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Porsche 911

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Porsche 911: The 911. In production since 1963 across eight generations. Rear-engine flat-six layout that has defined Porsc
Photo: Matti Blume / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

The 911. In production since 1963 across eight generations. Rear-engine flat-six layout that has defined Porsche for 60+ years.

The Porsche 911 has been in production since 1963 across eight generations: 911 (1964-1989), 964 (1989-1994), 993 (1994-1998, last air-cooled), 996 (1998-2004), 997 (2004-2012), 991 (2011-2019), 992 (2019+, current). The 911 layout (rear-engine, flat-six, RWD or available AWD) has remained consistent for over 60 years despite continuous engineering refinement. The 993 is the last air-cooled 911 (1994-1998). The 996 (1998-2004) was the first water-cooled 911 with controversial fried-egg headlights and IMS bearing concerns that affected reliability. The 997 (2004-2012) restored classic 911 styling cues; the 997 GT3 and GT3 RS are widely considered the peak of naturally aspirated 911 development. The 991 (2011-2019) introduced turbocharged base 911 from 2015 onward. The 991 GT3 RS 4.0 and 991.2 GT3 are the standout naturally aspirated variants. The 992 (2019+) is the current car. The 992 GT3 with naturally aspirated 4.0 flat-six, the GT3 RS, the Turbo S, and the Sport Classic are the modern lineup. The 911 has been continuously refined while maintaining the core character. Each generation adds power, refinement, and capability while keeping the rear-engine layout that defines the model. The current 992 makes around 379 horsepower in base trim and over 700 horsepower in Turbo S. On WhipJury, 911 submissions are highly active. Stock and modified examples across all generations appear regularly. GT3, GT3 RS, and Turbo variants reliably top voting. The community recognizes the 911 as one of the most iconic sports cars produced.

Top Porsche 911 examples on WhipJury

2019 Porsche 911 GT3
2019 Porsche 911 GT3#1
Whip Score: 1213
2024 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
2024 Porsche 911 GT3 RS#2
Whip Score: 1196

911 generations

911 (1964-1989). Original generation. Air-cooled. Various variants including 911E, 911S, Carrera 3.2, and the limited 1973 Carrera RS 2.7.

964 (1989-1994). First all-wheel drive option. Power steering. Air-cooled.

993 (1994-1998). Last air-cooled. Multi-link rear suspension. Considered the most beautiful modern 911 by many.

996 (1998-2004). First water-cooled. Controversial styling. IMS bearing concerns.

997 (2004-2012). Restored classic styling. 997 GT3 and GT3 RS are the peak naturally aspirated.

991 (2011-2019). Larger, more refined. Turbocharged base from 2015. 991 GT3 RS 4.0 standout.

992 (2019+). Current. GT3 with naturally aspirated 4.0 flat-six, GT3 RS, Turbo S.

911 on WhipJury

911 submissions across all generations are highly active. GT3, GT3 RS, and Turbo variants reliably top voting. The community has deep appreciation for the 911 lineage and votes accordingly.

Frequently asked questions about Porsche 911

Which 911 generation is the best?
Subjective. The 993 (last air-cooled) wins on classic appeal. The 997 GT3 is the connoisseur driver car pick. The 991.2 GT3 is the most refined naturally aspirated 911. The 992 GT3 RS is the most capable lap car. Each represents a different peak.
What is IMS bearing failure?
The Intermediate Shaft bearing in 996 and early 997 (1997-2008) M96/M97 engines was prone to failure, which in the worst cases destroyed the engine. Around 5 to 10 percent of cars affected, depending on which study you read. Aftermarket bearing kits and bearing upgrades (LN Engineering and others) are widely available for affected engines.
How much does a 911 cost?
Wide range. Used 996: $30,000-$60,000+. Used 997 base: $50,000-$120,000+. 997 GT3: $130,000-$250,000+. 991 GT3: $150,000-$300,000+. 992 GT3: $250,000-$400,000+. New 992 base: $116,000+. 992 Turbo S: $230,000+.
Is the GT3 worth the price over the standard 911?
For track use, yes. The GT3 has different (naturally aspirated, higher-revving) engines, more focused suspension, larger brakes, and aerodynamic features specific to track use. For street driving, the standard Carrera or Turbo S may be more livable. The GT3 Touring (without the wing) is a popular compromise.
Are 911s reliable?
Generally yes when maintained. Air-cooled 911s require periodic engine work but are generally robust. Water-cooled M96/M97 (996 and early 997) have IMS bearing concerns. Modern 991 and 992 have been generally reliable. Common issues are typical for high-performance cars; maintenance costs are significant due to specialty parts.

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