For most UK buyers, the best used Porsche 911 is a 997.2 Carrera S or a 991.1 Carrera S. Both are reliable, rewarding and fast enough, and both are priced sensibly. The "best" one for you depends on what you want the car to do, so here is my honest answer for each generation.
Best used 911 by generation
| Generation | Years | My pick | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 964 | 1989–1994 | Carrera 2 manual coupé | Classic air-cooled feel |
| 993 | 1994–1998 | Carrera 2 or 4S | The last air-cooled, a long-term keeper |
| 996 | 1997–2005 | Turbo (Mezger) | Value and performance |
| 997 | 2004–2012 | 997.2 Carrera S / GTS | The all-round sweet spot |
| 991 | 2011–2019 | 991.1 Carrera S / GTS | Everyday usability, last N/A engines |
| 992 | 2019– | Carrera T or S | The newest and most complete |
What is the most reliable used 911?
In my experience, the 9A1-engined cars: the 997.2 and the 991. They have no intermediate shaft bearing and far fewer bore issues. Among older cars, a well-kept 993 is very robust, and the Mezger-engined 996 Turbo is close to bulletproof.
Which used 911 is the best investment?
I'd never sell a car as an investment, but manual, coupé, well-specified examples with complete history have held up best: 993s, 997 GTS, 991.1 GTS and the GT cars. Buy the one you'll enjoy driving. If it holds its value too, that's a bonus.
What is the best value 911 right now?
The 996 Carrera, bought carefully, with its IMS position understood. Read my IMS bearing guide first, then see the cars I have now.
Quick answers
What is the best used Porsche 911 to buy?
For most UK buyers, a 997.2 Carrera S or a 991.1 Carrera S: reliable, rewarding and sensibly priced.
What is the most reliable used Porsche 911?
The 9A1-engined 997.2 and 991 generations, plus the air-cooled 993 and the Mezger-engined 996 Turbo.
What is the best value Porsche 911?
A carefully bought 996 Carrera, with its IMS bearing history understood.
