Porsche 911

vs

Porsche 911 (997)

Germany vs Germany — 1964 vs 2005

Porsche 911 (1964)
Porsche 911 (997) (2005)
Specifications
911 2.0 (Original)911 (997) GT3 RS
Horsepower130 hp450 hp
Torque128 lb-ft317 lb-ft
Engine Size1,991 cc3,797 cc
0-60 mph8.3 sec3.8 sec
Top Speed131 mph193 mph
¼ Mile16.0 sec12.0 sec
Weight2,381 lbs3,021 lbs
Wheelbase2,211 mm2,355 mm
Length4,163 mm4,460 mm
Units Produced81,1002,017
Original MSRP$6,500$132,800
Value (Excellent)$300,000$450,000
Collectibility9/109/10
Rarity5/108/10
The Verdict

The 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1964 Porsche 911 2.0 (Original) counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The Porsche 911 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1964 Porsche 911 2.0 (Original) with the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS reveals how Porsche refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 450 hp compared to 130 hp, a 320-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 uses a Flat-6 SOHC air-cooled displacing 1,991 cc, while the Porsche 911 (997) relies on a Flat-6 DOHC with 3,797 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS edges ahead at 3.8 seconds versus 8.3 seconds. The Porsche 911 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 640 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,017 units built, the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911's 81,100 examples. On the collector market, the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS commands a significant premium over the 1964 Porsche 911 2.0 (Original), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.