Porsche 718 vs Porsche 911
The short answer
Based on available data, the Porsche 911 comes out ahead of the Porsche 718 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
718
Overall
Sentiment is highly positive regarding the 718's core driving dynamics, with owners consistently praising its exceptional handling, steering precision, and chassis balance. The platform is widely regarded as a pure, mid-engine sports car that offers an engaging and confidence-inspiring driving experience on both public roads and track environments. However, a significant and recurrent point of contention centers on engine character, creating a generational divide.
Best version to buy
The 718 GTS 4.0 is frequently cited as the best all-around version for spirited street driving. Owners highlight its potent naturally aspirated 4.0L flat-six engine, which provides a strong mid-range and an engaging character, combined with the refined 718 chassis.
Known issues
- Throttle response lag / turbo lag (turbo 4-cylinder models): Noticeable delay in power delivery, especially at lower RPMs, described as a lack of immediate response. Frequency: recurrent.
- Engine sound / character (turbo 4-cylinder models): Exhaust note considered uninspiring and inferior to the flat-six engine's sound, a major point of criticism. Frequency: very frequent.
- Long gearing (GT4/Spyder models): Gear ratios described as excessively long, making it difficult to rev out the engine fully on public roads. Frequency: recurrent.
911
Overall
Sentiment is deeply polarized and varies significantly by generation and model. Long-term ownership satisfaction is frequently described as very high, with many owners reporting the car living up to or exceeding lifelong expectations. The 911 is often cited as a benchmark for driver engagement and is recognized as a highly satisfying vehicle to own.
Best version to buy
997.2 Generation: Specifically praised as the "absolute best modern 911" for combining hydraulic steering, a manual transmission, and a modern enough interior. The 997.1 Turbo is also highlighted as a desirable, proven performance variant with a durable engine and dry-sump oiling.
Known issues
- Extremely high maintenance and repair costs: Major engine or transmission failure can cost more than the car's value, and parts are exceptionally expensive. Frequency: very frequent.
- Turbo lag in modern turbocharged engines (991.2, 992): Noted as a significant dynamic flaw, with criticism that reviewers downplay its presence. Frequency: recurrent.
- Interior material quality and durability: Hard plastics, manual seats in base models, and specific issues like peeling door cards on 991 models left in the sun. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Porsche 911 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Porsche 718, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Porsche 718 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Porsche 718 or the Porsche 911?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Porsche 718 and the Porsche 911. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Porsche 718 or the Porsche 911?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Porsche 718 is classed as a Cabriolet, the Porsche 911 as a Coupe, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Porsche 718 or the Porsche 911?
The EPA rates the 2025 Porsche 718 at 16–24 mpg combined and the 2026 Porsche 911 at 15–21 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Porsche 718 or the Porsche 911?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.