CHECKLIST

BACKGROUND

The 997, a comprehensive re-shell of the 996, also turned the ‘S’ into a more powerful version, the gen 1 engine taken out to 3826cc and 30 more bhp. The new 911’s lines met universal approval, as did the updated cabin with its notably better and tidier fascia. The troublesome intermediate shaft of the M96-7 remained though, now supported by a larger bearing. Anecdotally, the incidence of failure is rather lower; over 100,000 of the gen 1 997 were built. With its optional equipment, the car sampled here would have cost over £71,000.

WHERE IS IT?

Auto Options Direct has been selling cars in East Berkshire since 2005 and specialises in lower end premium cars, particularly sports cars and convertibles and usually has BMWZ4S, Mercedes SLKS and two or three Boxsters in its stock. Recently it has started to focus on the first generation Cayman and 996s and 997s as well. Auto Options sources many of its cars from premium marque dealers which have taken them as trade-ins which do not fit in their own offering; other cars are often direct purchases from owners. Auto Options valets cars, renewing an MOT with less than six months validity, but otherwise aims to sell cars as they stand: “We prefer to sell at a lower price and move cars rather than hold on to them,” says director Gary who adds that he would hope to turn over 20–25 cars month from a similar sized stock. Auto Options Direct: autooptionsdirect.co.uk GU47 9DB 01252 878331

FOR

Original standard specification with generally good bodywork and leather interior; manual gearbox; regular service record

AGAINST

Suspension geometry needs resetting. Engine may benefit from diagnostic check.

VERDICT

Early 997Ss don’t come much cheaper: will suit buyer who knows his 911s and is ready to invest in some mechanical refurbishment.