Getting ready to purchase a new toy, and while I don't know jack squat about Porsche, the 911 has long been a car I've wanted. But, I have some specific goals I'm wanting to achieve, so not sure if the Porsche will be the right platform for me or not.

I've found a 2004 911 Carrera, with 50k miles, for $25k. My question is, can you turbo these cars? Yes, I know that Porsche offers turbo models, but from what I've seen, they are all beyond my budget (although, I'll be the first to admit, my searches may be inconclusive due to the fact that I don't understand all of the numerical denotations, 911, 996, 997, etc.). I would like to be in the car and build, for <$50k. And while it would be nice to make as much power as possible, I would be happy with 500+whp.

So could somebody with some knowledge of this area give me some feedback? Am I dreaming here, and should just stick with a Corvette, or is this possible?

 

The 2004 911, also known as a 996, was also offered in a Turbo version. The Turbos were 2001-2004, and there are many fine examples that can be found for <$50K. Do a little more homework, you'll be surprised what you find.

 

Thank you!

 

Love the question! But I wouldn't do it. Buy a turbo, it's just going to work better than anything you can do aftermarket. The 996 turbos values are flat so it might be a great time to pick one up - and that can definitely be done for under $50k...
The 997 turbo (next model) is going for close to those numbers for a high mileage unit. Check our ebay or Hemings.
Can also go old school and get a 930 in that price range.

 

Ditto the earlier advice. Unless you think you are a better engineer than the guys in Stuttgart, just buy a real turbo. It will be better, faster, last longer and be more reliable. And there are more upgrades to the turbo model than just the engine.

Also, spend some time reading about the 996 on Rennlist. You'll learn a lot.

 

I wouldn't waste the money trying to add a turbo to a NA 996. Note that the 996 Turbo is a completely different engine and is based on the old bullet proof Metzger design. They did not just add turbos to the 996 engine. Finally, the 996 engine has some very well documented issues with the IMS bearing that can be addressed but its not cheap. Best buy out there is a 996 Turbo.