2006 Porsche 911 Carrera (997) Cabriolet

Highlights 

• Accessible and usable convertible 911

• Excellent service history mostly from main dealers and specialists

• 321bhp, 3.6-litre flat-six engine

• Very good condition overall

• Well-maintained

• Great fun to drive

• Long, advisory-free MOT

Overview

The 997 remains one of the easiest and arguably best ways into modern classic 911 ownership. Striking the perfect balance between the fully analogue earlier cars and the more modern, tech-laden later models, the sixth-generation of Porsche's ever-popular paradigm of performance is an alluring prospect for those looking to dip their toes in the proverbial Porsche pool.

Beginning life in 2004 and showcasing a return to form, at least in terms of design, the 997 enjoyed just shy of a decade of production before giving way to the 991. Featuring a choice of differently displaced engines over that time, the 997 seamlessly combines pin sharp handling and eager performance with just the right amount of comfort and practicality without feeling too hefty, making it a solid choice for those hankering after an eminently usable 911.

Available in the usual selection of two-door iterations it's perhaps the convertible that makes the most sense. Leading the design and development charge this time around, the cabrio version of Porsche's venerable sportster has similar performance credentials on paper as its roofed brethren so no real sacrifice is made should you wish to get the top down when the weather permits. And even if it doesn't, there's a factory hard top option for harsher climes, making the convertible 997 a truly versatile beast.

This particular 3.6-litre Porsche 911 997 is one such roofless example and presents well overall in a handsome colour combination of ceramic coated Cobalt Blue over grey leather interior. Wholly original throughout, aside from the welcome addition of a Porsche sports exhaust (fitted by an authorised dealer) and complete with main dealer and marque specialist service history, as well as a recent advisory-free MOT, the car has clearly been well-maintained and represents a fine example of Porsche's defining sports car.

History and documentation

• 2006 model year

• Original book pack and wallet

• V5C present and correct

• First registered 10 Jan 2006

• In current ownership since 12 Mar 2025

• Two keys

• Excellent service history with original service book showing mostly main dealer and specialist inspections at the following intervals: delivery stamp at 15 miles (2006 – main dealer), minor+brake fluid at 15,141 miles (2008 – main dealer), minor+spark plugs+drive belt check+brake fluid at 25,868 miles (2009 – main dealer), minor at 38,330 miles (2011 – main dealer), minor+brake fluid at 47,339 miles (2012 – main dealer), major+spark plugs+drive belt check+brake fluid at 55,151 miles (2014), minor at 59,081 miles (2016 – specialist), brake fluid at 59,847 miles (2016 – specialist), minor at 70,104 miles (2019), major+brake fluid at 72,109 miles (2020 – specialist), service+brake fluid at 80,426 miles (2022 – specialist)

• 2 and 4 year main dealer condition reports

• 2009, 2014, 2016 airbag system checks

• Some main dealer and specialist invoices for servicing, maintenance and parts including the latest service in Nov 2024

• Various old MOT certificates

• HPI clear

• ULEZ compliant

• Advisory-free MOT until 22 Sep 2026

• 90,649 indicated miles

Interior

• Overall the interior is in very good condition with grey leather throughout

• Grey stitching

• Slight wear and tear commensurate with age and mileage

• No visible signs of damage

• Some light marks to the door cards and kick plates

• Dashboard presents well

• Carpets look to be in great condition

• Porsche branded floor mats

• Passenger cupholders remain intact

• Standard Porsche PCM and Bluetooth

• No electrical issues or dashboard warning lights although the driver's side window switches are reportedly a little temperamental

• Passenger seat height adjuster is reportedly non-functional

• Some visible mould to the inside of the convertible fabric hood

• The area under the bonnet is clean and tidy and comes complete with warning triangle and bagged wind deflector 

Exterior

• There are a few slight age related marks to the bodywork but overall it’s in good condition

• Paintwork presents well

• Vendor informs us that the paintwork has been ceramic sealed for enhanced protection

• No evidence of any visible corrosion but there is some slight cracking to the nearside rear three quarter panel

• No major dents or dings to speak of

• Front bumper paint looks to be not quite colour-matched to the rest of the body

• Some minor scuffing to the front splitter

• The convertible roof appears to fit well and carries no evident damage

• No visible damage to any of the glasswork

• The 19” alloy wheels are in great shape and look to be free from any major kerb marks

• Vendor reports the Nankang Noble Sport NS-20 tyres are in very good condition

• Underneath looks clean and solid 

Mechanical

• 321bhp, 3.6-litre flat-six engine

• Engine bay presents honestly if a little dirty 

• Five-speed automatic gearbox

• Rear-wheel drive

• 0-60mph in 4.8s

• 177mph top speed

• Porsche sports exhaust

• No mechanical issues to report

• The vendor informs us that the car sounds great, starts and stops well, is always garaged and the battery is currently on trickle charge for the winter

Summary

Could the 997 be the perfect modern classic 911 then? It's possible. It certainly ticks a lot of boxes and this car, with its commendable service record, might be a contender for many a fan of the marque. It's a perfectly usable and surprisingly practical convertible modern classic sports car that can deliver the goods when pushed but also cruise leisurely with the sun out and the roof down.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Redhill, Surrey.