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Porsche 997: How to Choose New Wheels

Many Porsche owners' first modification is a set of different wheels. It helps the car stand out and creates a unique look for the vehicle.

By Jacob Stumph - April 27, 2015

This article applies to the Porsche 911 (997) (2005-2012).

A new set of wheels is quite simply one of the easiest and most effective ways to make your Porsche 911 (997) stand out from the others out there. Many owners debate on which wheels to select, as there are a lot of choices. While it's great to have choices in life, where do you even begin to look? We're going to break down the most important aspects of picking out a new set of wheels to make the choice a lot easier.

Materials Needed

  • Jack and jack stands
  • Porsche lug nut tool/tire iron

Step 1 – How much do you want to spend?

Like almost every purchase in life, the limits of what you can spend on a set of wheels are limited only by the depths of your pockets. A set of used OEM wheels can start at around $500 on the forums all the way up to thousands of dollars for some race-ready wheels, like HRE or BBS wheels. If you're on a budget, a set of used wheels can save you 30% or more off the cost of new, if you can live with potential blemishes.

Usually, the OEM Porsche wheels offer a more conservative (read: easier) wheel fitment, with less concerns about the tires rubbing on the fenders and sticking out of the wheel well. While quality will generally cost you more, there are some good options in the middle of our price range, and you can realistically pick up a set of good aftermarket wheels for less than $1,500. But when you are shopping, buyer beware: cheaper wheels are often composed of heavier, cheaper materials. Make sure to check out online reviews and forum opinions before you take the plunge.

Figure 1. 997 Carrera2 with Turbo wheels.

Pro Tip

Porsche Turbo wheels from the 997 Turbo fit under the standard narrow-body 997 Carrera. This is an easy option with guaranteed OEM quality and fitment.

Step 2 – Pick out a color

What kind of overall look are you going for? Do you want a set of black wheels to match your black paint, or do you want a contrasting color? Maybe you would prefer chrome or an aluminum type finish. Your color choices are completely wide open, whether you buy a set already painted or get a set with a custom color added on later. Black goes good with pretty much any color (including black), but other popular combinations include red on white or silver, dark or light gray with pretty much any color, or even green with black. If you're a fan of flashy finishes, take a look at some of the possible color combinations sold on the GT3 for inspiration.

Figure 2. Red wheels on white, GT3RS.

Pro Tip

Have you found your dream wheel, but you aren't smitten with the color? Wheels can be painted or powdercoated by local vendors for around $100 per wheel. Ask around your local Porsche Club of America (PCA) group for recommendations on powdercoating services.

Step 3 – Which size wheel is best?

Most 997 models left the factory with 18" or 19" wheels, and many elect to stay with this size when it comes time to purchase new wheels. If you plan on tracking your 911, a smaller diameter wheel would be advisable, due to the cost of tires and available choices. Conversely, if "bling" is your goal, 20" wheels can be fit on your 997 without much issue.

Figure 3. 19" Forgeline wheels on 997 GTS.

Pro Tip

The correct tire size is crucial for correct wheel fitment. If you elect to run a larger wheel, make sure to purchase tires with a shorter sidewall to keep the overall tire diameter close to original specifications.

Step 4 – What are your goals?

Do you want a set of wheels that simply look awesome, or are you an aspiring weekend warrior at the local autocross or track day? Maybe you are only interested in building a show car, in which case silly things like clearance and rubbing don't matter. The point here is that your decision will hinge largely on what your intended purpose for the car is. If you want to win trophies, you will be spending money on flashiness, not capability. If you have racing aspirations, you will want a lighter wheel that allows you to mount a wider set of tires. Be honest about how you will use the car before you drop the money on a set of wheels, or you might be listing them on Craigslist two weeks later when they don't fit your needs.

Figure 4. How do you plan on using your 997?

Pro Tip

Wheel diameter, width, and offset (backspacing) are all crucial information that needs to be known to ensure that your wheels will fit. Too aggressive of a wheel specification can stick out past the wheel openings or rub the fenders. Tire size needs to be matched accordingly to ensure the best fit.

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