I sold my 2004 996 3 years ago because I could no longer bear the road/tire noise. The noise level changed only slightly with change of tires. I yearn to experience driving a Porsche again. In a test drive a 2011 Boxster was quieter than a 2008 model as I got to 75 mph, the wind buffeting noise around my head was too much, drowning road noise. Would a 911 or a Cayman be quieter? And if sound proofing needs to be installed to reduce road noise (engine noise doesn't bother me) are there any good installers who specialize in this?

 

Tire noise is what we live with, no getting around it. Depending on type of road surface more or less. Around here cities and state have been using recycled tires in the road resurfacing and the silence is amazing. With a 911 or even a boxster ther isn't much area where one can add insulation. Love the car, put up with road noise.