Driving my 2000 996-4 since 2015 with 140.000 miles only in European winter. Great car. Apart from regular maintenance, which I’m doing myself, I had a broken radiator. So cost wise my cheapest car so far. I’m 61 so I had a few. 😊

Mine is a 987 Cayman 2.7l. I don't loose any sleep with the bore scoring issues. Bulletproof engine.

Been driving my 1985 3.2 carrera for 12 years now. Around 145k miles on her and still runs perfect. No engine or transmission rebuild and just basic maintenance that I have done myself.

21 almost 22 years old, became a large Porsche enthusiast through my dad and going to the track with him through the PCA. Hoping to buy a 996/997.1 one day and find one that's manual and is in somewhat good condition.. this video provided me with a lot of information and insight so thank you!

The Porsche to get right now is the 996 turbo. And it might sound crazy but get one with roughly 100k miles. They are available for roughly $40k right now. You can drive it for 4 years and put 50k miles on it. Then with 150k miles you will be able to sell it for roughly the same price you paid for it.

I have a 987.1 2.7 5 speed bought it with 92xxx and I’m now at 142xxx I absolutely still love this thing.

Thx for your videos and appears you are very through & good at what you do. I had a 996 turbo stick sold with 23K miles never had any problems now have a 997.1 turbo with 36K & Tiptronic no problems so far. I love the 997.1 & 997.2 turbos.

996 turbo and 997 turbo: bullet proof engines!

Excellent synopsis. I have a southern 2008 manual 911S with 67000 miles. I love the car! So far, there are no issues. But you are absolutely correct... in the back of my mind I am thinking of what, when and how to potential problems.

The 996 & 997 turbos and GT cars are solid.

I used to have a 2008 997 gen 1.5 turbo tip…..Awesome car. I now have a 2014 981 Cayman GTS manual, another great car 👌🏻

2003 996 going on 7 years 83,000 miles on the Odometer. Very few issues so far. IMSB was done before my purchase. I did do a clutch and RMS but that's not all that bad for 7 years of ownership for a 20 year old 911.

NO question - 996 turbo with some miles and keep it forever - slam dunk!

Had my 996 c4s nearly 14 years ,no intention of selling still looks stunning and plenty fast enough

Picked up an '08 Cayman two years ago with 60,000 miles. Love the car, is a joy to drive, and only bill it's thrown at me so far is an AC compressor.

thanks for making up my mind! 1999- 2001 996 it is!

I owned a 987.1. Loved it. Getting ready to buy another Porsche. First choice is 981 which is last normally aspirated base or S. Second choice if I want to save some money is 987.2. I see these cars as critical to this discussion.

We brought a 2000 986 with 70k miles from San Diego back to the Midwest about five years ago. Thru dumb luck, it's been a trouble free daily driver getting ready to turn 100k miles this summer.

Fun Fact: Metzger engined Porsches (the turbos) didn’t have IMS or bore scoring issues.

You mentioned shipping the engines out for work being much cheaper. Can you share what shops you use or make a video about the process for doing that.

What's interesting is every time someone buys a used Porsche, the first conversation is about " preventive maintenance" and when folks buy a used Mazda MX5 the only conversation is what upgrades they are considering never talking about all the issues mentioned in this vlog concerning used Porsches.

I’ve upgraded from a 986S to a 987 and now 987S, and couldn’t agree more. Huge amount of car for the money

I just picked up a 2013 981 2.7 PDK with 55k miles really well Maintained I’m super happy with my purchase

I'm really happy with my 981 Cayman S PDK. It had 32k on it when I bought it, and it's got about 42k now. The only thing I've had to get fixed was a warning message on the dash about a PADM, which was shorted internally. Luckily that fell under CPO warranty. The first oil change at 38k I had sent off to Blackstone Laboratories for analysis and the results came back really clean compared to engines of the same type, and at a typical interval of about 3800 miles. I drive it at least once a week, and a lot more when it's nice outside. Absolutely love it, I hope it lasts a long time. I plan on putting a lot of miles on it.

987.1 2.7 Boxster/Cayman: Less than 1% IMS failure rate (2006+ models), no significant bore scoring issues, typical maintenance items - many of which can be done by the owner. Selling prices between $20K-$35K for decent mileage examples. Great value for such a well balanced, great handling car…!

Bought my lowish miles (2005 with 39k miles at the time) 997.1 C2S Manual (first Porsche) from a Porsche specialist here in the UK just over 2 years ago so it’s had all the checks for bore score, IMS etc done. Engine sounds sweet but I avoid short trips, keep the revs low until it’s fully warmed up and have the oil changed every 12 months even though it’s only a weekend/fun car but gets used all year. No garage either but I look after it as best I can apart from that. The independent Porsche service I use actually drain the oil, refill, run, drain then fill again to completely clean it out. Can’t do much more than what I’m doing to prevent bore scoring but if it happens, it happens.

If I was lucky enough to have my Porsche I would want Nathan as my mechanic. Good information. Wow.

Gen 2 997 or 987 with the DFI engine would resolve any worries of bore scoring and IMS problems, plus an upgraded PCM. I'm lucky enough to have a Cayman R, I decided to spend the extra on the newer DFI, rather than worry about paying the extra on an engine re-build. Same engines as the newer 981 & 991 but with analogue steering.

I have had a 987 3.2 Boxster for four years now. It’s rock solid. Great car.

Bought an unloved and salvage titled 996 Carrera several years ago. No issues. Car has been amazing. Engine is strong, and has over 120,000 miles on it now. Just got a gold star Blackstone oil analysis back on it. I drive it everywhere, including on track. You aren't necessarily going to have problems if you buy an old 996. These are generally great cars, built with great care, and ready to deliver lots of miles and fun. Numbers don't lie, and 70% of all 911s ever built are still on the road, and the 996 was one of the most popular, and sold in very high numbers. If you listen to this guy you would think buying a 996 was a guaranteed future of catastrophic engine failure and financial ruin. Just not the case. I had mine repainted last year, and even with the cost of a full glass out respray, my total cost in this 911 is less than a bad condition 997. Buy what you want and what you can afford, but if all you can afford is a 996, go ahead and get one. You might regret it sure, but you might regret anything you decide to do, and more likely than not you will love it. If the engine blows just V8 swap it and have more fun. Also I like the GT1 headlights, they look good. Also 997s look like VW Beetles, ya I said it.

I've really been debating a 981 cayman s vs a 997.2 or 997.2 s Your input is just nice to hear

You can’t lump 997 with 996. The 997.2 (09-12) is a perfect car. I’ve owned mine for 10 years and drive it regularly. No ims issues. I also own an 86 3.2.

I’ll try to be brief and succinct. Please anyone jump in and comment as I’m not Porsche expert. I’ve been doing a lot of research and this is what I’ve learned: For the purpose of this narrative there are generally different generations of Porsche engines: #1. Air cooled engines until Model Year (MY) 1998 #2. Introduction of water-cooled engines MY 1998 to 2011. #3. Refined water-cooled engines MY 2012 to 2018. Lastly, #4 MY 2019 to Present. COATINGS: #1. Nikasil coating used on air-cooled engines. #2. Lokasil/Alusil used on water cooled engines up to MY 2018. #3.SUMEbore used in engines MY 2019 and later. SUMEbore is expensive and is a game changer. It does away with old cross hatch honing that’s been used forever. It uses a plasma tool to create porosity in the cylinder liners which are microns in size. After the plasma tool a second tool is used to re-surface the cylinder walls. What is known to date: Nikasil was a more robust coating than Lokasil. Seemingly air-cooled engines didn’t have bore-scoring with Nikasil. 2. Lokasil was used on 996/997 and bore-scoring is problematic, especially in cooler climates. Lastly, SUMEbore on late model Porsches. Can anyone provide more information on SUMEBore???? Based upon my research the most logical path forward for me is to purchase a 2020 or later Porsche. I cannot rationalize buying an older Porsche for 60K and putting anther 20K into it. Thoughts?????????

Great video! Very informative and that helped me out on knowledge on those Porsches .. thanks

I opted for a 981S over a 997 to benefit from newer engine development, eliminating the fear of IMS and bore score. 991 same benefits.

Thank you you're doing what none of these Porsche reviewers won't do and that's the 986 is a cheap car because it had a ton of issues.

Thank you, you are the last honest and logical thinking Porsche advisor.

Good honest advice, big thanks!

Great video again:) interesting the price difference in the USA to the UK. I thought they were expensive here! 🤣

Thanks for the video. Not certain what you recommended. A 991 or 992 for $100K? Does the new engine in the 2009-2012 997 series engine also face bore scoring?

In your comments you keep saying 996 or 997 but there is a huge distinction between 997.1 and 997.2 . The 9a1 engine is much better then the M97 engine. You need to be more clear for the people who are new to Porsche. I would have purchased a 997.1 if it had not been for a friend of mine who had two M96 engine grenade. Plus the PCM 3.0 system was a huge improvement over the 2.0 system.

Legend, love the honesty.

Thanks Nathan, glad I saw some of your videos on the topic, know I have the information to buy a 911 if I would like. If I am I need one with the engine done and pay more.

Thank you , I sold my 1982 911 SC when my daughter was born, every day I cry, lmy daughter has cost me 100,000 plus, waaaaaa. always loved the 911, ran it at Sebring with Porsche club, good times. Still nothing runs like a 911, period end of story IMHO, but the deep pockets it's like going threw two bad divorces at the same time. Thanks Nathan you help me with my BMW, much appreciated Cheers. Pops Fl

good analysis,thanks, very happy with my 981 base boxster with PDK "most obedient vehicle I have ever owned''

Thanks for the advice I'm glad I didn't get to in debt for a 2003 996 😎🏎️

Interesting content Nathan.... still waiting for more M5 content hope you don't give it up

I got 4th 996 and two 986 and never had ims, issues and everything you mentioned. Replaced seals on spark plug tubes, engine mounts, AOS , that’s it , also I do regular oil change After your “professional “ advice it’s better to buy Kia

944. Just got one. I get more attention in that car then any other Porsche I've been in. Also have a 981 6 speed 😊😊

996 Turbo -X50 hands down

Drove a 981S/PDK for a year as I wanted to experience a p-car. Loved the flat six, but not the attention. People think you are driving an more expensive car than it really is. After 1 year, I sold it before prices dropped 10-12%, and will continue to drop in Q1/Q2 2023. I started driving my Honda S2000 again. Although the engines on the 981 are solid and trouble free at 50K Miles, I did not want to drive a PDK car long term without a warranty (although PDK failure are low, replacement cost is very high at $20K, and Porsche does not offer support with parts for repair). For the money, I wasn't getting much more enjoyment than my extremely reliable and raw Honda S2000 for less than half the price. Looking to get into a manual 981 GT4 eventually. Still a Porsche enthusiast and PCA member.

4 years ago I purchased a 987.1 CS with 14k miles on it for 28k with a 71k build sheet (had many extras). I am at 52k miles. LOVE IT!!!! I do my oil changes and break pad changes....It is WAY less expensive than I ever imagined. I am going to do the surpentine belt soon.. YOU TUBE MECHANIC!!!

Why no commentary in the 991’s? Any major problems on them, I haven’t heard any (IMS, bore scoring) so that’s why I bought a 991.1 manual, 2015. I like to know your thoughts on the 991.1 gen. Thanks!

I’m still not convinced you’re a real Porsche mechanic…because Porsche mechanics don’t call them “Porsh”

Which gen is the first where you don’t have bore scoring problems?

You didn’t really talk about the major differences between 997.1 and .2 outside of the PDK. It’s a completely different engine. No IMS issues and far less bore scoring. It’s always good idea to do a detailed PPI and scope the bores. With a good inspection and maintenance history plus check ECU Rev numbers you can feel better about getting that affordable 997.2.

I traded my 997.1 911 turbo cab with 25000 kms in 2022 for a new 2022 718 spyder. Almost an even trade. I recognize the future classic attributes to the 997.1 that I traded but there is no question the Spyder is so much more enjoyable to drive hard and you can drive it hard without risking your license and life. Also I no longer worry every time I drive the car. Too many people I know have had to spend $40,000 on an engine problem when those Mezger engine have problems and need a rebuild. It always made me want to keep it in the garage vs just enjoy driving it. The Spyder and GT4 is the last of their kind especially in manual. The simplicity of these cars, no Turbo’s along with the perfect power to weight ratio will make them collectors. Just need to hold onto them for 15-20 years!

I have a 2000 C2 Cab. Did the IMS, AOS, oil cooler and the Variocams were checked and the pads, solenoids and chains were changed. Now I hope I have piece of mind for a while but I’m already itching about upgrading!. 😮

Buy a mid miles 996. Run it enjoy it. Once hits high miles rebuild the engine and drive it again. Total costs will still be less than a new one if you could buy one for msrp. Every gas engine will need to be rebuilt in its life. Some sooner than others and the more high performance the more it costs

Buy a 944 Turbo S or a 968……. GREAT car that easily maintained by Porsche standards and it’s sorta a DIY Porsche.

Been driving my 996c4s for 11 years, 58000 miles, spent the 5g and did the IMS and clutch, ..never had a problem

thanks for your vid...i have a quick question for you. I have a 2006 Cayman S (987) with 78k miles. Runs great! do you think I should be concerned with Bore Scoring, now that i have more miles on the car? I appreciate your vids. thanks.

Interesting perspective. So happy with my 981 S.

997.2 👌

I believe the bore scoring issue is the result of a fuel/environment issue. From what I've researched, it was first thought that cold weather starts affected the bores so cars from canada and northern climate type places like that. Then, it seems winter fuel could be the issue. I think this issue, like the IMS may have been blown out of proportion thanks to the internet. That said, I think if you want to mitigate your risks for buying a problematic 997, get a later build 2006 or newer. That solves the IMS issue for the most part. Then, get a PPI of course, but bore scope more importantly. Then, get a low mileage/low owner with great work history. And buy a 997 from warmer/dry climate states. Lastly, be sure you can perform a cold start or at least get a video of a cold start. No initial soot/smoke out of the left tail pipe. That should get you a well sorted 997. By the way, all this advice is if you're on a serious budget. If you're not, you can avoid the issues altogether and just buy a 997.2 (2009-2012). Completely different engine.

Facts. I’m out on the 9A1 that many think is the epitome of NA mid range Porsche experience. My 997.2 Targa 4S mt was on its 3rd motor (66k miles) when I sold it in ‘22. Had a powertrain warranty replacement and the long-block cost from Porsche was $27k with new injectors. F that. I’m shopping 991.2s when the market cools off.

Nathan, This is my favorite show you've ever done. And I've watched a lot. I felt like you were talking to your brother, straight up and in plain terms. I'm lucky - I've got a 25 year old Boxster that only has 32,000 miles on it and it just goes and goes. So far ..... Really enjoyed this show. Jim in Denver

I own a 2012 911 997.2 Carrera S with 30K miles., would you share your thoughts on these later models and pricing?

Where did you send your block to get the sleeves done, (you mentioned out country) ???

Thank you. Great video. 991 is good to know

1995 Porsche 993 turbo. Such an awesome car.

What is the company you refer to for over seas? Olin the process of tearing my 987 apart

Damn….this is an incredibly valuable video. My story? I’m in the “end game” of my 60s. When I turned 50, that year coincided with the year I was promoted in the Navy, to O6. One of my early XOs, after his divorce, bought a beautiful white 944S2 Cabriolet. When I first saw it on the pier in Norfolk, one sunny Virginia day, I fell in love (the car dammit, nit the XO. Focus! Focus!). So jump ahead, I turn 50, and sew in my fourth gold stripe, and my wife tired of me whining about wanting a Porsche. By then, rear ending Porsches were out of my range….and I kept coming back to that 944 cab…and found one. A very low mileage, all records, Baltic Blue with full leather “linen” interior. I still have that beauty….and now living in New England, she is stored six months of the year. She gets compliments EVERYTIME we go out….but I’d be lying if I didn’t admit to at least some 911 envy….maybe even a Boxster S. And right now, my still low mileage, (barely 68k on the clock) all services, everything works 944s2 is bringing silly money. But….approaching 70….maybe I’m better off believing that “the devil you know, is better than the one that you don’t”. Bravo-Zulu, we’ll done sir….this was indeed, a very informative video. I no longer have the patience, tools or workspace, to turn my own wrench. So your information in this video is invaluable….at least to me. And sadly, so true about younger people and manual transmissions. I forced all my three kids to learn on a shift stick. We (my wife and I) felt that doing so, kept their attention on driving, versus their damned iPhones! Thank you, sir!

These price values are bonkers. It has been a bit more than 25 years since I built my last 914, a 73 1.8 that I paid $800 with a occasionally functioning Bosch EFI. I rectified engine issues by replacing the problematic Type IV and quadrupling the power with a turbocharged Type I, and a 915 conversion with LSD. I installed 916 flares, 911/944 brake components, aftermarket suspension, interior refresh with Sheel seats, Momo wheels and a complete panel off respray in Bahia Red - L30E. I enjoyed this vehicle for years, selling it to buy our home in 2003. Frustrating to think of the market value in today's hyper pricing. I included in the sale all original parts I had removed.

987.2 Cayman S is the BEST one to buy. Period

981 Cayman S is a dream to drive. I find just about any reason to take it out for a drive.

Where would I go to buy panels for the rear trunk area?

Where are you sending your engines to get resleeved?

Yes boys. I have a 996 turbo manny. Hard to go wrong. And I am rolling the dice. I have a 987 Cayman S. But, it’s from warm HI so I think I’m good. 65k on the clock. Manny as well. And another roll. I just picked up a 970 Panamera turbo with the ceramics for cheap. High miles. Let her ride. Cheers.

I bought a 958(Cayenne) it was on the higher end of my budget, but I am alot happier with it than the 955/957s I was looking at. 20,000 miles on it since purchase and no issues, other than age related issues...Tires, plugs, etc.

100% correct! Six years ago I bought a 99 996.1 from second owner (a doc) and it had the cleanest PPI the mid-west P dealer had ever done. $12k car, easily spent another $12k in first 3 years alone (including IMS LN Eng, and IMS in car was not orig), and I stopped keeping score after. Awesome driving experience. I was warned by auto salesman I knew personally that it’d be $3k/yr as parts wore out etc, I did not want to hear that, and it has been true! Per Boxster/Cayman, yes, they handle better and have lower learning curve. IF you fit inside; I fit and 911 back seats immensely helpful per my kids. If my engine blows up, yes I will probably pay the $20k for Flat6innovations to rebuild it so it never happens again. 996 plastic interior? Yep, but my Jag XJ6 already has good leather, wood and chrome. Yep, Lexus GSF has epic V8 and RWD gear-based torque vector diff, and yet, 996.1 cable throttle is a fine balance of driving qualities and I’m keepin it

I'm interested on your thoughts of 996 /997 turbos vs 991/992 Carrera S?

Thank you. Great advice from a true expert. Really appreciate your video.

Mezger cars are the best. They have none of the issues mentioned above.

What’s your take on the 718 Cayman/boxster?

New to channel. What about the air cooled 964 and 993?

I have a 2005 987 Boxster manual. I don't have had big issues but quite a lot small ones. I'm now looking for a good solution for my catalys. The inside came loose. Should I buy a used one from ebay or try to have it rebuild?

Should have mentioned that the phase 2 engines for 987 have no bore scoring and are way better.

I have a 2000 986 S manual. I have done the IMs clutch rear main seal.. complete suspension upgrade. Brand new tires. Cooling system overflow tank. I have 12 k USD in the car. It is a wonderful car and I hate the interior's on the 987 they look like a Toyota to me. Could not be happier. Car also has a tune on it and is very fast...3 years ..no issues..

Very interesting video. I live in the UK and have recently purchased a 997.2 PDK Carrera 2 in Black with Black. It’s a 2010 car and has just ticked over to 50,000 miles. Full Porsche History and I paid £37k for it. I’d be interested to know if you think that was a good purchase? I did do a fair bit of research prior to buying it and am aware that the gen 2 997’s are much more reliable and as I was more keen on an auto, I new the PDK would be more popular than the previous tiptronic gearbox. Thanks in advance of your feedback. Kind Regards, Simon.

This really pumps me up for getting an old porsche jajaja

What are your thoughts on a 2014 cayman s manual? Is this a good madel

I personally have a 2009 997.2 manual transmission 3.6 and I think that’s the sweet spot so I’m not sure what he’s talking about. If you can find the second generation 997 and a manual you’ve got it made as far as I’m concerned.

They sold 175000 996s and they are all 20 to 30 years old. If they are all bombs they would be all in junkyards by now. The prices are going up on these cars because if they are maintained well they ARE reliable and as Nattie himself says, more reliable than their German alternatives. No reputable shop says they all bore score. Weird statement to make. He's right when he says that they are expensive to repair if they aren't well maintained before you get hold of them. But there's a well documented path to success with these cars and the rising market prices reflect this.

If I wanted to stay under $40k, and i'd be looking for a sunday cruiser, convertible, fun to drive but not necessarily needing insane power (i have an EV for that), what would you recommend?

I'll keep my 991.2. Bulletproof and Cobb tune. Same performance as a 992 S.

This guy answers questions with questions, wtf am I watching....

I've a 1996 993 C2 iris blue metallic, 66,000 miles, 6-speed manny tranny, varioram, LSD. No CEL, no oil leaks. Multi-show full-concours winner. I do my own maintenance. I'm never selling it.

I feel we just went down a rabbit hole on how Porsche 911s aren’t reliable but I’ve heard otherwise and not sure what to believe now…

Thanks for the reality check.