Is the base 2017 911 Carrera enough or do I need the Carrera S?

Question

Accepted Answer

The **base 2017 911 Carrera is absolutely enough** for most owners - and here's why:

## The Real-World Difference

| Spec | Carrera | Carrera S |
|------|---------|-----------|
| Power | 370 hp / 331 lb-ft | 420 hp / 368 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | ~4.0-4.4s | ~3.7-3.9s |
| Engine | Same 3.0L twin-turbo flat-6 | Same engine, different tune |

The Carrera S just has a more aggressive factory tune - about **50 more horsepower**. But both engines are identical otherwise.

## The Value Question

- **Base Carrera market range**: $81,811-$100,889
- **Your car**: $104,991 (slightly above typical range)
- **Low-mileage Carrera S**: ~$112,186 on average

This specific Carrera is already priced right where Carrera S vehicles start, and it's **loaded with the right options**: Sport Exhaust System, Sport Seats Plus, GT Sport Steering Wheel, and that stunning Racing Yellow paint. You're essentially getting enthusiast-focused S-spec goodies at a base price point.

## My Take

Unless you're tracking regularly or need that extra 0.4 seconds to 60 mph, the base Carrera delivers 95% of the experience. For street driving, canyon carving, or weekend fun? The 370 hp is plenty potent - you're still talking sub-4-second 0-60 performance with that manual transmission.

**Bottom line**: The "S" badge is nice for the ego, but this well-optioned base Carrera is the smarter buy.

Want to compare similar Carrera S listings? Check these out:
[Carrera S $114,998](https://classic.com/veh/2017-porsche-911-carrera-s-wp0ab2a96hs123129-nXEYrkW)
[2017 Carrera 4S $119,800](https://classic.com/veh/2017-porsche-911-carrera-4s-wp0cb2a9xhs154523-pPLrjRp)

What's your main use for the car - daily driver, weekend toy, or track days?

Lot 18-544: 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera

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Lot 18-544: 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera

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