Porsche 911 (2004-2012)

The words ‘iconic’ and ‘legendary’ are frequently over-used in the motoring arena, but where the Porsche 911 (in this case, the 997 Series) is concerned they’re most definitely deserved. Since 1963 this supercar has captured the imaginations of enthusiast drivers, with its beguiling blend of supercar pace, grand touring usability and brilliant build quality. And with thousands made each year, there are plenty to choose from on the used market, although the number of different 911 variants to choose from is bewildering, and it’s essential that you buy the one that’s right for your needs. Once you’ve pinned that down, the next hurdle is to find a minter with a full history that’s been maintained by a marque expert. And don’t buy anything else.

Key dates

9/04: The 997 coupé debuts in 321bhp 3.6-litre Carrera and 350bhp 3.8-litre Carrera S forms.

4/05: A 997 convertible is introduced.

11/05: There are now Carrera 4 and 4 S options, with four-wheel drive. 

5/06: The 415bhp GT3 goes on sale

7/06: The 480bhp 3.6-litre Turbo reaches showrooms.

6/08: Four-wheel drive models get a new transmission and an all-new, more efficient flat-six (341bhp for the Carrera, 380bhp for the Carrera S). The Turbo gets a 3.8-litre engine and Porsche’s brilliant PDK dual-clutch gearbox replaces the previous Tiptronic auto.

12/10: Carrera GTS has 408bhp 3.8-litre engine and rear-wheel drive.

1/11: Speedster has 408bhp 3.8-litre engine, rear-wheel drive, PDK transmission. Just 356 are available globally.

4/11: Black Edition is limited to 1,911 examples with 345bhp 3.6-litre engine.

5/11: Carrera 4 GTS is four-wheel drive version of Carrera GTS.

Checklist

• Clutches last 50,000 miles if not hammered; if driven hard, a replacement can be needed much sooner.
• The suspension lasts well, but the front bushes wear out, especially if the car is driven hard.
• Don’t buy a 997 privately – especially an early one – without an inspection by an acknowledged expert.
• Pre-2009 cars can suffer from engine failure, so look for blackened tailpipes and listen for ticking at idle. Later cars aren’t affected.
• The steel braking system (there was a ceramic option) can suffer from disc corrosion, especially on cars used sparingly.
• Because of stone chips, a resprayed nose is nothing to worry about, but if any other part of the bodywork has received fresh paint, be wary.
• The air-con condensers and coolant radiators can suffer from pinhole leaks; replacements are costly.

We like

• Performance
• Build quality
• Usability
• Handling
• Engine noise
• Image
• Exterior design

We don’t like

• Not that exclusive
• Bewildering range
• Costly to buy

Porsche Boxster (2005-2012)

Ever since the original Boxster appeared in 1996, rivals have struggled to keep up; Porsche’s entry-level model has always provided sublime handling, strong performance and excellent build quality, with a cast-iron image. This is a car that’s so good, it’s easy to wonder what the point of a 911 is – or any number of costly supercars. Fabulous to drive, fast, sharply styled and superbly built, the Boxster is one of those rare cars that’s so good, you wonder how it can be improved. So while the Boxster can cost a chunk of cash to buy and run, it’s still a bargain.

Key dates

1/05: The second-generation Boxster, codenamed 987 (the original was the 986) debuts in 240bhp 2.7 (Boxster) and 280bhp 3.2-litre (Boxster S) forms. 

7/06: The 2.7-litre engine is boosted to 245bhp, while the Boxster S gets a 295bhp 3.4-litre unit. 

1/09: A facelift brings improved steering, more standard kit and the option of Porsche’s brilliant PDK dual-clutch gearbox. There’s also a 2.9-litre engine for the Boxster while the S is boosted to 310bhp.

2/10: The Boxster Spyder is introduced. With more power (now 320bhp) and less weight (just 1275kg) the Spyder is the most involving Boxster of all to drive.

Checklist

• Transmissions are strong, but hard-driven cars may be suffering from a tired rear axle, so listen for whining.
• On very early 3.2-litre cars, a weak intermediate shaft (IMS) can lead to premature gearbox failure.
• Water pumps can fail in less than 40,000 miles, so check for coolant leaks and inspect the fluid levels.
• The roof mechanism can suffer from failed ball joints. Poor repairs can damage the roof, so check no water has leaked into the cabin.
• Stick with 17-inch wheels for general road use; larger wheels spoil the ride. Whatever is fitted, kerbing is common so check for damage.
• Pre-facelift cars (built before the end of 2008) can suffer from stonechipped paint all too readily.
• The standard seats are excellent, but the optional sports seats take comfort to a whole new level.

We like

• Build quality
• Refinement
• Performance
• Handling
• Usability
• Value
• Reliability

We don’t like

• Running costs can be high

Richard Dredge