997.1 - 3.6 v 3.8?

[mattman]

Currently looking at a range of cars to replace my current lease and am interested in the 997.1

Reading up on known issues but still unclear whether the 3.8 from 2005+ is as much of a risk as a 3.6?

If a car has around 60-75k on it already, does this lessen the risk of engine failure or is it just as likely to happen compared to a low mileage

My budget sees me at the last of the 996's or a 997.1 - don't have the budget for a 997.2.

Sorry if this has been covered before but couldn't find anything recent in the PH search

Thanks
Matt

Edited by mattman on Sunday 11th March 20:01

[RiccardoG]

What do you mean by "engine failure"? I guess you mean the failure from IMS bearings? If so, roughly post mid-06 1 3.8 cars get a stronger (dual row) bearing that significantly reduces the IMS risk. There is a specific engine number from which this is installed, search on Google / Rennlist. Not sure, but I don't think the 3.6 got this - although I stand to be corrected.

If instead you are thinking of bore scoring, then "they all do that, Sir", apparently. 3.8 supposed to be worse off, Tiptronics also more affected. Dunno myself, I don't entirely dispute it, but also don't think they all will do so before its anyways time for an engine rebuild. Engine rebuilds are common on many older Porsche.

[c4sman]

anonymous said:

[redacted]

Off topic again but 3.6 on 18s that I had as a loaner once was a sweeter drive than my 997.1S I had at the time, and I don't know why. Revvy engine, more compliant, who knows!?

[Dr S]

The 997.1 non-S was widely considere by journos the pick of the range - for the reasons you mention. I had a 7.1 S at the time and loved it - did not drive a non-S though

[jonny996]

Was there any major engine changes between late 996 & early 997? Only reason I ask is when I was looking my indy told me to stay away from early 997 & get a good 996 instead.

[brownspeed]

Fully agree with CMooses first comments w.r.t. proportional representation.

for most mortals in most situations; I doubt if anyone can tell difference between the 3.8 and 3.6.
I bought a 3.8 as it came up at the right spec , the right time and the right price. (it also had a brand new Hartech in it which swayed me) if it was a 3.6 i'd still have bought it.
the reality is- buy the one that's right for you. drive a few, kick some tyres and get a feel for the market