The Good
The 2006 Porsche 911 offers exhilarating performance and relatively good reliability for a sports car. Its iconic design and surprisingly comfortable ride make it suitable for daily driving. While not the most efficient, it delivers reasonable fuel economy for its performance. This appeals to both the emotional desire for a thrilling driving experience and the practical need for a usable, dependable vehicle.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2006 Porsche 911 include potential IMS bearing failure in non-Turbo models, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Oil leaks, particularly from the rear main seal, are also common. Some owners have reported issues with the coolant pipes. Pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Porsche mechanic is crucial.
2006 Porsche 911: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.6L Flat-6 (Carrera): 325 horsepower
- 3.8L Flat-6 (Carrera S): 355 horsepower
- 3.6L Turbo Flat-6 (Turbo): 480 horsepower
- 3.6L Naturally Aspirated Flat-6 (GT3): 415 horsepower
- Horsepower:
- Carrera: 325 hp
- Carrera S: 355 hp
- Turbo: 480 hp
- GT3: 415 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- Carrera (Manual): 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- Carrera S (Manual): 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- Turbo (Manual): 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- Carrera: ~5.0 seconds
- Carrera S: ~4.6 seconds
- Turbo: ~3.7 seconds
- GT3: ~4.1 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable; the Porsche 911 is not designed for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Carrera: Leather seats, automatic climate control, power windows and locks, premium sound system, alloy wheels.
- Carrera S: Upgraded brakes, sport suspension, larger wheels, more powerful engine, Bi-Xenon headlamps.
- Turbo: All-wheel drive, turbocharger, adaptive suspension management (PASM), leather interior, upgraded audio system.
- GT3: Track-focused suspension, lightweight components, aerodynamic body kit, sport seats, minimal sound deadening.
2006 Porsche 911 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Passenger Sedan |
| Category | Coupe |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | STUTTGART-ZUFFENHAUSEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.6 6 |
| 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
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Porsche 911 Have?
Coolant leaks are also common, stemming from the coolant pipes. These pipes can corrode over time, leading to leaks. The plastic coolant expansion tank is another weak point prone to cracking. Some owners report issues with the air conditioning system, including compressor failure and refrigerant leaks. Electrical problems, while less frequent, can occur with the window regulators and central locking system.
While the 2006 model year hasn't had a high number of recalls compared to other vehicles, it's essential to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. Long-term reliability depends heavily on maintenance. Regular oil changes, proper cooling system maintenance, and addressing issues promptly are crucial to mitigating these potential problems.
How long will the 2006 Porsche 911 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included front and side airbags. Optional safety features included parking assist. The NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) crash-test ratings for the 2006 Porsche 911 are not comprehensive. NHTSA conducted frontal crash tests on the coupe model, but side-impact tests were not performed. IIHS did not evaluate the 2006 911. Modern Porsche models come with driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control; however, these technologies were not available on the 2006 model. The focus was primarily on the driving experience, and safety was addressed through robust engineering and essential safety features. The car's handling capabilities and strong brakes also contribute to its safety profile. While not cutting-edge by today's standards, the 2006 911 offered a reasonable level of safety and technology for its era.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2006 Porsche 911 Prices and Market Value
2006 Porsche 911 Cost of Ownership
2006 Porsche 911 Fuel Efficiency
2006 Porsche 911 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2006 Porsche 911 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Porsche 911 Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?
In terms of reliability, the Corvette generally outperforms the 911, but the 911 holds an edge over the BMW and Aston Martin. Feature-wise, the competitors are similar, although the 911 offers a more driver-focused experience. Price-wise, the Corvette is typically the most affordable, while the Aston Martin is the most expensive. Depending on priorities, alternatives could include a newer, slightly used Porsche Cayman for better reliability or a pre-owned Audi R8 for a similar exotic feel with potentially lower running costs than the Aston Martin. However, the 911 remains a strong choice for those seeking a balanced sports car with iconic status.
Ranks #1917 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1917 | 2006 Porsche 911 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Porsche 911 a Good Passenger Sedan?
FAST4 on February 19, 2021
Porsche owner since 1970. 2006 997 4 cab todayOwner of Porsche's since my first purchase new in 1970. 12 registered to me and another 20 or so I bought, drove on dealer plate when I was in used car business.M y 2006 997.1 Carrera 4 Cab with 30k on the odometer is one of the most dialed in cars I have driven. PASM along with the AWD helps keep this one glued to the road. The 4 is Wider than a 2 the S is not necessary. All season road runner. Top down warm weather, AWD for the rest. 😎
Fez on November 5, 2020
Porsche. There is no Substitute.I am the proud owner of a 2006 Porsche 911 Carrera S Coupe! The 997 is AWESOME. It has excellent brakes, engine, suspension, interior design, and yes …that sexy body style with an attitude! I love driving the 997; it's superb in response, handling, and breaking. I feel like a combat fighter pilot on a mission. Talk about stress therapy, drive a 997, and feel invigorated every time you take the perfect apex. Driving the 997 will make you a believer of the slogan, “Porsche, there is no substitute."
FMoses on June 17, 2020
Very good vehicleIt handles like nothing else on the road! If you want a sports car then there’s nothing like it anywhere on the road! Porsche! There is no substitute!
JamesInOC on March 5, 2020
Drives Like A RacecarI bought my 2006 Porsche 911 coupe in October of 2019 so I haven't had it all that long, but so far the car is a dream to own and drive. It's really fast and the handling is at another level above any other sports car I've owned (several BMWs and a Jaguar). The sound of the flat 6 engine is beyond compare. Just starting it in the morning is a thrill. Actually just seeing it sitting in the garage is a thrill! I highly recommend getting a manual transmission if you can, since this greatly increases the driver engagement with the car. The only exception would be for commuting, but I would't recommend a 911 for commuting. The gas mileage is terrible (16 MPG) and it's not really built for commuting. It's more built for back roads and empty highways. Porsche is famous for providing many different options on their cars. You can get the base 911 with rear drive or the 4 with four wheel drive. I have the base with rear wheel drive which is a bit simpler, lighter and arguably more fun than the all wheel drive, but the all wheel drive would be great for snow or track. The S variant adds more horsepower and better handling but for me the base model is more than adequate on both counts. When buying any used Porsche 911 it's very important to have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified Porsche mechanic before buying it because there are some potential nasty surprises awaiting unwary buyers. Some 911s engines have bore scoring could end up requiring a complete rebuild or replacement of the engine which will cost over $20,000. So look before you leap. You don't want to spend a lot of money buying someone else's headache. I've always dreamed of owning a Porsche 911 but it was never quite the right time to buy one until recently. I'm really glad I went ahead and bought it. I told my wife I need to buy a 911 while I can still get in and out of it, and she said great, go for it.
John on February 8, 2020
The best car I have ever ownedThere is nothing quite like a Porsche 911. It is not a good daily driver but the perfect sports car. It could use just a bit more power
StevesCarrera on January 22, 2020
Great Porsche!Just an amazing car and manufacturer. I now understand what its like being part of the Porsche family. The performance, styling, and ride of a 911 is far above everything else I have ever driven.
Sethddad on May 30, 2019
Just “Fun†2006 Carrera S CabWhat other car can you own that you actually look forward to driving it every time you get begin the wheel. Great power and hands down best handling car. Still can’t believe it’s almost 14 years old.
Pski694 on April 4, 2019
Great SportscarI am 6'4" and fit in this car like no other sportscar. I have owned Vette's and an Aston Martin. This car was superior in every way. The only maintinance was oil changes and other fluid changes. Handled great in all weather being rear engined. I will buy another.
Wild Goose on January 3, 2019
A blast to drive, but has been a money pit.Waited for years for my first Porsche and purchased mine in February '18 to join my (also 2006) Honda S2000 in my garage. Car had only 12,000 miles (I'm the second owner) and now (11 months later) coming up on about 22,000. Have spent about $7000 on repairs so far, so needless to say I'm not too impressed. Especially when compared to my S2000 which now has about 140,000 miles and on which I've spent about $4000 over the 10 years I've owned it. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE driving the 911! It's just that when people ask me which one I like better, it's hard not to factor in extreme service costs when I answer. Both cars are fantastic performers.
Porsche Guy on November 30, 2018
Ultimate fun carBest sports car I have owned, fantastic performance, and road handling. It is a real head turner for men and women of all ages. The Bose sound system is the best car radio ever.
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