Can a 560hp, 200mph Turbo Porsche Really Be BORING? I Drive the 991 911 Turbo S

[@fullwerkes]

Hi All, I was the owner of this wonderful Turbo S. The DSC controller was just misconfigured so I was at fault here not the car. Once I had reset it, it worked again beautifully and the ride was exceptional. We tried to get another date going for a drive once it was sorted but by then I had sold the vehicle and bought a 992 GT3. Massive thank you to my friend James, what an exceptional journalist he is.

[@patricebaumel]

How does your GT3 stack up against a well sorted Turbo s?

[@fullwerkes]

@@patricebaumel I've only had it for a few days so too early to give my honest view. Thus far, the GT3 chassis is much stiffer and you can feel the lightness of the car. Totally different cars in many ways.

[@michaelp6794]

Yeah, I love my car. I’ve had it for longer than any other car. It’s a 2015 and I’ve owned it since it was a year old. 🤷‍♂️ fast fun and I have a convertible.

[@w75525]

How was the DSC box misconfigured? I was considering buying one myself.

[@fullwerkes]

@@w75525 ride height wasn't zero'd.

[@lloydgriffiths1847]

I think by too boring most people mean too fast and too capable to enjoy

[@rahulmandala4930]

I'd say location is the prime deciding factor for these cars. Like, if cars like this Turbo were living in somewhere in the city or downtown, then they might be boring. Otherwise, given the opportunity on some open roads and winding roads, most would actually cane these cars and have fun doing so.

[@mAthXjAzz]

@@rahulmandala4930Sure. Made for the Autobahn.

[@JP-cu2gm]

@@lloydgriffiths1847 I used to have a modified Impreza, so capable, it did get a little boring. Ripping g forces while accelerating round mini roundabouts in 2nd gear is fun for a while, or munching 911s and Maseratis on the straights but there’s really only so fast you can drive on the roads. My old M3 rear wheel drive was slower but never boring.

[@remyharel7171]

Not really. Dull sound compared to GT3 or naturally aspired engines, 4WD and heavy, that's why we call it too boring ;) I prefer naturally aspired engines, lighter, rear wheel drive cars. But as the videos states it very clearly, it depends if you want a comfortable GT you can drive daily or if you want a toy to play with on week-ends. Both are great cars, but the best one if the one that suits you needs best.

[@TheJohn8765]

@@JP-cu2gm It's better to drive a slow car fast than it is to drive a fast car slow.

[@michaelp6794]

I own this car and if you want zero turbo lag, put it in sport plus. Also, it’s my third Porsche. I started with a Carrera S convertible then I moved it to a turbo convertible and now I have the turbo S convertible. To me, it’s the best car I have ever owned and I’ve owned a bunch.

[@e36s54]

Lag is not fixed by a mode.... yes I've driven the car in sport plus. The VTG turbos def help lag.... but it's still there and very much real.

[@rosemont83]

He has a boost leak

[@SicSemperBeats]

@@e36s54 Bruh you gotta dct, upgraded turbos and you're driving a modern car. How little lag do you guys actually want? Get an NA car at that point lol. Thats what I did went from n54 platform to a 981 boxster. I still like turbos though, a little lag is fun to me imo

[@DoubleA115]

I love mine too. Sport and Sport + does liven it up but TBH it is fast enough std. Just like everything about the car, the shape, the history of the company and i don't need to be flying to have fun. Just a nice day, Ray-bans on with the hood down and some Deep House through the Burmester's.

[@georgikorchev8574]

James, interesting review! As an owner of the same model, I can confirm that there are no issues with the suspension and it rides beautifully in regular mode (it's much more comfortable that the 981 Cayman I previously had and on par with a DB11). In Sports + it stiffens up dramatically which is to be expected. As for the turbo lag, I think in regular mode this is to be logically expected. It's probably the way the Turbo S is set up because you have to really commit to the throttle to get that huge performance in regular mode (otherwise it would make the car un-drivable in my opinion). In Sports +, there is very small turbo lag and the throttle response and gear changes really sharpen up. Personal opinion, but I do like a little turbo lag - the tiny pause you get before the big shove has been part of the turbo experience for 50 years! It's an amazing car and by far the best I have driven! In regular mode, it drives almost like a Bentley Continental GT. Turn it into Sports + and you get an experience close to a GT2RS. How many cars have that versatility?

[@makalu69]

I had one - as a daily driver it simply doesn't get any better - unless you need to carry more than 1 person.

[@Kacpa2]

3000GT VR4 is much better than it, both as a grand tourer and practical daily. It also has all the gizmos like active aero and adaptable suspension and exhaust. Over 20 years prior to release of this.

[@sambyf2445]

@@Kacpa2heavy.

[@claudiomarangone614]

@@Kacpa2 I used to be a precision car driver for car ads. I driven a lot of fine sports cars cars Mitsubishi 3000 GT VR4 is a good GT, not a sports car like a 911, especially one of that era. The Mitsubishi Lack of steering feedback, heavy weight is heavy is it distinct difference and feel between the two cars…… and don’t get me started on the power difference, driving dynamics and looks. don’t help it compete against any 911 if you drive them back to back…Clear difference.

[@jbrandon302]

@@Kacpa2 good one! lol

[@daniels.2720]

Passengers are sooo overrated...

[@keithrichards-io5db]

I’ve had turbos , a 991.2 gt3 and now a 991.2 gt3RS. I’d say that the turbos are more fun on the street because of the torque but the gt3’s are way better sounding, better handling and lighter. None are boring. Just different

[@diremond3700]

What's a 911.2 GT3?

[@keithrichards-io5db]

@ oops.. meant 991.2

[@diremond3700]

@@keithrichards-io5db Ah! Thank you.

[@mich5528]

@@keithrichards-io5db I have a 991.2 GT3 manual… very capable car. Mind if I ask why did you switch to the RS version? And not the 992 GT3 :)

[@mich5528]

@@keithrichards-io5db I have a 991.2 GT3 manual… very capable car. Mind if I ask why did you switch to the RS version? And not the 992 GT3 :)

[@noobymcnoobs]

Absolutely spotless car, as you would expect given the owner. It’s a lovely car and looks so good in photos.

[@stevensofroniou]

I’ve owned 4 turbos in different eras and anyone who calls a turbo boring simply doesn’t know what they are talking about !!

[@computerhelpcc]

991 PDK Turbo was is boring. Car and Driver group of drivers were emphatic at the time on that point.

[@marcinhernik1270]

Test drove 997.2 and 996 turbo's, these cars warp your sense of speed when you're on boost compared to gt3's which are our pure melodic bliss.

[@AndrewAdigun]

exactly.. they dont all have lag.. even the 900t16 saabs didnt either..ppl just dont know how to drive them.. i had one for years.. probably the most fun i had in a car

[@computerhelpcc]

@ the launch to Warp is remarkable albeit at cost of many small engine sounds that are muffled away per turbos plumbing et al

[@budhajek6279]

@@computerhelpcc I have one, crazy torque pushing you in the seat, crazy traction coming out of corners, zero to sixty in 2.6, engine that is very tunable, etc...... If that's boring, I am ok with that.

[@doctorleitz4795]

I’ve had a 991.2 Turbo for 4 years now. It’s been flawless, bought from a main dealer with Porsche’s excellent approved used warranty. Whilst it hasn’t exactly been cheap to run it’s been brilliant. I’ve taken it to Stuttgart from UK twice, done 180mph (enough for me!) on the Autobahn, and driven it around towns and cities. It is never phased by anything. I am not sure why there is so much made of the ride in this review. My car is 100% standard, so perhaps not fiddling with aftermarket fripperies is the wise thing. Porsche engineers generally get it right. The 991.2 is of course a better car than the 991.1, even just for the 918 style steering wheel. If you want one, just go for it. In the 991 of either generation there is not much discernible difference between the Turbo and Turbo S really. Just bragging rights, a few bhp and carbon ceramics (which I didn’t want) Oh, and yes, forgot to say it’s bloody quick too. In all weathers. Truly a car for crossing continents. In all seasons.

[@autodigitvlogs]

Its the gold standard so we are told

[@hpman911]

I part exchanged my 997.2 GT3 for a used 991.2 Turbo S from a Porsche main dealer. Its standard and has been a brilliant car in every respect and far more useable than my GT3 which really only came into its own on track days. I've used it similar to yourself and it really is a true multi purpose car which always gives a thrill, certainly not boring !!!

[@katzicael]

I'd never get bored in that. Never.

[@EvoraGT430]

You would, honestly. Everyone's in your way and you cannot use more than 10% of its capabilities without losing your license. I had one and it becomes very frustrating.

[@heroinwithease]

Take the plates off and send it ​@@EvoraGT430

[@vektorr4]

@EvoraGT430 early weekend morning B road is always the answer

[@xx-----------xx873]

If you owned a 997 GT3 alongside it you probably would.

[@3ducs]

@@EvoraGT430 I agree. In the real world, not the world experienced on race tracks or in dreams, cars that are so fast and that never put a foot wrong are boring. With cars like this you never feel under or over steer, you never feel tires fighting for grip, you never feel the satisfaction of well executed gear shifts. I have a '16 Mazda MX-5 and a '16 Jaguar F-Type 3.0S manual transmission coupe. I enjoy the Jaguar, it at least lets me stir the gears and it makes a glorious noise, but the Mazda allows me to drive the twisty foothills of the White Mountains of New Hampshire, USA, the way they should be experienced. Even the Mazda is too controlled though, an older chassis on smaller and higher profile tires would give more of a driving experience at fairly legal speeds. To that end I'm trying to buy a 1971 Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV from a local car hoarder, it is straight and complete but very rusty, I can restore it if he will sell it to me. 911s are common here but I know that their owners are just getting them for image, as you stated they can't use them at more than 10% of their potential on the roads.

[@deanparker7867]

As the owner of 2017 991.2 Turbo S that is totally stock and a 987.1 Cayman S with a DSC Controller and a former owner of 2009 Nissan GTR with 600 whp I am qualified to correct you on all counts, lol. First, the DSC controller is WONDERFUL and was not made by some dude in a shed. Research his company and his work. Its a a sheer thrill to drive the Cayman with that controller. I know you have such a Cayman.... you should consider this mod. It is very carefully tuned and will make a believer out of you once sorted. I am not familiar with all of the enhancements between 991.1 and 991.2 so I can't tell you you are wrong about the steering and the lag, but 991.2 turbo s does feel laggy in normal mode but no more so than my GTR. In sport and sport plus there is almost no sensation of lag. They aggressively keep the turbos spinning so the car always feels right at the boiling point all the time. I think the steering in the 991.2 is fantastic and is almost as good as the hydraulic feeling in the cayman but I do prefer the way the wheel feels alive in the cayman more. The GTR feels heavier and less nimble ALL of the time and is so stiff (2009) that it makes the Turbo S in Normal mode feel like a GT3 in Race mode. I LOVED my GTR and had it for 15 years, but the 991.2 is a superior experience in every way... except for one. The GTR is a magnet for attention no matter where, no matter what. I feel utterly incognito when I drive the Turbo. Your mileage may vary. My GTR was very heavily modified so I do miss the WOT roar of that thing. It had a very distinctive sound. You always know when a modded GTR is nearby! The stock Turbo S is quite "mature" in the sound department, but yeah if you are willing to pay for it you can get the same kind of enhanced scream if you need it. These days though being able to turn up the Burmeister sound and actually HEAR and feel it instead of the constant exhaust drone of my past is a revelation. Nothing I enjoy more than thrashing the Turbo S in Sport Plus mode while feeling the bass. Nothing boring about any of this. I feel blessed to have driven any of these cars.

[@Rocco532]

After driving personal 997, when I was invited by Porsche to try out 991.2’s 4, S and Turbo S on both normal roads and track I couldn’t believe how huge (the size) and boring they were, especially the 4. Turbo S was just too fast and too big to enjoy it on normal Mediterranean roads. Was so happy when I sat back in 997, it’s like a crazy maniac Miata and I still have it.

[@cfm5610]

Unpopular opinion: 991.1 Turbo S looks better than the facelift and the sound, good grief, intoxicatingly good! There is just something about the intake whoosh and the deep, sharp, raspy flat-six note of this 911 model that words can't explain. Only some will understand what I mean.

[@salvatoremuoio4736]

Understand exactly what you mean. The sound of the car fits its personality to the tee.

[@zobbizobbi]

991.2 much better looking

[@phillsmith9255]

I started loving 911's when the turbo was the halo car, before GT3's were a thing. I love the fact that the turbo/s will be quicker than the equivalent GT3 on any given roas and quick around a lot of tracks, especially longer ones.

[@salvatoremuoio4736]

I own this model since new. Purchased one of the dealer launch cars in late 2013. I installed the DCC controller and hated it. Made the car too bouncy. Got rid of the DCC soon after. Never had a real issue or problem with the car after 56k miles now and I can’t honestly say I agree with many of your conclusions, however. I totally love this car… my favorite in many ways out of the six 911 I own, including a 16 GT3 RS and a 19 Speedster. It’s the kind of car that grows on you for its well balanced combination of attributes the longer you own it and drive it.

[@AntoniusTyas]

The 991.1 Turbo is a real looker, unfortunately it was eclipsed in styling terms by the 991.2 which does look just that little bit sharper. And in the Exclusive Series guise, in that Golden Yellow Metallic finish, it's just perfect. I had a pleasure of experiencing a road trip in 991.1 Turbo S. Whilst the performance is savage, it's so effortless and so comfortable in long trip I almost fell asleep. Even as a fan of 991.2 GT3 I got to concede I would enjoy spending my weekdays in 991 Turbo S instead. But only by the slightest margin. I'd have mine as 991.2 in the ultra rare Saffron Yellow Metallic tri-coat please.

[@carlhoward9527]

@@AntoniusTyas I love my Sapphire Blue 991.2 Turbo S. It's just an incredible thing. Was going to buy a 897 Turbo S but then saw prices had dropped in the 991.

[@DavidTYork]

I have had exactly this model for around three months now and I adore the car. I have previously had various 911s, including GT3, GT3 RS, and a 991.1 C2S. One of the things I do love about it is the chassis. I found it surprisingly comfortable on the road and in 'turbo nutter' mode, lovely and taut, very different to road mode. I have driven it on road and done a days hillclimbing in it (I race a Cayman R so it was an interesting comparison). I think the review is flawed as I think there is something wrong with the set-up of the car - it certainly does not describe the car that I drive daily. The turbo lag point is valid in normal mode. The PDK takes a moment to shift down, the turbos take a breathe and then whooosh! In Sport Plus mode, as you discovered, it is like a Labrador in a field full of rabbits, the main issue is holding it on the leash. I have read elsewhere that Porsche see lag as part of the 911 'turbo' character as the 991.2 cars and forward are all turbo, however, the cars that are not called turbo have less lag. Go figure. And like you, the last thing I would describe the car as is boring.

[@Reznor_Meeks]

for once I can speak out of personal experience, I've driven 5x laps on each around Las Vegas Speedway infield track on, a Ferrari 430, Nissan GT-R (R35) & a 911 Turbo S as a birthday gift, Comparing my times I was fastest by far with the 911 Turbo S, and it felt A LOT faster than the other 2, a lot more responsive handling as well The GT-R was the easiest to drive at speed of the three. It felt very planted, the steering was numb, but overall, it had just a lot of grip. The 430, besides the brand flare, felt slow. I don't know James, I wish the camera was also recording my face, because every time the boost kicked in my eyes must of multiplied in size haha boring did not define the experience ;)

[@carlhoward9527]

I have a 2017 991.2 in Sapphire Blue fully loaded. It's just an incredible machine. Such a lovely place to be and as happy plodding as pressing on.

[@knurhahn8901]

Smoky / white taillights look great on the 992 but I've never liked them on the 991.

[@Thegowfer65]

Totally agree, they look awful on this car.

[@mr488gto8]

991.2 rear lights can be fitted via a 991.2 bumper, total cost about 1500 quid 👍

[@kwebmail2007]

@@mr488gto8 yeah I'm not a huge fan of the 991.2 tail lights, theyre not that special. the 992 light bar look is pretty choice, but you have to drive a 992 to get it. :(

[@barryfastcars25]

The 991.2 Turbo is a dream car for me. The PDK is flawless, they seem to be reliable, and the updated design is one of the best 911 designs in the last 10 years. Not to mention they are ballistic fast. Still want a McLaren GT over most other cars, wish they were as high quality as this.

[@TheZakk28]

I think the 991 Turbo is a very beautiful Turbo and has a lot of appeal to many. But to me, the 997 Turbo is the best of the bunch. Plenty of power, classic beautiful design, and available manual. It’s just a more compelling package. I’ve noticed lately how much I love the 997 Turbo as a “complete” sports car. It’s not as desirable as the 992 GT3 Touring, but still one of the best Porsche experiences (especially if you can find a manual 😅).

[@Penguinracer]

I think 997 turbos and GT3's will be seen in years to come as peak water cooled 911.

[@Nord_Mann]

The 991 gen Turbo S, both facelift and original, are cruise missiles made for blasting the autobahn, without much emotion. 992 Turbo S fixes that somewhat. A regular Carrera T manual box is what you need for driver enjoyment, especially in 991 guise, or a GT Porsche.

[@Rob-Birtles1973]

Harry Metcalf has just name dropped you mate. 😊

[@olivierb9091]

Which vid? Haven't seen the last couple of him fully

[@Brett7777]

Turbo 991.2 is the one. I like GT3 of that era.

[@royevans4581]

Bike got you though! Seriously, lovely car. I would love one to compliment my Hayabusa.

[@Natepwnsu]

LOL calling the cooling fans the rear of a computer really does line up. Those 240mm fans always reminded me of a server exhaust.

[@kritti1]

I have actually never heard the word "boring" in context to this car. What you usually hear is "exciting" or "spectacular".

[@Gavin-oq5tt]

An alternative for you - especially if you are not a big fan of the wing - is the 991.2 C4S and tune it (Litchfield have a number of options) and you can get the power similar to the turbo (without the tune). For turbo lag - maybe you should be in sport+, which keeps the turbos running more than the standard setting. The suspension issues may be an issue with the DSC mod. My 991.2 does not quite live up to a 458 (I own both), but it is not far off. I do think the steering is a bit lifeless, and harder steering bushes improve that (Litchfield again), but not without a bit of compromise for daily driving.

[@hpman911]

I understand what you are saying however many UK insurers are very difficult/expensive when it comes to declaring modifications.

[@DjNikGnashers]

This or a GT3 RS. Maybe both, the Turbo S for daily, the GT3 RS for the track. My all time favourite two cars, this is a great car, I loved the 991.

[@jay_b..]

I would take the 2017 Nissan GTR any day… Its got lots of character and just makes one feel really amazing.

[@JarodRuff]

I’ve driven both the turbo s and turbo. The turbo suspension was better at soaking up bumps and didn’t seem to give anything up on curves. For a 991.1 the turbo with a tune to cover the power gap may be the sweet spot.

[@I_am_Jesus_though]

Good shout. But would the extra power be that usable on public roads I wonder

[@leekindell9937]

I have a 991.2 turbo s big spec you can borrow. But it’s running 730 bhp. So a bit up from the stock 580. Great car ride is good too. Try one with the silly dsg suspension box he’s added to this one , it’s clearly not been set up properly. Mine handles great and rides great. Never seen any pro driver car reviewer review this car and put down the suspension and engine. Odd?

[@DoubleA115]

This review explains exactly why the 991.2 is the one to have. Tweak's on the exterior & interior and they have the 3.8 lump with bigger turbo's. Introduced the GT steering wheel +. I have one and it is a keeper. Love the 991 overall sleek shape and personally think 991's will always be a desirable 911. I own 1000cc + super bikes (just for the Sunday afternoons) which are very rapid and the car is not far off the bikes .

[@SisternCharn]

A friend I have is on his 3rd 991.1 GTS.. all under CPO warranty, and all have been pretty flawed. All low miles too. In and out the shop throughout the year. Great video as always man.

[@jwright2227]

Agreed on this one. I had one from 2021 to 2023 and found it to be uninspiring and after a while found myself not desiring to take to out of the garage. Most of the drives I did were to warm the engine up after sitting for a few weeks. Sold the car and have not missed it. Seemed like a rare miss for an otherwise great platform.

[@choyayahyah]

I test drove one, at the time i had an m5 and thought it was ok but nothing too crazy. I got the 992 turbo s and loved it. Traded that for a gt3 touring 6 speed, but i should have both really. They such amazing cars

[@mikadavies660]

Boring is the description of the interior. A car that costs so much has black on black on everything inside. You struggle to even find one with coloured stitching. However, as a driving machine...it is stunning.

[@rahulmandala4930]

I'd say that when optioned out, Deep Red tone in the interior of the 991 Turbo is beautiful. Silver exterior and Deep Red Interior is the gentleman's spec for sure! Or even a Tan interior for that matter...

[@JoJoJoker]

The carbon buckets or sport seats with painted backs and a brown leather really make a difference.

[@SteveC-Shaman]

My 991.2 has burgundy interior with carbon fiber accents. I love it, especially the dash that has actual analog gauges in it. Peak 911 for me.

[@JoJoJoker]

@@SteveC-Shaman I’m member of many 911 groups (started the 997.2 one) and it’s amazing how many people absolutely hate red interiors. Carrera Red natural leather looks great.

[@kwebmail2007]

yeah mine is black leather, black carbon fibre and white stitching..... thank Stuttgart for the brightwork or it would be the pit of darkness. They're way too conservative in the paint/interior color palettes but fortunately it doesnt take much to brighten it up.

[@alfpetzer5812]

Yes. I wanted to like it desperately bit it just lost the 911 mojo. To digital, too big, too refined. It is a great car but it gave me Audi vibes. If you want great 911 Turbos you gotta go 997 or previous.

[@TomOKelly-he5js]

Turbo Lag is larger under 2750 revs, also Sport and Sport+ having previously driven the 997.2 Turbo S and 991.1 turbo S a lot,. The 991 is much more responsive. The normal mode makes it much mote like a saloon, Sport and Sport+ transform the cars character completely - much more so than its predecessors Suspension is good, DSC is quite transformational if you get the right map - see below the owner said it had the wrong Map. its also highly sensitive to set up so go to Center Gravity or a similar specialist, a giant this transforms the cars handling Steering feeling is good but light. if you grip the steering wheel you'll kill the feel. You nred to hold it quite lightly to get the feel - this is a GT end of sprots car so will never have the feel of a GT3.

[@Split_Routine]

I've owned a 2005 Gemballa gt750 Aero 3 for ten years now, before that i had the standard turbo, i have recently uploaded a walk round it and some pretty quick rolling starts. And it's definitely not boring.

[@rivaterrier]

Never put a 911 in sport mode on a British road.

[@hpman911]

Depends on the road surface. You can configure it to be in sport plus with the dampers on normal very easily.

[@Catchingcars]

I will buy my Father one of these someday! 💯🙏🏽

[@Julianpms]

That aftermarket suspension controller sounds very dodgy. Would be good if you can try a standard, unmodified car to compare it.

[@SicSemperBeats]

Its not dodgy at all. A very large amount of PASM (active suspension) cars have dsc controllers. If your struts are gonna go bad, they're gonna go bad, the controller has nothing to do with it really

[@anthonyprice3353]

just sold my 991.1 turbo , tough times! What I can tell you is that these are absolutely PHENOMENAL machines. R35 GTR? you have to be kidding.

[@charlesmoss8119]

I personally find a car that may be criticised for being ‘loose’ to be far more fun. Especially when with some four wheel drive I just find the amazing capability may deliver you there in record time but with little engagement in some instances until you are at prison speeds!

[@BigDavoNorriwong]

While Tesla exists, Porsche will never be boring

[@WaterDuckzz]

@@BigDavoNorriwong what about over ev brands bc u cant deny teslas are the ev to go for most most ppl

[@BigDavoNorriwong]

@@WaterDuckzz A massive part of the fun in driving is from the sound engines produce. EVs have none of that. No soul, no feel. Great daily drivers but terrible for spirited drives

[@maximborodyuk3773]

@@BigDavoNorriwong lol porsche turbo engines produce such an awful vacuum cleaner sound that you might as well completely let go of it Sound and character of the engine is important, but noone ever bought 911 turbo for this qualities, it's like bottom of the barrel

[@Corvolet5]

He's a typical Brit, like Clarkson. They hate the 911 so much, they'd drive any tin can on the planet over any Porsche model.

[@maximborodyuk3773]

@@rahulmandala4930 I'm sure you aware than it's a completely different engine and 911 turbo never had it. Plus "sings" is an overstatement, it's just a constant noise without much of drama you expect from 9k rpm engine. But still it's something noticeable, unlike the worst sounding sportscar engine on a planet from turbo S, especially 992.

[@VK6AB-]

Beware DSC controllers. The 991.2 was much better and the 991.1 isn't bad at all, in fact its a great daily or grand tourer.

[@w75525]

Why beware?

[@hpman911]

@@w75525see above posts !

[@Clarky006]

Iconic design, excellent in every way, yes. You can’t see a 911 and not think now that’s cool. But exciting to look at? Let’s be honest, their looks are understated for the performance they offer. They are so popular no one other than the real enthusiast really get that excited when they see a Porsche, even GT3’s. Which I think unfortunately does make them somewhat boring compared to other supercar brands.

[@vindevhunta4905]

911s are legendary

[@goodfest007]

James - never review a modified example if you are trying to give an honest comparison with other variants…of Std. 911’s.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It is never ideal but the theory was it shouldn't make things worse!

[@DavidTYork]

@@JayEmmOnCars as you said yourself, someone in a backstreet unit versus a million miles testing and tens, if not hundreds of millions of research Euros.

[@XXKXXKXX]

​@@JayEmmOnCars BTW Harry's Garage namedropped you in his video - search "depreciating wrong F80" then go to 15min30s

[@Vldpchv]

“ Mature “ says it all. Thank you for the right word

[@Kacpa2]

Its a grand touring 911, a comfy and effortless autobahn cruiser. Thats why its relatively boring compared to more sporty and fun oriented 911's and sportscars in general. Fun is at being able to drive at the limit and close to it and from textured and viceral interction and feel. Thats what GT3 is for, or smaller spprtscara like MX5 and S2000.

[@rahulmandala4930]

@@Kacpa2 That and people also like knowing what their car is capable of doing and they still like it, despite the fact that they don't flirt with even a 1/4 of the car's limits on the public roads.

[@Kacpa2]

Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4 is also of very similar sort, except its a manual transmission gran tourer and it had all the equipment this 911 has, including active aero.

[@claudiomarangone614]

Not similar at all and how it feels or drives. The 911 turbo of that era smokes it in every way

[@clownworld-honk410]

I get it, you're not much of a Porsche nut. Each to their own. Personally, I'd be embarrassed to be seen in a Ferrari... Just too desperately seeking attention at any cost. Love the channel. I embrace the diversity of people's choices... even when they're all upside down and back to front!

[@yungone969]

Think people just hate on Porsche because they always get it right.

[@claudiomarangone614]

Not everybody buys a Ferrari to only be looked at. Ferraris are in a different league.

[@SicSemperBeats]

Idk what you mean about ferrari. Its 2024, people who want to be seen buy exotic SUVs like Urus, G wagons and maybe GT3's (those influencers). I'm sure most people buying compromised, mid engine supercars are buying them because they want a ferrari (or the equivalent). That's just a lame opinion to have on a brand as an enthusiast, imo.

[@staLkerhu]

Butthurt brand fan detected...

[@liamgell]

Always had an eye for these.

[@tijanatasic8331]

Maybe unpopular, but I really dig the convertible turbo. The big spoiler with the roof down has sort of a 80s movie villain vibe about it.

[@modspell]

I feel the 991 was the epitome of the 911 profile. I love the rear end on this one especially. I wish they'd made a Sport Classic version of it.

[@butchdeadlift7551]

I just bought an el-cheapo 955 Cayenne Turbo and I like to pretend I'm the same as expensive 911 owners. I specifically love the 955 Cayenne, but the badge just does something to me lol.

[@I_am_Jesus_though]

An absolute rocketship. I'm not sure about this one, but i know the one before it you could have a manual, i love the idea of that

[@ahemgee9542]

Comment on being a rear end shunt away from being mid engined is nonsense! The block is still mounted entirely behind the rear axle line, with the transmission between the rear axle only. The reason for the engine being less visible is the same as it always was, just now with a plastic ' beauty' cover.

[@Malachi-d3n]

What an odd upload. You couldn't reach a fair conclusion as you didn't know if the suspension settings were working correctly.

[@DavidTYork]

This. I have the same car, unmodified and do not understand this review.

[@PrototypeINF]

The Turbo S is supposed to be a bit laggy. Porsche wants to maintain the classic "Turbo" character from the earyler models. At least i heared that now multiple times.

[@Blanc777]

As long as the engine is behind the axle, it can never be mid engine.

[@1ongava]

Pretty sure owner just got a 992.1 GT3, so even more thrills per mile!

[@joshb7415]

people that say porches are boring spent double the money on italian cars that are half as fast around a track

[@diremond3700]

Porsches.

[@joshb7415]

@@diremond3700 lol autocorrect

[@claudiomarangone614]

Do you believe sport cars most important value is a lap time?

[@diremond3700]

@@joshb7415 Ha! The irony 😁

[@f.kieranfinney457]

When a Ferrari misbehaves or breaks it’s ‘all part of the brand experience’. When a Porsche stumbles, well the sky is falling.

[@jeffreyb.1657]

Had a very modified 996TT. Tuned. Custom suspension - 3 way. GT2/cup car aero…gt3 buckets and special non-neck breaking harnesses for the street (Schroth). I found it boring because I could not use it on the street at over 3/10ths. It was “too” capable. I’d likely feel the same way in a GT3. And that was a much smaller, lighter, more nimble car (Oh, it had a CAE shifter and gt3 cable and race clutch and lightweight flywheel). So on track, it was fun but even there it was so fast even the instructors at PCA (even though I could go solo I liked having better drivers always with me….to learn)….felt it was just “too” fast. I have to imagine the 99x cars are even faster, more capable, more refined and so to a real driver like me or many others, are “boring” in that you cannot exploit them in the real world. It is sad really, but why I sold it. ❤. It was a wonderful car in my mind but it had problems….boost leak, glued coolant tubes…Porsche cars are great but they are not as great as the car club voices want you to think they are…they have problems galore. It was an expensive, addictive, too fast to be used at legal speeds with any excitement car. The message one gets after having such a car is that the purity of a sports car seems to have been lost on all of these super cars you test….the good old Miata is pretty much all that is left of the “drivers car” now. I wish every car company had an agreement to make sports cars of up to 300 hp, up to 2500 lbs total and with inputs being very focused on “feel” so manual gearing, hydraulic steering, etc. We’ve lost something. EV’s in this light until we get say hydrogen cells so they can be light again have just lost it. My 80yo family members have a new ev and they find the 0 to 60 “fun”….that is where we are now. They don’t like corners. Great video and messaging - I love the channel and have been a subscriber since you were a tiny channel. Keep it going.

[@hexgraphica]

I may be alone in this, but the overall shape of the 997 worked less than its predecessor and successor for me. It's got huge overhangs, and the 991 brought the relative size of them back to better proportionate generations (911, 993).

[@AntoniusTyas]

997's hands were tied. It shared the same chassis as 996, so whilst the face got better it carried the same proportion with 996. 997's design worked better as GT3 RS if I'm being honest. Not saying it's ugly (far from it), but it still has some chinks in its design armour. 991, however, I have no complains about that. I find it bemusing how so many people called 991 a bloated design. In wingless forms like 991R or just basic 991 Carrera T they look simple yet fantastic, almost unadorned even.

[@Corvolet5]

Drove a 991.1 GT3 before. Even at low speeds, they're anything but boring.

[@Spenny909]

I take the new 911 Turbo S around Silverstone in Dec, which I'm looking forward to. I am sure on a track it is not boring. Maybe it would be boring compared to a TDF, but more capable, which has its own excitement. On the options, I specified a Panamera Turbo S and just before Jay went into mentioning how he misses heated seats, I was thinking maybe I added too many options. Maybe a Turbo S should be without all the driving aids, heated, cooling, and massage seats, etc.? Save the money and option the race specific stuff like the sports aero pack.

[@londonman8688]

the new buyer must love this review

[@benc911]

Hi mate, Met you on friday at the motorist, We was the group called the Scoobaru's, hope you had a good night ! gutted about not winning the bugeye gearbox shaft lol

[@moootaable]

I had the privilege of driving one of theise many years ago and was blown away, But then again I had nothing of high performance to compare it too unless a Mercedes sprinter counts lol

[@ricsu3462]

Such a great video. The turbos are such great value and I considered them many times in the past, but always went with other models right before actually putting my money down (gt3, gt3rs, 718 gts 4.0, spyders, 991.2 c2s, c4s, 991.1 c2s, gts…) I don’t think it looks very good and sounds atrocious, speed is irrelevant for any street car above 400hp there’s just nowhere to take it without risking tickets…

[@alb3096]

Thanks gif you never had to try a nightmare Lotus Evora 400 or 420 that I owned a few years ago!

[@thewaywardgrape3838]

The 911 will always be an Engineering masterpiece. If you're above the age of 18 and appreciate more than just 'numbers', you'll understand why a 500WHP Porsche vs 500WHP Golf GTI/R aren't comparable. Porsche make the greatest, most reliable, most practicle cars on planet. Nothing comes close.

[@stevefowler2112]

The 997 Turbo with a few light mods produces 530 to 550 HP and with the 6 speed manual is the near perfect car. i've driven several Turbo and Turbo S 991 and 992 cars...they are blistering fast but come off to me as a bit numbing.

[@faizahmadali]

First off, thanks for doing these reviews Jay. This was a particularly interesting one because I own this car in an agate grey colour and dual tone black/red interior. I do agree with your assessment the car is boring..or perhaps…not exciting..unless driven at 8/10ths. The steering is average not great. The sound on cruising is poor. On acceleration good. But of my complaints…ride is not one of them. Overall I enjoy owning the car and happy it is sitting in the garage. But the day I sell it. I won’t look back in fondness. I think that is the dual nature of this car. Looks wise I prefer it to the 992

[@iLLGT2]

Depending on what you have owned car wise and what’s in the garage currently, a turbo/s yes can be boring, let me explain As a gt2 owner of almost 20 years it set the bar high for turbo cars for myself I also have found later in my car journey that N.A. cars are just so much more thrilling/satisfying especially if you love Motorsports I also have a 991.2 manual gt3 with straight pipe and huracan evo spyder rwd/sto and those engines just sing and have so much texture, thru the wheels and revs Lambo dct bangs gears in corsa and both have intake noise/throttle body clacks etc So you hop in a turbo s yes while torque and power can be “fun” there’s just not much soul in the car otherwise… gearbox is fast but lifeless , the rev range just doesn’t inspire, leaves a lot to be desired… I actually find my g80 m3 comp x drive way more thrilling than my old turbo s

[@zutt3]

Would love to hear your review of a 991.2 Turbo S.

[@SteveC-Shaman]

Me too. I'm a world away from James or I'd let him try mine. It has a DSC as well, a Kline exhaust and a ByDesign 93 octane tune. Stock turbos, etc. and makes 660tq/690hp as my daily driver and occassional track car. I do find it hard to use all the power but I use the brakes and turn HARD even on the street, no tickets for doing that (except when I'm 50+ over the limit).

[@hpman911]

@@SteveC-Shaman I think to be properly subjective the 991.2 needs to be stock or you risk opening up another can of worms!

[@SteveC-Shaman]

I really think you need to try a 991.2 with a proper suspension controller (even the stock one) rather than the DSC. Additionally, if it's a first generation DSC controller, they just don't work properly and DSCSport didn't provide any information or any pathway to updating them to the revised board. The best file for them is the "GT3 Touring" and that still makes the car feel like it's not nailed down so well. The newer DSC boards are better but my faith in them was shaken by how mine feels. I keep thinking I should just put the stock controller back in mine and go back to the slightly stiffer suspension that at least makes the car feel controlled. As for boring, if you are bored in the cars then it's on you. I brake deep into corners and slow down for nothing. You don't have to use all the power (and it's hard to as you know) to enjoy this car, it also turns and brakes very well. This thing is omnipotent (apt. Chris Harris) on twisty back roads and for passing everything that is in your way on any trip. I've passed an excavator on a float pulled by a transport and had to hit the brakes at his door, or accept the fact that exceeding the speed limit by more than double is an indictable offense in Ontario, Canada. It takes no prisoners and is as reliable as a brick. Oddly, my car was ordered without heated/ventilated seats - in the 991.2 they were standard on the Turbo S, so whoever spec'd my car deleted them. For weight, maybe?

[@fullwerkes]

The DSC just needed to have the ride height value zero'd. Once I done that it was perfect, and we unfortunately couldn't match our diaries to get out in it again before it was sold. Just one of those things.

[@SteveC-Shaman]

@@fullwerkes I did that as well, but while it did improve things, the car still is not very controlled over rough roads. It's "softer" but that isn't necessarily better. Again, I have a v1 DSC board and I'm irked that they abandoned me.

[@johnbaetke4556]

993 Turbo S was the best ever.

[@khusyairi]

I've always imagined, that if im more well off (currently the only porsche i'd be able to afford is a porsch keychain), i'll be looking into one of these. I think they are an exceptional value for money, n they're right into my preferred choice of a more sleeper kinda car.

[@ibana8449]

Another term I've heard "The thinking man's (or woman's) supercar"

[@chriswalker8378]

You are lucky ,you get to try / test some cracking cars

[@jrgenminichen3815]

JayEmm, almost any “man in a shack” can improve on Porsches. Porsche optimize for profits and the buyer (i.e. a middle+ aged man), and are constrained by so many regulations. Once you’re into tuning (including the chassis), it’s almost disappointing how much performance Porsche leaves on the table for enthusiasts. And the DSC is miles better than the “active” suspension controller Porsche delivers imho. Cheers :)

[@SteveC-Shaman]

I disagree. If you got one of the first generation DSC units like mine, you'll be disappointed. They abandoned those customers, no upgrade path for them except full-price replacement.

[@milestaylor7096]

The turboS is the grown-ups 911. Like a McLaren the drama is the lack of drama. Much better than over-hard suspensions, fake air vents, and the rest of the juvenilia.

[@noobymcnoobs]

Just got to the end of the video, you would rather have a Nissan!!!!! I may have to unfriend you!

[@Seiyomedia]

From the jealous perspective of someone who can’t afford either, I do prefer the 911/st or a GT3 touring

[@hpman911]

@@Seiyomedia both are virtually impossible to actually buy in the UK market unfortunately unless you want to pay a massive premium in the used car market.

[@markjones8013]

Great car, excellent review. You need to blip the throttle before you boot it, thats with most turbo cars TBH

[@richboy900]

I'd actually like the turbo lag, gives it more character. More exciting in a way, would feel old school like an F40 or 962

[@JordieMotive97]

I don't think they're boring, I just think they sound trash. Hoover like. It's only a good sound track away from being an absolute dream car in my opinion

[@romerosneck]

I think they mean 'won't kill you at 60mph'

[@mich5528]

It surely is not boring but it is a lot heavier and no NA exhaust sounds 😢 Better as a daily but not as a weekend car!

[@mattabell3657]

I went from a 997 to a 992 C2S. It was a mistake. The NA flat 6 in the 997 had so much more character to it. The turbo 3.0 in the 992 was comparatively boring. I only had the 992 a few months before I sold it for a Corvette Z06. The C8 is a much better car than the latest Carrera S.

[@seanlee8818]

I suspect that the suspension controller affected this car. Come to Vancouver, BC and try a standard car (as well as a few other interesting cars you don't get in the UK).

[@MightyN800]

I noticed some here offering their cars tuned. Stock cars only, please Jay.

[@niall3973]

It's a nice car, but I never liked the exhaust design. Weirdly square shaped. Preferred the 997 design which I had until earlier this year. Sport mode in the 997 Turbo made a big difference to how thrilling the car was. So perhaps the turbo lag was in part due to this.

[@Joolz1982]

Believe besides hearing Porsche servicing can be a bit on the pricey side. I hear sometimes they are too perfect making them as you say “boring”. I think if it was RWD model it would help it be more exciting.

[@hpman911]

You obviously haven’t serviced a Ferrari, AM or McLaren !!!

[@joeparker4355]

Thanks for another brilliant review. I have a gen 2 r8 v10 plus atm and have been looking at a 991.2 turbo s or even a 992 turbo s, what are your thoughts on this? Better to stay with the r8?

[@HiddenWen]

Own a 992 Turbo S. It's not boring at all. If you're comparing it to a Lambo/Ferrari...then yeah. But it's not the same kind of car.

[@protectandswerve]

You need to drive a .2 version then. My 991.2TTS is magical and only mods are a catless exhaust and a stg. 2 93 tune... Runs high 9 sec. 1/4 miles and a blast in the mountains.

[@kwebmail2007]

Hey I know you from rennlist! lol 👍

[@hpman911]

@@protectandswerve I think the 991.2 needs to be stock or you risk opening up another can of worms!