The Good
The 2002 Porsche 911 offers exhilarating performance and surprisingly good reliability for a sports car. Its comfortable interior makes it suitable for daily driving. The iconic design appeals to enthusiasts, while its relative affordability compared to newer models makes it a practical choice. The powerful engine and responsive handling ignite passion, whereas the build quality and respectable fuel economy offer pragmatic reassurance.
The Bad
The 2002 Porsche 911 (996) is susceptible to IMS bearing failure, a potentially catastrophic engine issue. Rear main seal leaks are also common. Early 996 models, including 2002, can experience issues with the coolant expansion tank and brittle plastic components in the cooling system. Check for oil leaks and a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is crucial.
2002 Porsche 911: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.6L Flat-6 (Carrera, Carrera 4): 320 hp
- 3.6L Twin-Turbo Flat-6 (Turbo): 415 hp
- Horsepower:
- Carrera/Carrera 4: 320 hp @ 6800 rpm
- Turbo: 415 hp @ 6000 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- Carrera/Carrera 4 (manual): 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- Carrera/Carrera 4 (Tiptronic): 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- Turbo (manual): 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- Turbo (Tiptronic): 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- Carrera/Carrera 4: ~5.0 seconds (manual), ~5.5 seconds (Tiptronic)
- Turbo: ~4.2 seconds (manual), ~4.5 seconds (Tiptronic)
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable. The Porsche 911 is not designed for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Carrera/Carrera 4: Leather seats, automatic climate control, power windows and locks, cruise control, AM/FM/CD stereo, alloy wheels. Carrera 4 adds all-wheel drive.
- Turbo: All features of the Carrera/Carrera 4, plus: upgraded brakes, stiffer suspension, unique body styling, leather sport seats, and bi-xenon headlights.
2002 Porsche 911 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2002 |
| Make | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Cabriolet |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | STUTTGART-ZUFFENHAUSEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.6 L 6-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2002 Porsche 911 Have?
Coolant leaks are another area of concern. The plastic coolant expansion tank is prone to cracking, and other plastic coolant lines can become brittle with age and heat cycles. Regular inspection and proactive replacement can prevent overheating. The Turbo model, while offering significantly more performance, can suffer from turbocharger issues as it ages, including leaks and failures.
There were some recalls for the 996 generation, but they varied depending on the specific market (US vs. Europe, etc.). Check the NHTSA website or Porsche's recall database with the VIN for any outstanding recalls. Long-term, the 996's reliability can be improved with diligent maintenance, but the IMS bearing remains a primary concern. Early model years (1997-2000) were thought to be more susceptible to IMS issues, but later years, including 2002, are still at risk.
How long will the 2002 Porsche 911 last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern cars. It had standard cruise control, but advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking were not available.
Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), driver and passenger airbags, and side airbags. Porsche Stability Management (PSM) was an option, enhancing stability and traction control. PSM utilizes sensors to monitor the car's direction, speed, yaw rate, and lateral acceleration. If the car starts to oversteer or understeer, PSM applies selective braking to individual wheels to help stabilize the car.
Crash test ratings from NHTSA or IIHS for the 2002 Porsche 911 are scarce. Safety standards at the time were different, and many high-end sports cars weren't subjected to the same testing as mainstream vehicles. The 996 generation was designed with a reinforced body structure to provide adequate protection in a collision. Option packages like the rear window wiper are available. Overall, while not as technologically advanced as modern cars, the 2002 911 offered essential safety and convenience features for its time.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2002 Porsche 911 Prices and Market Value
2002 Porsche 911 Cost of Ownership
2002 Porsche 911 Fuel Efficiency
2002 Porsche 911 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2002 Porsche 911 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2002 Porsche 911 Compare to Other Cabriolet?
In terms of reliability, the 911's IMS bearing issue gives rivals an edge. However, with proper maintenance, the 911 can be dependable. Feature-wise, the rivals offered comparable amenities, but the 911's driving experience set it apart. If reliability is a primary concern, the BMW M3 might be a better choice. If pure performance per dollar is the goal, the Corvette is appealing. However, for the combination of performance, brand cachet, and a relatively usable sports car, the 2002 Porsche 911 remains a strong contender. Alternatives within the Porsche family include a later 997 generation 911, which addressed some of the 996's weaknesses, though at a higher price point.
Ranks #212 Convertible
| 1 | 2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2015 Lexus IS | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2009 Honda S2000 | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF | (4.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 BMW 8 Series | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2021 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Audi S5 Sportback | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ferrari F8 Spider | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster | (4.0★) |
| 11 | 2021 Jeep Compass | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2019 Buick Cascada | (0.0★) |
| 212 | 2002 Porsche 911 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2002 Porsche 911 a Good Cabriolet?
Paycheck on October 11, 2024
I have had my '02 base 6 speed manual Carrera Coupe forI have had my '02 base 6 speed manual Carrera Coupe for about 5 years. It was a car I had checked out, but my wife bought for my 50th. I love the car. I do some "spirited drives" with a great group of folks early Sunday mornings (when the back roads are pretty empty). The car is just a blast to drive hard. I have never come close to finding its limits in terms of cornering. It can be driven quite sedately if you keep it under about 4,000 RPMs. Fine around town. Stop and go traffic is obviously a pain with any manual car, but the clutch is a little stiffer than, say, a Honda. Road trips are fine if you can fit, and it's a bit noisy on the highway from tire noise. I was interested in the 911 over a used Cayman (or Miata, etc.) because I can put my kids in the back (they are 4 and 7, and they LOVE pulling "g-forces" The main downside is this is a 22 year old car with a list of things that really need to be replaced. Not because they are broken, but just standard maintenance. I need a transmission rebuild to fix an occasional issue with 2nd gear. Rear main seal. Check the IMS bearing. Water pump. Then the suspension and engine mounts probably need to be gone over. All this is probably $12,000-$15,000. Bottom line, these 996 911s can be had for mid-20's, but it's still a Porsche. You don't get Honda-priced parts when you need to replace something.
Jdben on January 14, 2021
combination of Power and handling.rhe right car for cruising on the freeway, having fun on the mountain roads and along the coast Hwy. Oh, that powerful sound of the exhaust when I accelerate and on downshift. A lot bettter balance and handling than the other two 911s that I had.
Mercyhealth on October 11, 2020
This car is the base Carrera not a 4S in ad.This exceptional spec’ed 996 is near unique with few if any 996’s available with contrasted full leather stitching and contrasted leather steering wheel and dash. Full paint restoration has brought this near classic status auto to a show room shine. If you are in the market for a 996 look no further.
Remy on August 9, 2020
Great convertable carThis is a great car for pretty much anything. It will even dirve good in snow days. It will perform well with keeping it on 3rd gear on the curvie roads of western north carolina.
Him on Pink on June 11, 2020
Great car . I did expect a few issues and am takinGreat and fun , I am taking care of a few maintenance issues , which I expected with it being an 18 year old car . I am upgrading the shocks and struts and replacing a leaky water pump . Other than that no issues.
Cdogone on April 5, 2020
Best driving experience I’ve ever hadFinally found an older 1 owner Porsche that was well taken care of and I could afford. I look forward to the driving experience every day. The acceleration and handling are far better than most new cars. Hard to believe it’s almost 20 years old!
Yuri on February 12, 2020
So much fun driving carOne of the best fun driving sports car for very reasonable money.Highly recommended to anybody addicted to speed and fun.Lots of fun.Yeehh nice porsche vehicle
cerex on October 21, 2019
Porsche Turbo 911 The BestBest little pocket rocket on the planet. Well engineered amazing drive, handling and speed. Super car that defies its age... just get in and go anytime anywhere. This is the best car you will ever own.
Arch on October 16, 2019
A Lot of car for the moneyFun, wonderful ergonomics, power, a lot for the money. love Porsches. german reliability and quality. convertible great condition great seller as well. could get there quick drive it home
Ecochappy on May 4, 2019
Affordable PorscheThe 2002 Porsche 911, 996.2, is amazing value. These models were not loved by many enthusiasts but are incredible to drive and reliable sports cars. As time goes by, these will only be more appreciated. It’s an affordable 911. Be prepared for pricey maintenance.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma