This week on Full Throttle Talk, we’re diving deep into one of the most loved generations of the 911—the Porsche 997. Whether you're eyeing a 997.1 Carrera or dreaming of a 997.2 GTS, this episode is your ultimate buyer’s guide. We break down trims, tech, reliability, pricing, and which models are poised to become future classics.

But that’s not all...

What We Did in Cars This Week

Automotive News Breakdown

PDK Problems?

997 Buyer’s Guide Highlights:

997.1 vs 997.2 – What really changed and what’s worth your money?

IMS bearings, bore scoring, and how to shop smart with a PPI

Manual vs PDK: Which one will age better?

Best 997 for your budget, your driveway, and your long-term smile

Pricing insights with real data from Classic.com

Whether you're buying, dreaming, or just here for the banter, this episode is packed with info, laughs, and sharp takes on the state of the automotive world. Buckle up. It’s Full Throttle Talk.

997 Buyer’s Guide

Porsche 997 Overview

What is the 997? Where it fits in 911 history

Key features: return to classic 911 design, hydraulic steering, analog feel

Trim types: C2, C2S, C4S, Targa, GTS, Turbo, GT3, GT2

Turbo changes: 2007–2008, 2009–2012, 2013 Turbo S (918 special edition)

997.1 vs 997.2 – What's the Real Difference?

Engine changes: M96/M97 vs DFI (Direct Fuel Injection) 9A1 – shorter stroke in .2

IMS bearing — fact vs myth

Transmission evolution: Tiptronic to PDK

Interior and tech upgrades in 997.2 (997.2 4/4S always had LSD)

Why values differ in today’s market

Reliability & Common Issues

IMS bearing (only certain 997.1s affected)

Bore scoring – what it is and why it matters

Leaky rear main seals

PDK vs manual maintenance

Expert take: “Here’s what you should always ask for during a pre-purchase inspection.”

What’s the Right 997 for You?

Best value today: 2008 Carrera S Coupe

Best daily driver: 997.2 Carrera S PDK

Best future classic: 997 GTS or GT3

AWD vs RWD — do you really need a C4S?

Decision-making based on budget and use case

Pricing & Market Trends (2025 Snapshot)

997.1: $40K–$55K

997.2: $60K–$90K depending on model and mileage

Turbo and GTS premiums

Collector picks and future appreciation

North American vs European market differences

Ownership Costs & Maintenance

Annual cost expectations

DIY-friendly? (oil changes, plugs, brakes)

Insurance tips

What’s expensive to fix vs what isn’t

Recommended Porsche specialists (shoutout local shops)

Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts

Why the 997 is the sweet spot between analog and modern

Top 3 buyer tips in 30 seconds

What we’d buy with $70K today

Paul Kramer: 714-335-4911 | ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

Casey Parkin: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

David Van Epps: 704-799-7680⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram and FB is @sonderwerks

Tim Harris: 512-758-0206 (text only) | [email protected]