Porsche 911 Carrera 4S: 997 or 991?
Drive Anything · October 13, 2026
The Carrera 4S is the 911 a lot of people end up living with: the wide rear body, all-wheel drive and a sweet naturally aspirated flat-six. We have several from both the 997 and 991 generations in the showroom at any given time, and the question we hear most is which one to buy. Here's the short version.
The 997 (2005–2012)
The 997 is the more compact, more analog car. It has hydraulic steering, smaller dimensions and a classic 911 feel that many enthusiasts prefer.
- 997.1 (roughly 2005–2008): 3.8-liter engine in the Carrera 4S. Ask about the intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing and any documented preventive work, and check for bore scoring on higher-mileage cars. A good specialist inspection is essential.
- 997.2 (roughly 2009–2012): the updated direct-injection engine that does away with the IMS bearing, plus the option of Porsche's PDK dual-clutch gearbox. For many buyers this is the sweet spot of the generation.
Manual 997s with good records have a strong following. Options such as the sport exhaust, sport chrono, PCCB ceramic brakes and special-order colors make a real difference to desirability.
The 991 (2012–2019)
The 991 is longer, wider in the cabin and more refined, with electric power steering and a more modern interior. It's the better long-distance car and feels newer every day.
- 991.1 (roughly 2012–2016): the last generation of naturally aspirated 3.8-liter Carrera S and 4S engines, with a seven-speed manual or PDK. A favorite for people who want the modern car with the old-school engine.
- 991.2 (roughly 2017–2019): moved to a twin-turbo 3.0-liter engine with more torque. Faster in everyday driving, with a different sound and character.
Which one is right for you?
If you want the purest, most communicative drive, a well-kept 997.2 is hard to beat. If you'll put real miles on it, travel two-up, or want modern comfort and tech, a 991.1 Carrera 4S is the one. Either way, buy the best example you can, not the cheapest: records, ownership history and condition matter more than a few thousand miles.
What we check on every 911
- Service records and the history report
- Leaks, coolant hoses and radiators (the front radiators collect debris)
- Tire age and wear pattern, brake condition
- Paint depth, panel gaps and stone chips on the nose
- Option codes against the original build
See the 911s in the showroom or ask Brett about a specific spec.
