Porsche 911 Depreciation: Do They Hold Their Value?


in Car Costs and Prices

Here's everything you need to know about Porsche 911 depreciation: if it holds its value, what its resale value looks like, and other general buying info.

blue Porsche 911
Porsche 911 by Matti Blume – CC BY-SA 4.0

For over half a century, the Porsche 911 has been the benchmark of performance driving and has captured many hearts. What started as a modest sports car based on the Volkswagen Beetle has evolved into an automotive icon that refuses to be ignored. The secret to its enduring success? It is a perfect mix of heart-pumping performance and luxurious refinement that few can match.

Whether you’re carving through twisty mountain roads on a weekend getaway or cruising down the highway on your daily commute, the 911 delivers a distinct and unforgettable driving experience. But here’s the million-dollar question: do these legendary machines hold their value over time, or do they depreciate faster than a used pair of socks?

In this article, we’ll examine the Porsche 911’s depreciation and uncover the factors that determine whether this sports car is a smart investment or a financial sinkhole. Let’s take a look.

Porsche 911 Depreciation: How Well Does It Hold Its Value?

In this section, we discuss the 911 depreciation as analyzed by various trusted outfits, including CarEdge and iSeeCars.

According to data from CarEdge, a Porsche 911 will depreciate by approximately 15% after five years, leaving it with a resale value of $178,971. This is an impressive feat, considering the 911’s starting price of around $210,554. In fact, the 911 is known for its ability to retain value better than most other vehicles on the market.

So, what makes the Porsche 911 such a depreciation-resistant machine? For starters, the 911 has a reputation for being virtually indestructible. With proper maintenance, these cars can last for decades, racking up hundreds of thousands of miles without breaking a sweat. This durability, combined with the 911’s iconic status and loyal fan base, helps to keep demand high and values stable.

Of course, not all 911 models are created equal when it comes to depreciation. Limited-edition variants and highly sought-after trims tend to hold their value even better than standard models. In some cases, certain 911s have even appreciated in value over time, making them a solid investment for collectors and enthusiasts alike.


ARE PORSCHES RELIABLE?

Some Porsche owners have daily drivers for going to work, taking the kids to school, etc., and keep the Porsche for joyrides and leisure. But if you want to use a Porsche as a primary car, you’ll want to know if Porsches are reliable.


Porsche 911: Top in Value Retention

On the other hand, according to a recent iSeeCars study, the Porsche 911 coupe takes the top spot, losing a mere 9.3% of its value after five years. This translates to an average price difference of just $18,094 from its original MSRP. It’s a testament to the 911’s enduring desirability and timeless appeal.

Interestingly, the Porsche 911 isn’t the only model from the German automaker to impress in terms of value retention. The 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster also make strong showings, with 17.6% and 25.1% depreciation rates, respectively. Even the Porsche 911 convertible, which one might expect to lose value more quickly due to its open-top design, holds its own with a respectable 26% depreciation rate.


HOW LONG DO PORSCHE 911s LAST?

If you’re interested in purchasing this car for yourself, there are many items to consider. For instance, you might wonder - how long do Porsche 911s last?


Comparing the 911 to other notable models on the list, it’s clear that Porsche has a knack for creating vehicles that resist the ravages of time and depreciation. The Chevrolet Corvette, another iconic sports car, loses 27.5% of its value after five years – a far cry from the 911’s single-digit depreciation rate. Similarly, while still impressive in their own right, the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro can’t quite match the 911’s ability to hold its value.

It’s worth pointing out that the Porsche 911’s depreciation cred isn’t just a matter of luck or chance. The car’s reputation for quality, performance, and longevity has been carefully cultivated over decades, and it shows in the way the market values used 911s. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for a pre-owned 911 because they know they’re getting a vehicle built to last and deliver an unparalleled driving experience.

Used Porsche 911 Buyer’s Guide (Powered by CoPilot Price Pulse Tool)

For this section, we check out the performance of the 911 in the used car market by leveraging our handy Price Pulse tool. To illustrate, we used the 2020 Porsche 911 as a reference point. Here’s what we found:

A resale value powerhouse

Confirming the analyses above, the Price Pulse Tool paints a picture of high-value retention for the 2020 Porsche 911. The 2020 Porsche 911 has proven itself to be a true champion in the used car arena, commanding a substantial $18,562 premium over its original price forecast. This impressive 16% increase clearly indicates the 911’s enduring appeal and ability to defy the usual depreciation curve that plagues most vehicles.

Peak pricing caveats

However, the current market conditions might not be ideal for buyers hoping to snag a deal on a pre-owned 911. With prices at their peak, it’s a seller’s dream but a buyer’s challenge. The 911’s strong resale value, while a positive attribute for owners, can be a hurdle for those looking to enter the world of Porsche ownership without breaking the bank.


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The double-edged sword of high resale value

The 2020 Porsche 911’s impressive performance in the used car market reflects its timeless design, exhilarating performance, and undeniable desirability. It’s a vehicle that turns heads and retains its value, making it a superb choice for those who can afford the premium price tag. However, this substantial resale value can be a double-edged sword, as it makes it more challenging for buyers to find a 911 at a bargain price.

Disclaimer: The prices and insights provided in this analysis are based on real-time market data and are subject to change. As the automotive market evolves, the values and premiums discussed may fluctuate. This information serves as a snapshot of the current market conditions and should not be considered a guarantee of future performance.

Porsche 911 Depreciation: Closing Thoughts

To wrap up, the 2020 Porsche 911’s remarkable performance in the used car market showcases its enduring desirability and value retention. While its high resale value may present challenges for bargain-seeking buyers, it is a testament to the 911’s timeless appeal. As with any market analysis, it is essential to keep in mind that these insights are based on current conditions and may change over time.



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