BUYING ONE
Wes of Northway Porsche reveals, “If a customer comes in for a 997.1, we always try to steer him towards the 997.2 and if his starting point is the 997.2, then we try to get him to spend a little more and look at the 991. It’s much better built than the 997.” Northway sees several examples regularly and reports for instance that suspension arms, which after seven or eight years would require replacement on the 997, are still fit for service on the 991, and the geometry is less likely to go awry – both signs of a better resolved chassis.
The 3.8 engine of the C2S and the GTS behaves itself and Northway has seen cars reach 100,000 miles largely trouble-free. While Northway reports no experience of bore-scoring on the 9A1, this engine does have peccadilloes that affect all versions, from the 2.7 of the 981 to the
3.8 GTS. Variocam solenoids fail, while a coolant system performance light can illuminate meaning that one of the seven sensors around the head has failed or corroded. Neither fault materially affects the performance of the GTS and in neither case is the replacement part expensive, but both faults involve workshop interventions. Another coolant fault is a minor weep that can occur at the junction between aluminium and plastic piping.
Bodily, one fault Northway has occasionally encountered is water ingress. The cause is mostly to be found beneath the door thresholds. The 991 uses much more aluminium than its predecessor and the sill comprises three panels rather than one piece. Inadequate sealing allows water to accumulate inside the sill and get into the cabin. Northway’s solution is to dismantle and reseal the sills. Damp carpets will manifest themselves by causing the cabin to mist up. If a buyer finds any evidence of moisture, in a Coupe this is probably the cause.
Otherwise, the usual checks apply: evidence of regular oil changes and service intervals are vital; many six or seven-yearold 911s will not be on their original pads and discs. If they are, this £1,000-plus expense needs to be reflected in the asking price. Tyre wear should be even across the tread and tyres all of the same reputable make – a sure sign of proper maintenance. Batteries last about eight years – an example with a replacement will save subsequent outlay. Cabins are well finished, and only the flattened nap of the Alcantara seats betrays heavy use.