Car Statistics: Porsche - 911 Series 04 (5 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

Not the most original piece of design - it's hard to tell this 911 from the previous generation at first glance. But handsome, well detailed and, let's face it, essential.

Handling (5 stars)

A rear-mounted engine should be a recipe for dynamic catastrophe, yet Porsche has made the 911 handle brilliantly across the range. The GT3 and GT2 offer a significant step up in ability, but the RS versions can stake a serious claim as the best drivers' cars ever made.

Comfort (4 stars)

The ride is firm and can occasionally get joggly over rougher surfaces, but high-speed cruising manners are exemplary and the driving position is brilliant no matter which model you opt for.

Quality (4 stars)

The 911 has earned its reputation for reliability over five decades of gradual improvement, and the 997 feels about as solidly constructed as it's possible for sports car to get. That said, the interior design is starting to look its age.

Performance (5 stars)

Even the most basic version is satisfyingly quick, but the gutsy GTS is the Carrera to buy. The GT3 and GT2 RS variants are amongst the fastest cars on the planet.

Roominess (3 stars)

Front seat occupants enjoy reasonable space, but the rear seats are barely up to moving small children short distances, and the small front boot is awkward to access. Expect the more extreme versions to come with a space-eating roll cage.

Costs (3 stars)

You'll need a very healthy bank account to even contemplate putting a 911 on the driveway but healthy residual values mean it costs considerably less to own than supercar rivals.

Value (3 stars)

Basic versions have reasonable equipment, but the options list is deep and expensive. It's alarmingly easy to watch the price spiral out of control.

Stereo (4 stars)

The audio system delivers clean, crisp sound to both front seat occupants. Optional satnav system works well.