911 Turbo

Make
Porsche
Segment
Coupe

The Porsche 911 last encountered a dramatic change in 1997. The introduction of the 996 generation caused quite a stir amongst the faithful for two main reasons: the retirement of the classic 911 body in favor of an all-new design, and the switch from an air-cooled to a water-cooled flat-six engine. Porsche took the heat with grace, confident it made the right decisions for the sake of the beloved sports car's long-term future.

Over the years, the utter hatred some had for the 996 has died down. Others have since discovered a bargain-priced 911. For example, 993 models, the final use of that classic body, continue to increase in value and typically can't be had for much less than $50,000.

A 996, however, can be had for below $30,000. This price difference is even greater for the Turbo models. If you want a 993 Turbo, be prepared to spend upwards of around $100,000. The 996 Turbo? Less than $50,000 in many instances. There's no way to predict whether this massive price difference will last forever, but what's certain is that 996 Turbos are an absolute steal right now.

The 996 Turbo debuted at the 1999 Frankfurt Motor Show and went on sale as a 2000 model. Power comes from a water-cooled twin-turbo and intercooled 3.6-liter flat-six rated at 414 horsepower and 415 of torque. Its all-wheel drive system was equipped with either a six-speed manual or five-speed Tiptronic transmission.

Compared to the standard 996 Carrera, the Turbo features a wider stance, bi-xenon headlights, and a fixed rear wing. US models came with an adjustable rear spoiler that automatically rises once the car reaches 76 mph and lowers again at 36 mph.

Additional styling differences include three radiators up front and revised bodywork to fit the 18-inch wheels. Porsche claimed a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph. Those figures are still quite impressive today, although the just-revealed 992 Porsche 911 Turbo sprints to 60 in just 2.7 seconds and top speed is 198 mph. In 20 years, Porsche managed to drop the 911 Turbo's 0-60 time by 1.5 seconds. Impressive.

Those who want solid Porsche performance on a budget should look no further than a used 996 Turbo, such as this one for sale at Birmingham Broker in Birmingham, Alabama. This Polar Silver over a Metropolitan Blue leather interior example has only 46,405 miles on it despite having had seven owners. It has a six-speed along with brakes and rotors from the 996 GT3 and an upgraded Bilstein coilover suspension installed by its previous owner.

The asking price? Just $47,959. Like most older 911s, the 996 values are bound to increase eventually. Get one for a relatively affordable price while you can.