2005 Porsche 911 (997.1)

Hailing from the first model year for the 997, this lovely example is one of just 6,239 Carrera Coupe models produced in 2005. This example is a UK supplied and specified model being supplied to the lucky first owner by Porsche Reading. Ordered in Seal Grey Metallic livery with a black leather interior. Many valuable optional extras were specified, too, including heated seats, 19-inch wheels, active suspension (PASM), tilt and slide steel sunroof and five speed Tiptronic gearbox.

With six previous keepers current owner, Lee, acquired the 911 in April 2019 at which point it had covered a shade over 87,000 miles. In the intervening years Lee has added around 7,500 miles to bring the total today to 94,485 miles. During Lee’s tenure the 911 has been diligently cared for between a Porsche dealer, an independent Porsche specialist and a historic race car garage. This continues the excellent, documented service history that was undertaken by previous owners.

Lee notes that the 997 was inspected a few months ago for bore score and no issues were found. During Lee’s ownership the following work has been done - starter motor and power cable to battery replaced, both front suspension legs and some linkages renewed. The steering rack has been replaced as has the oil pressure switch, exhaust brackets and gaskets. The 911 is offered complete private registration plate NO1 9455 and ready to use, relish and enjoy immediately.

Grant Larson ensured that this 997 is a handsome beast and much more evocative of revered earlier models than the 996 had been. Along with the welcome return to upright, round headlamps the design team had added a more muscular treatment to the rear haunches, lending the car the demeanour of a sprinter on the blocks anticipating the crack of the starting pistol.

This example presents in bright Seal Grey Metallic which suits the iconic 911 profile extremely well. The optional, 19-inch Carrera Classic multi spoke alloy wheels fit the arches admirably and seem to be the Goldilocks configuration for the 997.1. The condition of these looks great and the red finished, Porsche inscribed callipers look bright and clean, too.

For a 19-year-old car having covered over 90,000 miles the condition of both paintwork and bodywork must surely be considered excellent. Age-related blemishes and marks seem very hard to spot with just some minor paint bubbling noted around the bonnet mounted Porsche emblem. The paint exhibits a deep and lustrous shine throughout, and the panel gaps appear of the usual Porsche “weapons-grade” calibre.

Other 997 signatures include the twin, chromed, oval tail pipes and active rear spoiler that deploys at around 70mph or can be operated at will from the cabin. The steel tilt and slide sunroof is noted and the rear windows appear to have received some additional, supplemental tinting.

Much like the exterior, the comfortable cabin remains “recognisably 911” and, as such, superbly fitted and finished. Predominantly trimmed in Black leather, the interior exudes a sporting yet luxurious ambiance. The high-backed “tombstone” sports seats are a highlight, exquisitely finished in perforated leather. The front seats are electrically adjustable and heated and provide an admirable amount of support in the twisties. There is even a three position memory setting for the driver’s seat. The overall condition seems excellent with only the odd switch and button exhibiting some wear and tear.

The rear seats look completely unsullied by bottoms, which is understandable given their positively Lilliputian dimensions. They provide perfect accommodation for up to two small canine friends and do fold forward to provide some very useful additional storage. The headlining is courtesy of a grey coloured, sophisticated Alcantara fabric.

The carpets are in a complementary dark hue and retain a good pile. Protection is provided by Porsche branded carpet over mats. The door cards are trimmed in the same Black leather and appear pristine. The multifunction steering wheel sits ahead of a comprehensive instrument binnacle with the big, signature 911 tachometer mounted slap, bang in the centre and hence always in the driver’s eye-line. The centre console houses assorted switchgear and the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) screen and climate control module. The Tiptronic gear selector is mounted here, and manual gear changes can also be performed via wheel mounted switches. Other refinements include parking sensors, heated windscreen and cruise control.

The front luggage compartment is trimmed in matching black carpet and houses the original warning triangle. The Porsche CD changer and satellite navigation DVD drive are safely stashed away in a bulkhead locker here, too.

The 3.6L water-cooled M96.05 engine fitted to the 997.1 Carrera was originally rated at 325bhp at 6,800 rpm and 273 Ib-ft of torque at 4.250 rpm. This is mated to a five-speed Tiptronic transmission in this model. The Tiptronic transmission can be used as a full automatic or as a clutch-less manual transmission with changes performed either by steering wheel mounted switches or sequentially via the chunky gear lever. This configuration was originally sufficient for a sub five second 0-60mph time and a 170 mph plus top speed. Highly competitive today, let alone in 2005.

As mentioned earlier, owner Lee has commissioned plenty of preventative and routine maintenance in his ownership. This has served to augment the excellent and documented maintenance overseen by the previous keepers. It should come as no surprise then that engine bay of this example looks both well maintained and highly original. In true 911 form, however, there not too much to see underlining the remarkable packaging of this Teutonic titan. The underside of the car appears to be straight and leak free with no areas of concern noted.

This 997 comes with a range of provenance providing paperwork as you will see from our 40-plus image photographic package. First and foremost is the current V5 registration document in Lee’s name and noting six previous owners. The current, advisory free MoT is present and is valid until June 2025. Additionally, every MoT back to 2009 is present in hard copy.

The original book pack is present which includes the all-important service book. This contains 11 service stamps as well as further stamps for brake fluid changes and body inspections. The bulk of the remainder of the archive consists of numerous invoices for maintenance undertaken including for the work detailed earlier.

Of course, there are no real duffers in the long, illustrious lineage of the 911. Inevitably some generations are more accomplished, attractive and popular than others, however. After the slightly ho-hum reign of the 996, the 997 marked a refreshing return to form. It was a more focussed, better resolved and more attractive proposition in almost every respect. No wonder that it has gone on to be a true purists’ choice today.

This example stands out as a great exemplar of an important 911 model, too. In an entirely original condition and compete with plenty of valuable and desirable options, it’s a real cracker. Mix in a popular livery, exemplary service history and a personalised number plate and this is a 997 that will offer the true 911 experience at what may prove to be a surprisingly attainable price point.

Our estimate for this car is £16,000 - £20,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT and we are open weekdays between 10am - 12pm or 2pm - 4pm. To make a booking, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.