank Chamber hydraulic steering is def better than early 991’s but if you’ve driven a 991.2 or a 992 I think it’s every bit as good, truly amazing what they’ve done
jameswillard1 992 they have almost cracked it!
Crank Chamber
Except that the 991.2 are Turbos and that is certainly not an advantage to many who consider the NA engines to be much better.
jameswillard1
992 is an amazing machine but the question here is about the sweet spot. Is it too big as some claim to be a true 911? Too many electronic nannies? Turbo rather than NA engine? Screen vs analog?
The 997.2 cabriolet was the first 911 I’ve ever driven and the first time I realised what a peculiar but unique feeling it gives you especially powering out of corners. No other car does that or even has attempted to copy that either
Watching sam drive his Porsche round the world has made me fall in love with Porsche and specifically the 911. It's now my ultimate GT dream car. I love em and I can't wait to get one
Very very tempted
Great review
Awesome Video and Analysis. I have a 2007 991.1 (Later model of the Gen.1) and a 2012 Ferrari California and the 997.1 is by far my most favorite car that I own and have ever owned of all time and I drive it almost daily. The one comment I wanted to make is that I agree with everything you said about the 997.2 especially the engine. My 997.1 Engine sounds just a bit better and harsher in my opinion with the sound of that wailing Flat six :) (with out the DFI) Anyway thanks again for a great video Mate!
Classic - “Stuttgartian truffle pig” a new turn of phrase for me, but it explains it perfectly.
Great review as usual Jay. Just sold my 997.2 c4S but loved it. Are you doing a Lotus week as well? I did like your French ‘Non, Non’ during the video!!
Brilliant review and spot on about the 996 and 997 generations being a sweet spot I prefer them to the 991s and 992s which have got a bit too big and too electroinc they feel less raw and engaging to drive despite being technically better in every way, give me a 996 or a 997 over a 991 anyday (especially the 996 Gt3rs or the 997 GT3 4.0)
Love my manual 997.2 C2!
997.2 is definitely the best modern 911, and imo the best generation of 911. It’s like the last of the analogue 911 while still being liveable
Oh - that one looks really nice in that combination.
I just bought a 997.2 C2S and it is as good as you say, fantastic! I sold my Aston Martin DB9 for it and it’s more fun!
"Stuttgartian truffle pig" 😂 That was brilliant!
Great review - "Stuttgartien truffle pig......" what a great way to describe the feel of the car.....
Great review of what I agree is the best of the modern 911s. Re your comment on the Gen 1 PDK, I agree the shifts can be somewhat lazy. However, when equipped with Sport Chrono, engaging the Sport (or, god forbid, Sport Plus) mode completely changes shift speed and characteristics. The down side? One can't engage transmission Sport mode without also switching PASM to Sport. So while Sport mode shift speed is equivalent to the new PDK, IMO, the suspension is somewhat stiffer.
Stuttgartian truffle pigs - LOVE IT! 😂
Great and very informing review!
Best regards from sunny Croatia!👍🇭🇷
Love my 997 C4. She’s a keeper
The only Thing I would Improve is the exhaust pipe noise. A Scart upgrade makes it a perfect 911.
I am literally the guy described in the video. I've owned an E90 M3 for 2 years and just waiting for the day my son is tall enough to ride in a 911.
Great vid , thank you 👍
I think I have a hankering for a 997 but the 996 for me still has plenty to give and certainly does when I get the chance 👌
If you like the cheezie Ford Torus interior
Love the 997.2, especially the gts
The price on these cars, at least in the US, have been rising steadily over the past year to the point where it’s gotten crazy! Try finding a C4S or even a C2S for $30-$40k-unless it has a ton of miles. And finding either one in a manual is not easy either! They are brilliant cars.
Great review, and I think spot on! Just before lockdown I swapped my E92 M3 for a C4S gen 2, and can't agree more with your assessment vs BMW's. I've also driven all the other key drivers M cars, and various other competitors too. And the joy in just driving this is immense. I find any excuse to go for a run the Porsche! I just love the balance and the way you can use the weight and power at the rear end through the twisties. Its the most satisfying car I've owned period. And definitely one I have no urge to want to replace, so is likely to remain. I also find it just begs to be driven hard, its addictive!
Yep 3 BMWs here- went and test drove a 997.2 and a Cayman S 14’
I prefer the 911- it’s always been a dream car. I had the yellow Porsche poster with the black background on my wall as a kid.
Can’t wait to have one in my garage. And I’m going to find that poster from the 80’s and hang that in my garage.
Brilliant review, you described the spirit of 911 so nicely... "after you drop kids to their schools" got me :-) I would love to hear your opinion on 911 997.2 vs Boxster S 981. I've driven both, but the mid-engined Boxster felt nimble and more connected with me. Obviously by sacrificing the rear seats, so you can't really drop kids to schools and go for a drive :-)
This channel is brilliant
Great review! Never had the chance to drive a Porsche 911. I am a fan and owner of a Caterham ... but if I was going to buy one of these, it would be a 997.2 with manual gearbox and X51 engine kit ... for exclusivity more than for performance :) And you made me wonder if I could put one next to my SuperSeven!
Great video as always, find your channel quite addictive and actually think you and the guy from High Peak Autos should take the place of Top Gear presenters. Like you, I’m a huge 911 fan but very interested to hear your views on long term ownership 911.2 vs Aston Martin Vantage V8? Fun vs costs vs reliability, which would you choose?
Great stuff 👍
Excellent perspectives
‘Stuttgartian Truffle Pig”....Love it. Great Review.
Thankyou
What a brilliant review
Well if you and Winston are ever in the Toronto area - let me know! I met you guys down in San Diego and I tried to hint to Winston that if you like to tour in corvettes, a 911 would be better.
You prolly dont care but does anybody know a trick to log back into an instagram account??
I was dumb forgot the password. I would love any help you can offer me!
@Shawn Jay instablaster :)
Great video of a guy who really appreciates a 997.2. I own a 997.2 and you should try the DSC sports controller on the car. It transforms the car !
I've heard great things about that, congrats!
Good video. Had my 997.2 c2s for 9 years, love it and can't bring myself to drop double the value of the car on a 991. Just not worth the jump.
Excellent review. Always thought 997.2 was the best post air cooled 911.
Had my 997.2 since 2013, love it to bits. Had a 981 before that with the second gen PDK and I agree with you, the first gen PDK in my 997.2 is not as good. When you drive it hard it's almost the same, but city driving is miles apart.
You can have the software on the PDK wiped and reset with a setting similar to a later model.
Was doubting very long between buying a 997 2S, a Lotus Exige V6 and a 997.1 gt3
Bought the lotus. Happy with my decision
I love my 997.2 S. I have done the Sharkwerks X pipe, IPE valvetronic exhaust, SOUL Street catted headers, Cobb accessport tuning/dyno (BBi Motorsport), Fabspeed Cold Air Intake, IPD Plenum, Sport Porsche / BBS Wheels, Decent tires, Some brake work, Springs, Gt3 Bumper/Lip, Gonna order gt2 skirts to match, Either gt2 rear bumper or gt3 look dual exhaust rear bumper. Gonna have Vision Motorsports build motor to 4.2L eventually will be about 500+ BHP easy after that. Probably grab a set of carbon ceramic rotors/calipers eventually too. Call it good. Awesome car. Interior is basic but all quality. Rides nice. The oil issues have been fixed from 997.1-997.2 I think. Has been solid for me. Yeah, it's not a mitz motor but, after it's built, it's built.
Superb review!
The tiptronic gear box isn't as bas as most people make out, you can still have a lot of fun with them and is still very quick. Especially when it's your daily car 😏
997.2 is PDK which is much better than tiptronic.
@@erikhp35c95 I know about PDK 👍
Another car on my 'possible weekend car buy' list
The most unreliable Porsche is more reliable than the most reliable Ferrari 😂.... car choices is subjective....
Have always loved your reviews - the best out there in my opinion. A question for you: which one of these 2 cars (very similar in my opinion) would you pick: 997.2 C2S or Lotus Evora GT? I have a 10-yr old 997.2S with 48K miles which I bought new and love, but wonder whether I should swap it for a new Lotus Evora GT for a similar driving experience but with “more emotion”?
One of the best sports cars in decades! One question... I love your videos and your reviews but, why is someone else driving the car in the shots where it drives past the camera?
I enjoyed that. Had a .1 4S Cab, did mega miles in it form east anglia to the top of Scotland and outer Hebrides and many trips to France. It had more sheep shit under the arches than most Ranger Rovers. Best car money could by. Had a dalliance with a V8V at the same time but that wasn’t a patch on the Porsche and only stayed a year. Went onto a 997.2 turbo which was epic but now in a 991. 4S Cab which suites me well as I get older and softer but still wanting a N/A engine. Newer 3.0 turbo engines may be efficient but don’t have Porsche 911 character anymore #sadface.