About this episode
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 Monterey Car Week plans, Luftgekühlt 11 submissions, Palomar canyon runs, Summit Point laps, and some healthy Porsche flipping by Dave. Automotive News Breakdown Is Porsche’s business model broken? Tariffs: What does this mean for the used car market? We’ve got answers. PDK Problems? Real talk on what’s breaking, who can fix it, and how much it’ll hurt. 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 Context for newer buyers or those upgrading from 996s or Boxsters 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 | paul@autokennel.com Casey Parkin: casey@groupccuration.com David Van Epps: 704-799-7680 | dave@sonderwerks.com | Instagram and FB is @sonderwerks Tim Harris: 512-758-0206 (text only) | tim@timandjulieharris.com