2005 Porsche 911 Carrera S

This is Porsche's rear-engine sports car, the one that defines the 911 name for 2005. The steering is precise and the chassis feels planted, making it a joy on twisty roads. The cabin is snug but well laid out, with supportive seats that hold you in place during hard cornering. Owners note that tires wear quickly, especially the rears, and some have dealt with minor electrical gremlins. The Carrera S sits above the base Carrera, adding a 3.8-liter engine and Porsche Active Suspension Management as standard. Its 3.6L I6 makes 415 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic that shifts smoothly but isn't as engaging as the manual. PASM lets you toggle between Normal and Sport modes, firming the dampers for sharper cornering at the expense of a stiffer ride.