2009 Porsche 911 (997, facelift 2008) Dimensions, Size & Specs

Including opened side mirrors, the Porsche 911 (997 facelift) measures about 1952 millimeters (76.9 inches) in width. This is notably wider than the body width of 1808 to 1852 millimeters (71.1 to 72.9 inches). The extended mirror width is important to consider when parking or navigating narrow spaces, as it affects the total space required to maneuver the vehicle safely. This dimension ensures adequate rearward visibility but means drivers should be cautious in tight environments where mirror clearance could be limited.

The Porsche 911 (997 facelift) has a curb weight ranging from 1370 to 1595 kilograms (approximately 3020 to 3516 pounds), depending on the model variant and equipment level. Its maximum permissible weight varies between 1680 and 1960 kilograms (3704 to 4321 pounds). The relatively low curb weight for a sports car contributes to its exceptional acceleration, handling agility, and braking performance. The balance of lightness combined with structural rigidity is a hallmark of Porsche engineering, enhancing driving dynamics without sacrificing comfort or safety.

The Porsche 911 (997 facelift) offers a luggage capacity of around 135 liters (4.8 cubic feet) with the rear seats in use. When the rear seats are folded down, the available storage can range from 105 to 135 liters depending on configurations, although the rear seats folding down typically applies more to the coupe’s rear section rather than expanding trunk space vastly. While this space is modest compared to many traditional sedans or SUVs, it is generally sufficient for daily essentials, a couple of small suitcases, or grocery bags. The 911 prioritizes sportiness and driver experience over large cargo volume but still provides reasonable practicality for weekend trips or errands.

Yes, the Porsche 911 (997 facelift) can fit into a standard residential garage comfortably. Typical single-car garage widths range from about 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet), and the 911’s width with mirrors folded is between 1.81 and 1.85 meters (5.94 to 6.07 feet), leaving ample room on either side for opening car doors and maneuvering. Its length of approximately 4.44 to 4.47 meters (14.6 to 14.7 feet) also fits well within most standard garage lengths that are generally around 5 to 6 meters (16.4 to 19.7 feet). The relatively low height (1.28 to 1.31 meters or 4.2 to 4.3 feet) poses no height clearance issues in usual garages. Overall, the 997 facelift's dimensions ensure ease of parking and storage at home.

The 2008 facelift of the Porsche 911 (997) introduced subtle changes in size compared to the pre-facelift models produced from 2004 to 2008. While the overall length remained very similar, marginal increases in width and slight alterations in height occurred, partly due to revised body panels and updated aerodynamic components. The facelift version’s width ranges up to 1852 millimeters (72.9 inches), slightly wider than the pre-facelift which was on the narrower end around 1770-1800 millimeters (69.7-70.9 inches). These dimensional changes contributed to a more aggressive stance and improved stability, while maintaining the iconic silhouette, ensuring evolutionary rather than revolutionary size updates.

Compared to competitors such as the Audi R8 and Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, the Porsche 911 (997 facelift) is generally more compact. The R8 is longer (around 4420 to 4440 millimeters or 174 to 175 inches) with a wider and lower profile but similar in width when mirrors are excluded. The Mercedes SL models tend to be larger, both in length and width, offering more cabin and luggage space but sacrificing some agility. The 911 maintains a smaller footprint designed for precise handling and tight cornering agility. Its relative compactness helps with urban usability and parking, whereas the R8 and SL emphasize grand touring luxury and presence on the road.

The Porsche 911 (997 facelift) supports a variety of rim sizes, including 8.5J x 19, 11J x 19, 8J x 18, 10.5J x 18, 8J x 19, 11J x 19, 12J x 19, and other combinations tailored to specific variants. Tire sizes include options like 235/35 ZR19, 305/30 ZR19, 235/40 R18ZR, 265/40 R18ZR, 245/35 ZR19, 325/30 ZR19, and more. Larger and wider rims combined with lower-profile tires improve handling responsiveness and cornering grip, providing a sportier driving feel. Conversely, smaller rims and higher-profile tires offer a slightly more comfortable ride. Porsche carefully balances these choices to optimize performance without compromising daily drivability.

The height of the Porsche 911 (997 facelift) ranges from approximately 1280 to 1310 millimeters (50.4 to 51.6 inches). This low vehicle height is a key factor in its classic sports car design, lowering the car’s center of gravity which enhances stability and cornering performance. The sleek, low profile also contributes to aerodynamic efficiency, reducing drag and improving high-speed stability. Inside, although the cabin is compact, the design remains driver-focused, with close-to-the-road visibility and an immersive driving experience characteristic of Porsche’s 911 lineage.

With a luggage capacity of roughly 135 liters (4.8 cubic feet), the Porsche 911 (997 facelift) offers modest but usable storage for a sports car. While it does not compare to larger grand tourers or SUVs, this volume is sufficient for essentials like two carry-on sized suitcases or a couple of weekend bags, catered towards sporty weekend getaways or short trips. The rear seats’ folding capability can provide flexible space for smaller items, although it doesn't significantly enlarge cargo volume as the model is primarily designed for performance and driver enjoyment. Thus, while long journeys requiring substantial luggage might be limited, the 911 offers practical everyday usability within its sporty constraints.