A long time vette guy here that is new to the Porsche world and seriously considering a Cayman S or Carrera S. One thing that is confusing is the model number designations. I see the Carrera refered to as both a 911 and a 997. In the vette world would this be like the difference in a C5 or C6?

Excuse my ignorance but it's all new to me.

 

996 and 997 would be the equivalent of a C5 and C6. As in chassis codes referring to a model run.

I'm not sure exactly how 911 is used, but cars called the 911 Carerra span multiple generations of porsches.

 

The model is a 997. Guys that are stuck in the 80's and 90's refer to it as 911....lol

Aloha

Byron

 

911 = Carrera

 

911 Carrera is the name

996 and 997 are like C5 and C6

Viva la 80s.....

 

Having also come from the Corvette world, I understand your confusion. I was on the fence between a C6 ZO6 and a 997S, finally deciding on the Porsche. There are lots of differences, but it gets down to personal preference. I drive the car on track too, and my biggest concern was the handling differences. But, it turned out to be non-issue. Certainly there are differences, but it's just a matter of driving to each car's strengths. I can see myself owning other Vettes in the future, but I'm not at all disappointed in the 911. Have fun with the decision.

 

Corvette guy here too, you will love the porsche still having a c6 z06 i love my porsche all the same. Oh and about ur choice of cars if you have the funds get the carrera S, I was on the wall too about carrera or cayman and after driving both i went with the carrera, its nicer on the inside and its that signature car everyone knows. Just my opinion but there u go.

 

I also struggled with z06 vs Carrera, and was also considering a Boxster S or Cayman S. I ended up with the Carrera S and am extremely happy with my choice. The z06 is super fast, sure, but the C2S puts a grin on my face every time I drive it.

 

When you go to the Porsche website, hit the button that says "build your car" you have 4 body styles to choose from ~ Boxter, Cayman, 911 and Cayenne. The 911 model designation has been around since 1965 or so; rear engine, rear wheel drive. Back in the 60's the 911's had variable designations as well, 911 T (touring), 911 E (economy, VW 4 cyl), etc... as the years went on, so did the tradition of the "911". Of course other models came out such as the 911 turbo, or 930 designation. Then the body started to change a bit, 964, then the body changed again in the mid 90's to the 993. Bodystyle changed again in '99 referred to as the 996 model, then around 2005 another body design change, the 997.
Generally speaking, they are still a rear engine, rear wheel drive car (this varies) with the same basic design; Hence, '07 911 turbo is the lazy or easy way to say 2007 997 Turbo
I'm sure someone will do a quick google search and come up will all model designations for you in a moment, in the meantime, choose your color

 

CarreraS is your best bet! =]
I personally would even consider the Carrera4S and the cab variants.

 

There is quite a bit of definitive information offered via this link that may help as well.

http://www.answers.com/topic/porsche-911

 

Corvette owner here also.
I gave my Corvette C4 to my son a couple of years ago, but still have my 1966 Big Block roadster.
Recently purchased an 08 C4S with x51. Fantastic car. I really like the way it handles. However, it does not have the torque that I was use to with the vettes. However, I just keep the RPMs up and it runs great.
Take my word, you will not regret getting a Porsche!

 

forget the cayman or carrera and get the Cayenne S! the pepper handles better and you can haul 5 people!

 

Going from a vette to an SUV as a daily driver is painful. Cayenne or not.

 

hows it painful? i think u got it the other way around.