2000 Porsche 911 – Refining the Water-Cooled Formula

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Overview

The 2000 Porsche 911 continued the evolution of the 996 generation, refining its performance and interior features. Produced as part of the first water-cooled 911 series, the 2000 model year carried over the improvements made since the initial 1999 release.

Available Models

For 2000, Porsche offered the following 911 variants:

• 911 Carrera: A rear-wheel-drive model with a 3.4L flat-six engine.
• 911 Carrera 4: The all-wheel-drive variant offering enhanced stability.
• 911 Carrera Cabriolet: A convertible version of the Carrera, offering open-air driving.
• 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet: The all-wheel-drive Cabriolet, combining performance and versatility.
• 911 Turbo: A high-performance twin-turbocharged model with all-wheel drive and 415 HP.
• 911 GT3: A track-focused, naturally aspirated performance model with 360 HP.

Development & History

By 2000, the 996-generation 911 had begun to settle into its role as the new face of Porsche's flagship sports car. Porsche addressed early criticisms by refining interior materials and ensuring continued mechanical reliability.

Engine & Performance

The 2000 Porsche 911 retained the same powertrains as the previous year, with the introduction of the Turbo model adding significant performance improvements:

• Engine: 3.4L Flat-6 (Carrera models), 3.6L Twin-Turbo Flat-6 (Turbo), 3.6L Naturally Aspirated Flat-6 (GT3)
• Horsepower: 296 HP (Carrera), 415 HP (Turbo), 360 HP (GT3)
• Fuel System: Bosch Motronic Fuel Injection
• Transmission: 6-speed manual, 5-speed Tiptronic automatic (Carrera & Turbo models only)
• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (Carrera, GT3), All-Wheel Drive (Carrera 4, Turbo)
• 0-60 mph: ~5.0 seconds (Carrera), ~4.0 seconds (Turbo), ~4.3 seconds (GT3)
• Top Speed: 174 mph (Carrera), 189 mph (Turbo), 190 mph (GT3)

Design & Features

The 2000 Porsche 911 continued with the design introduced in 1999, featuring the controversial "fried egg" headlights, a modernized interior, and improved aerodynamics.

• Body Style: Coupe, Cabriolet
• Seating Capacity: 4 (Carrera, Turbo), 2 (GT3)
• Weight: ~2,910 lbs (Carrera), ~3,400 lbs (Turbo), ~3,020 lbs (GT3)
• Chassis Code: 996
• Wheelbase: 92.5 inches
• Notable Features: First 996 Turbo model, introduction of GT3, modernized interior layout

Production & Market Value

As an early 996 model, the 2000 Porsche 911 remains an accessible entry point into 911 ownership. The Turbo and GT3 models, in particular, have become highly desirable for their performance and collectibility. Prices remain relatively affordable for Carrera models, while Turbo and GT3 values are steadily increasing.

FAQs

What makes the 2000 Porsche 911 different from previous years?

It refined the 996 platform with subtle interior and quality improvements while introducing the Turbo and GT3 models.

What are the most common issues with the 2000 Porsche 911?

IMS bearing failure and RMS oil leaks remain the most discussed reliability concerns, though the Turbo and GT3 models use the more reliable Mezger engine.

Is the 2000 Porsche 911 a good investment?

Yes, Turbo and GT3 models have seen significant appreciation, while Carrera models are increasing in value, particularly with IMS upgrades.