2001 Porsche 911 – Continued Evolution of the 996

← 2000 Porsche 911 | 996 Porsche 911 Overview | 2002 Porsche 911 →

Overview

The 2001 Porsche 911 continued refining the 996 generation with incremental improvements to reliability, interior materials, and performance. Still featuring the 3.4L engine, the 2001 model remained a popular choice among driving enthusiasts.

Available Models

For 2001, Porsche offered the following 911 variants:

• 911 Carrera: The standard rear-wheel-drive model featuring the 3.4L engine.
• 911 Carrera 4: The all-wheel-drive version offering enhanced stability and grip.
• 911 Carrera Cabriolet: The convertible variant of the Carrera.
• 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet: The all-wheel-drive convertible, blending performance and open-air driving.
• 911 Turbo: The twin-turbocharged high-performance model producing 415 HP.
• 911 GT3: The track-focused performance model featuring a naturally aspirated 3.6L engine.

Development & History

By 2001, Porsche had fine-tuned the 996 generation, responding to early criticism regarding interior materials and mechanical concerns. The model saw reliability improvements, and minor updates continued to enhance the driving experience.

Engine & Performance

The 2001 Porsche 911 retained the same engine lineup but refined its driving dynamics:

• 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 2001 Porsche 911 retained the refreshed design introduced in 1999, with continued improvements in quality and materials.

• 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: Turbo introduction, refined interior materials, enhanced aerodynamics

Production & Market Value

The 2001 Porsche 911 remains a desirable option in the used market, benefiting from continued refinements in reliability and performance. Well-maintained models, particularly the Turbo and GT3, have seen steady appreciation.

FAQs

What makes the 2001 Porsche 911 different from earlier models?

It retained the 3.4L engine but featured interior refinements and marked the first full production year of the 996 Turbo.

What are common reliability issues with the 2001 Porsche 911?

IMS bearing issues persisted in Carrera models, while Turbo and GT3 models used the more robust Mezger engine.

Is the 2001 Porsche 911 a good investment?

Yes, particularly for the Turbo and GT3 models, which have been increasing in value due to their performance and reliability.