The Last Porsche 911 Turbo To Feature A Manual Transmission

The last Porsche 911 Turbo that was truly driver-centric

The 997-generation Porsche 911 succeeded the controversial 996 and opted for a more classic design, as it brought back the round headlights. The Porsche 911 Turbo offers two for the price of one. On one side, you get supercar-rivalling performance while on the other, you get a refined driving experience, suitable for daily use.

More importantly, the 997 is the last Turbo you could get with a six-speed manual. In true tradition, 911 Turbo models come out slightly later than the Carrera models, in this case, a year after the 997’s initial debut. In 2009, the 997.2 update came out and with it a few things changed. First, the five-speed Tiptronic automatic was replaced by a quick-shifting PDK transmission, which eventually became the only option for the Turbo S model on subsequent generations. You could still get the 997 Turbo with a six-speed manual while the PDK was optional. After the 997 generation, all Turbo and Turbo S models were available, exclusively, with Porsche’s dual-clutch (Porsche Doppel Kuplung) automatic. The 997 Turbo featured slightly longer gearing compared to 997 Carrera models equipped with a manual, although they shared the same, 3.44:1 final-drive ratio.

The last Porsche 911 generation to feature the Mezger engine

The 997 brought many changes, not all of which were pleasant. While Porsche’s boxer engine has had many epic iterations over the years, none stand out as much as the iconic Mezger engines. The last Mezger engine was fitted in a 997 Porsche, although this was not turbocharged. Nevertheless, 997.1 Turbo models came with the M97.70 flat-six engine, which was also a Mezger-design unit. It was a revised variant of the 996 Turbo’s M96.70.

The most prominent difference was the twin-turbochargers, which featured variable geometry, that enabled a wide powerband – a Porsche 911 Turbo first. Like the 996 Turbo engine, the M97.70 unit was derived from the engine that powered the iconic Porsche 911 GT1 race car. Mezger engines are known for being more reliable and often, associated with Porsche’s motorsport prowess, which is why any Mezger-powered 911 is highly collectible. The 997.2 Turbo no longer featured a Mezger engine, instead opting for an all-new, MA1.70, direct-injected unit. Despite packing more performance than the early 997 Turbo/ Turbo S variants, the 997.2 Turbo/ Turbo S isn’t quite as popular as the last, Mezger-powered 911 Turbo.

The final evolution of the analog Porsche 911 Turbo

The Porsche 997 did many things right. Aside from being the last manual-equipped 911 Turbo and bringing back the classic headlight design, it has more going for it. The Mezger engine with its unique characteristics and what is known as “one of the best manual transmission feels” ever, is accompanied by an interior that’s, both, classic and modern. Another key feature was the beloved hydraulic steering. In 2011, Porsche introduced the 991 generation. It replaced the hydraulic system with electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), which 911 purists criticized for the lack of feedback, compared to the 997 steering feel.

Porsche 997 Turbo price

When it came out in 2007, the Porsche 911 (997) Turbo started at around $130,000. These 911 Turbo models are incredibly good at retaining value and more than 15 years later, Classic.com shows that the average value for 997.1 Turbo models is around $88,000. The Tiptronic-equipped cars are the most affordable. Manual conversions for the Porsche 997 Turbo aren’t common, but they are possible.

To no surprise, the 997.1 Turbo manual coupes are champions when it comes to retaining value, with an average price of over $101,000. Interestingly enough, the 997.2 Turbo manual coupes are the most expensive, and excellent examples can still be seen, hovering around $140,000.