New member with some questions...
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Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 2,436
From: North Bend, WA
Rep Power: 164
Welcome Justin. That is a very nice Evo you have there.
-Do you ever regret purchasing your 996?
No, in fact it's the best overall sports car I've ever purchased, and I actually enjoy it more the longer I own it (much unlike some other sports cars I've owned in the past...including Nissan 300ZX TT, 5 Toyota Supra Twin Turbos, and a Corvette Z06.
-Is there much if any difference between the 2001 and 2002?
2002 brought on the aforementioned cupholders and dash glovebox, hollow spoke turbo twist wheels, and the front bumper lacks the ugly bumperettes. It's worth noting that the front bumper and hollow wheels were available on later 01 models as well. The 02 model offers some enhanced structural bracing, and I believe it also comes with the Bose subwoofer in the back (probably not a big deal at all). The X50 option is available from 2002 onwards, and PCCB (ceramic) brakes are also available from 2002 onwards. The X50 option is something you'd be interested in, when comparing two similar cars.
-Do you find the insurance costs outrageous? (Obviously when I get nearer to my decision I will get the quote from my agent)
It's the most expensive car I've ever insured, but not by an enormous margin. I pay $130ish a month for full coverage on it, but a C6 Z06 would cost me about $95 (for reference).
-What are the big service intervals to look out for in a used car? (timing belt/chain, water pump, etc) How expensive are they?
Timing chain is a nice surprise, and is essentially a no maintenance item from what I gather. The bigger service intervals are at 30k and 60k and have spark plug changes...which are expensive due to labor time.
-What would you estimate your yearly average of servicing is?
I've only owned mine about 9 months, bought it with 39k miles, but really haven't had to do much at all (knock on wood) other than really routine stuff.
-Anything specific to seek or beware of in terms of options?
X50 is upgraded turbos and intercoolers (02+) and is worth the stretch. This was a $17k option in 2002 and will probably cost you only $1k to $2k relative to a similar K16 turbo equipped 996TT in todays dollars, if even that. The PCCB (ceramic) brakes are generally thought to be avoided by road racers (due to high replacement costs) but are good for general use and spirited driving.
Please note that I own a lightly modified 2001 model, so my general knowledge base is from that model. If I were in the market right now, I'd be looking for a 2002 model with X50 package since the prices are absolutely bonkers (meaning low). Even when I bought 9 months ago it would have been much costlier to have an 02 with X50 than today. There are a lot of great deals out there, so good luck and happy shopping.
-Do you ever regret purchasing your 996?
No, in fact it's the best overall sports car I've ever purchased, and I actually enjoy it more the longer I own it (much unlike some other sports cars I've owned in the past...including Nissan 300ZX TT, 5 Toyota Supra Twin Turbos, and a Corvette Z06.
-Is there much if any difference between the 2001 and 2002?
2002 brought on the aforementioned cupholders and dash glovebox, hollow spoke turbo twist wheels, and the front bumper lacks the ugly bumperettes. It's worth noting that the front bumper and hollow wheels were available on later 01 models as well. The 02 model offers some enhanced structural bracing, and I believe it also comes with the Bose subwoofer in the back (probably not a big deal at all). The X50 option is available from 2002 onwards, and PCCB (ceramic) brakes are also available from 2002 onwards. The X50 option is something you'd be interested in, when comparing two similar cars.
-Do you find the insurance costs outrageous? (Obviously when I get nearer to my decision I will get the quote from my agent)
It's the most expensive car I've ever insured, but not by an enormous margin. I pay $130ish a month for full coverage on it, but a C6 Z06 would cost me about $95 (for reference).
-What are the big service intervals to look out for in a used car? (timing belt/chain, water pump, etc) How expensive are they?
Timing chain is a nice surprise, and is essentially a no maintenance item from what I gather. The bigger service intervals are at 30k and 60k and have spark plug changes...which are expensive due to labor time.
-What would you estimate your yearly average of servicing is?
I've only owned mine about 9 months, bought it with 39k miles, but really haven't had to do much at all (knock on wood) other than really routine stuff.
-Anything specific to seek or beware of in terms of options?
X50 is upgraded turbos and intercoolers (02+) and is worth the stretch. This was a $17k option in 2002 and will probably cost you only $1k to $2k relative to a similar K16 turbo equipped 996TT in todays dollars, if even that. The PCCB (ceramic) brakes are generally thought to be avoided by road racers (due to high replacement costs) but are good for general use and spirited driving.
Please note that I own a lightly modified 2001 model, so my general knowledge base is from that model. If I were in the market right now, I'd be looking for a 2002 model with X50 package since the prices are absolutely bonkers (meaning low). Even when I bought 9 months ago it would have been much costlier to have an 02 with X50 than today. There are a lot of great deals out there, so good luck and happy shopping.
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Joined: May 2009
Posts: 462
From: Denver, CO
Rep Power: 46
As others have stated, go for the 2002+ and look for the X50 option. It was expensive as an option, but these days, the difference between an 02 X50 and non X50 makes the option a great buy.
With simple mods (exhaust, tune, diverter valves, and 93 octane) you'll be around the 530ish crank hp mark. Great for a daily driver car as you'll only get into the boost when you want and the clutch will hold up fine for daily driving.
If the car is over 30,000 miles, be sure the 30K service has been done as this will run about $1000 - $1500 depending on where you have it done. Getting the plugs replaced is expensive.
Also look for tire wear. The stock rears are 295/30/18 and (if you go with Pilot Sport Tires) can be $400+ per tire. Use this as a concession when buying the car.
Never have had a 2nd thought about this car. Best all around car I've ever owned. Great on the twisty roads, and great in the snow (with snow tires). Good mileage, and excellent reliability.
With simple mods (exhaust, tune, diverter valves, and 93 octane) you'll be around the 530ish crank hp mark. Great for a daily driver car as you'll only get into the boost when you want and the clutch will hold up fine for daily driving.
If the car is over 30,000 miles, be sure the 30K service has been done as this will run about $1000 - $1500 depending on where you have it done. Getting the plugs replaced is expensive.
Also look for tire wear. The stock rears are 295/30/18 and (if you go with Pilot Sport Tires) can be $400+ per tire. Use this as a concession when buying the car.
Never have had a 2nd thought about this car. Best all around car I've ever owned. Great on the twisty roads, and great in the snow (with snow tires). Good mileage, and excellent reliability.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 53
From: West 'burbs of Chicago
Rep Power: 19
Thanks!
Well, first off I have to thank all of you for your thought out responses. I didn't expect to receive so much input so fast!
I'm going to ask some more questions and then respond individually to some specific people. Also there was one member from Park Ridge whose screen name I currently forget that PM'd me. I actually can't PM you back until I have 15 posts, but when I do, you'll hear from me!
Here are my next round of questions....
1. I read somewhere that Porsche recommends 15k intervals on the oil, which is more than double than I've ever done, although the capacity is almost triple that of any other car I've owned. Thoughts?
2. The lack of options in tires is a little worrisome, Do many of you stray from the stock sizing? (I know there is no problem with going a little bigger or smaller, but I don't know if that would leave more or less options) Its funny to see R6 Hoosiers for cheaper than the stock tires.
3. I am aware of the X50 package. What I don't know is the exact differences between the turbos in the X50 and the standard model. Are they still considered K16? When the cars are modded, does the difference in power between the X50 and standard diminish or widen? (Obviously not talking about 18g's or 28Rs' Vs the stock X50 turbos)
4. I'm seeing ECU flashes for $1500-2000, which in my opinion is stupid expensive. Yes I understand that its a different market, and people are willing to pay more but for that price I can buy a standalone ECU... Are there self tuning options out there? Piggybacks or ways to flash the stock computer?
5. Although changing the plugs sounds like a total pain, that is something I am more than competent in doing. Other than a clutch job, are there things that may need to be serviced or replaced? It almost seems too good to be true that all you need to do in this car is change out the plugs, fluid and possibly the clutch and coil packs
A close friend of mine is an APR dealer but I don't think they allow you to make changes yourself, plus you have to buy their license $$$.
I'm guessing what you're referring to is the P's tendency to "push" through corners? I imagine I will keep this one more stock. For suspension, I would at most I would pick up some PSS9's.
I hope your exaggerating a bit with the clutch issue. They can't be THAT bad, can they? My stock evo clutch was a champ, even at ~400whp.
I really like the owners and a few employees at AMS, but $5500 for 2 compressor wheels is god awful. Especially since IIRC, the exhaust side remains stock.
I currently live in St. Charles. I might have to take you up on that offer, that is IF that was an actual offer .
My car would stay AWD. Considering it would be a daily driver and Illinois winters, not only would I keep AWD but I would get dedicated winter wheels and tires.
I am a little concerned, you say you didn't have much fun with it AWD? Are you being a little dramatic? Seems like it would be a blast, but my experience is limited.
Money certainly is. You REALLY have to pay to play on these cars.
I'm going to ask some more questions and then respond individually to some specific people. Also there was one member from Park Ridge whose screen name I currently forget that PM'd me. I actually can't PM you back until I have 15 posts, but when I do, you'll hear from me!
Here are my next round of questions....
1. I read somewhere that Porsche recommends 15k intervals on the oil, which is more than double than I've ever done, although the capacity is almost triple that of any other car I've owned. Thoughts?
2. The lack of options in tires is a little worrisome, Do many of you stray from the stock sizing? (I know there is no problem with going a little bigger or smaller, but I don't know if that would leave more or less options) Its funny to see R6 Hoosiers for cheaper than the stock tires.
3. I am aware of the X50 package. What I don't know is the exact differences between the turbos in the X50 and the standard model. Are they still considered K16? When the cars are modded, does the difference in power between the X50 and standard diminish or widen? (Obviously not talking about 18g's or 28Rs' Vs the stock X50 turbos)
4. I'm seeing ECU flashes for $1500-2000, which in my opinion is stupid expensive. Yes I understand that its a different market, and people are willing to pay more but for that price I can buy a standalone ECU... Are there self tuning options out there? Piggybacks or ways to flash the stock computer?
5. Although changing the plugs sounds like a total pain, that is something I am more than competent in doing. Other than a clutch job, are there things that may need to be serviced or replaced? It almost seems too good to be true that all you need to do in this car is change out the plugs, fluid and possibly the clutch and coil packs
A close friend of mine is an APR dealer but I don't think they allow you to make changes yourself, plus you have to buy their license $$$.
-Is there much if any difference between the 2001 and 2002?
cupholders in 02
-Anything specific to seek or beware of in terms of options?
2002+ look for "X50" option
-What kind of trap speeds could you expect out of a mildly modded 996 with the stock K16's on pump gas? I'm talking probably a nice custom de-catted exhaust, an intake and a flash tune.
Not 130mph
-At what point will I be pushing the limits of the stock clutch?
Once you drive it out of your driveway.
With anything more than stock your clutch will be begging for mercy. Maybe look into a Clutchmasters or Spec clutch
-Are 127-130mph trap speed on 93 octane reasonable without pushing any limits of reliability?
Yes you can do this reliably but it will take more than just bolt ons. I see you used AMS to mod your Evo. Look into their billet K16 kit.
-Are these good cars to road course?
See other threads. Lots of debate on this recently. A lot of people will tell you you need coilovers and a rear sway at the minimum when it comes to suspension
cupholders in 02
-Anything specific to seek or beware of in terms of options?
2002+ look for "X50" option
-What kind of trap speeds could you expect out of a mildly modded 996 with the stock K16's on pump gas? I'm talking probably a nice custom de-catted exhaust, an intake and a flash tune.
Not 130mph
-At what point will I be pushing the limits of the stock clutch?
Once you drive it out of your driveway.
With anything more than stock your clutch will be begging for mercy. Maybe look into a Clutchmasters or Spec clutch-Are 127-130mph trap speed on 93 octane reasonable without pushing any limits of reliability?
Yes you can do this reliably but it will take more than just bolt ons. I see you used AMS to mod your Evo. Look into their billet K16 kit.
-Are these good cars to road course?
See other threads. Lots of debate on this recently. A lot of people will tell you you need coilovers and a rear sway at the minimum when it comes to suspension
I hope your exaggerating a bit with the clutch issue. They can't be THAT bad, can they? My stock evo clutch was a champ, even at ~400whp.
I really like the owners and a few employees at AMS, but $5500 for 2 compressor wheels is god awful. Especially since IIRC, the exhaust side remains stock.
where in Chicago do you live? I am in NW burbs...all you need is a ride in my car ...you will forget your EVO.996tt is an upgrade from EVO in all aspects. If high hp is your thing i highly recommend 996tt..you will not regret. These cars are very reliable and maintainable costs are very low, find a good independent shop and you are all set.
Most of the modded cars are in the 130-140 traps speeds here. Off course some are crazy in the high 140's
Oh with just a flash and exhaust you are in the low 120's, with k24/18g high 120,low 130's.
Most of the modded cars are in the 130-140 traps speeds here. Off course some are crazy in the high 140's
Oh with just a flash and exhaust you are in the low 120's, with k24/18g high 120,low 130's.
. Justin,
I've done my best to address your questions below.
-Do you ever regret purchasing your 996?
Never, its been a total joy to own. I've had zero headaches relative to other cars i've owned.
-Is there much if any difference between the 2001 and 2002?
There will be a few threads on this exact subject if you search around but to hit the main points the 2001's don't have a glove box (doesn't sound like a big deal but still kinda bothers me) Early '01's also have front bumper warts, and non-hollow spoke wheels which are slightly heavier than the late prodution 01 and up cars.
-Do you find the insurance costs outrageous? (Obviously when I get nearer to my decision I will get the quote from my agent)
I'm 25 got my car when I was 24 and pay 100.00/month with stuff on my record.
-What are the big service intervals to look out for in a used car? (timing belt/chain, water pump, etc) How expensive are they?
I'm not sure on the costs of the specific things you mentioned but these cars can be maintained very reasonably perhaps even moreso than your standard E-Class Mercedes or 5-Series BMW. If you are even somewhat Mechanically inclined you can do alot of the work yourself.
-What would you estimate your yearly average of servicing is?
Depending on how many miles you intend to put on the car ..... I know you said yours would be a daily I would count on doing 5 or so oil changes .... approx total $400, a new set of tires (cost varies) the other stuff will be mileage dependent to be honest.
-Anything specific to seek or beware of in terms of options?
The options list on these cars is pretty outrageous and you can pick up very nicely optioned cars that were probably north of $150K new for pennies on the dollar. If you wait and have a little room on the price you can almost certainly find the exact car you are looking for. An X50 car is certainly a little more desirable as it comes with slightly larger turbos than the non X50 cars and could potentially save you money IF you decided to get a little heavier into modding.
-What kind of trap speeds could you expect out of a mildly modded 996 with the stock K16's on pump gas? I'm talking probably a nice custom de-catted exhaust, an intake and a flash tune.
As Vince said above I would expect low 120's with those mods and a good driver.
-At what point will I be pushing the limits of the stock clutch?
As long as you don't drive like a total asshat you will be good on the stock clutch until around 525whp for a fairly decent period of tiem.
-Are 127-130mph trap speed on 93 octane reasonable without pushing any limits of reliability?
To get these traps on 93 octane is going to take significant modifications I would guess no less than 20K in hardware alone.
-Are these good cars to road course? I know they perform well, but Im asking about cost/fun factor. A friend had a brief stint owning a diablo and had to pay 20k in maintenance/repair after a track day. Not the kind of investment I'm looking to make... not even close.
You won't get a bill like that after tracking a turbo. I didn't have much fun driving mine on the track until I removed the front drivetrain. It woke the car up a bit and eliminated some of the push.
Besides the obvious (which I am knowingly able to afford) like tires, brake pads, fluids are there other items to look out for or that need regular repair or maintenance? There are cars that were plagued with the 2nd gear pop-out issue. MOST have been fixed though. Always a good thing to check for though.
If you've got any more questions let me know.
I've done my best to address your questions below.
-Do you ever regret purchasing your 996?
Never, its been a total joy to own. I've had zero headaches relative to other cars i've owned.
-Is there much if any difference between the 2001 and 2002?
There will be a few threads on this exact subject if you search around but to hit the main points the 2001's don't have a glove box (doesn't sound like a big deal but still kinda bothers me
) Early '01's also have front bumper warts, and non-hollow spoke wheels which are slightly heavier than the late prodution 01 and up cars. -Do you find the insurance costs outrageous? (Obviously when I get nearer to my decision I will get the quote from my agent)
I'm 25 got my car when I was 24 and pay 100.00/month with stuff on my record.
-What are the big service intervals to look out for in a used car? (timing belt/chain, water pump, etc) How expensive are they?
I'm not sure on the costs of the specific things you mentioned but these cars can be maintained very reasonably perhaps even moreso than your standard E-Class Mercedes or 5-Series BMW. If you are even somewhat Mechanically inclined you can do alot of the work yourself.
-What would you estimate your yearly average of servicing is?
Depending on how many miles you intend to put on the car ..... I know you said yours would be a daily I would count on doing 5 or so oil changes .... approx total $400, a new set of tires (cost varies) the other stuff will be mileage dependent to be honest.
-Anything specific to seek or beware of in terms of options?
The options list on these cars is pretty outrageous and you can pick up very nicely optioned cars that were probably north of $150K new for pennies on the dollar. If you wait and have a little room on the price you can almost certainly find the exact car you are looking for. An X50 car is certainly a little more desirable as it comes with slightly larger turbos than the non X50 cars and could potentially save you money IF you decided to get a little heavier into modding.
-What kind of trap speeds could you expect out of a mildly modded 996 with the stock K16's on pump gas? I'm talking probably a nice custom de-catted exhaust, an intake and a flash tune.
As Vince said above I would expect low 120's with those mods and a good driver.
-At what point will I be pushing the limits of the stock clutch?
As long as you don't drive like a total asshat you will be good on the stock clutch until around 525whp for a fairly decent period of tiem.
-Are 127-130mph trap speed on 93 octane reasonable without pushing any limits of reliability?
To get these traps on 93 octane is going to take significant modifications I would guess no less than 20K in hardware alone.
-Are these good cars to road course? I know they perform well, but Im asking about cost/fun factor. A friend had a brief stint owning a diablo and had to pay 20k in maintenance/repair after a track day. Not the kind of investment I'm looking to make... not even close.
You won't get a bill like that after tracking a turbo. I didn't have much fun driving mine on the track until I removed the front drivetrain. It woke the car up a bit and eliminated some of the push.
Besides the obvious (which I am knowingly able to afford) like tires, brake pads, fluids are there other items to look out for or that need regular repair or maintenance? There are cars that were plagued with the 2nd gear pop-out issue. MOST have been fixed though. Always a good thing to check for though.
If you've got any more questions let me know.
I am a little concerned, you say you didn't have much fun with it AWD? Are you being a little dramatic? Seems like it would be a blast, but my experience is limited.
Justin, welcome aboard. There's several people on here that have come from the Supra and Evo world, so maybe they can chime in on their thoughts. Evo's are certainly cars that are no slouches in their own right and people who think otherwise, usually just don't know enough about them. That being said, 996TT's have a much nicer interior and the attention to detail and how robust the car feels is heads and shoulders above the Evo. As for performance, Evo's are quite a bit less expensive to make fast. 996TT's can be made fast for not too much money as more players get in the game, the latest breakthrough with small K16's is the AMS K16 Billet wheel, so look into it since you're already familiar with them. TT's will take you as fast as you want to go and more, money is the only prohibiting factor lol Lots to learn so immerse yourself in other threads.
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Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,215
From: Socal
Rep Power: 82
Boltz, I will be glad to show you my car and take you for a highway pull. Maybe sometime in Feb when the weather gets better, i will pm you. Okay an X50 has k24 turbos from the factory. The stock non X50 cars have k16.
So this is how it goes
Stock 996 tt: k16
x50 : k24
Hybrids: Increasing order of power.
k16< k24<k16/16g < k24/18g<k24/20g
You can send your k16 or k24 to blouch and they will convert it to hybrid for $1200.
Hope this makes sense.
So this is how it goes
Stock 996 tt: k16
x50 : k24
Hybrids: Increasing order of power.
k16< k24<k16/16g < k24/18g<k24/20g
You can send your k16 or k24 to blouch and they will convert it to hybrid for $1200.
Hope this makes sense.
Last edited by vbmw335; Jan 11, 2010 at 08:43 PM.
I had a 03 evo 8 thAT Adamat devo built... ran 10.2s at 139 mph... drove it somewhat regularly....
At the same time I had a 996tt... and still do... there is no words I can explain when it comes to being in the two cars... if you want to hang out at streets of woodfield and pick up high school girls then keep the evo... if you what to have the Evo guys drool over your 996tt meanwhile you picking up their girls... well, get the Porsche ..
sorry for a stupid analogy...
I live near Niles.. come by this week I have 2 P cars sitting... one mildly tuned and one a bit beefed up..
markski
At the same time I had a 996tt... and still do... there is no words I can explain when it comes to being in the two cars... if you want to hang out at streets of woodfield and pick up high school girls then keep the evo... if you what to have the Evo guys drool over your 996tt meanwhile you picking up their girls... well, get the Porsche ..
sorry for a stupid analogy...
I live near Niles.. come by this week I have 2 P cars sitting... one mildly tuned and one a bit beefed up..
markski
__________________
2001 996TT 3.6L and stock ECU
9.66 seconds @ 147.76 mph 1/4 mile click to view
160 mph @ 9.77 seconds in 1/4 mile click to view
50% OFF ON PORSCHE ECU TUNING BLACK FRIDAY SPECIAL
2001 996TT 3.6L and stock ECU
9.66 seconds @ 147.76 mph 1/4 mile click to view
160 mph @ 9.77 seconds in 1/4 mile click to view
50% OFF ON PORSCHE ECU TUNING BLACK FRIDAY SPECIAL
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,870
From: San Diego, San Francisco
Rep Power: 116
[quote=Boltz.;2684515]Well, first off I have to thank all of you for your thought out responses. I didn't expect to receive so much input so fast!
I'm going to ask some more questions and then respond individually to some specific people. Also there was one member from Park Ridge whose screen name I currently forget that PM'd me. I actually can't PM you back until I have 15 posts, but when I do, you'll hear from me!
Here are my next round of questions....
1. I read somewhere that Porsche recommends 15k intervals on the oil, which is more than double than I've ever done, although the capacity is almost triple that of any other car I've owned. Thoughts?
Change the oil and filters every 3K or once a year. It's cheap insurance
2. The lack of options in tires is a little worrisome, Do many of you stray from the stock sizing? (I know there is no problem with going a little bigger or smaller, but I don't know if that would leave more or less options) Its funny to see R6 Hoosiers for cheaper than the stock tires.
With 18" wheels there plenty of tire options. Hoosiers are a track tire that might get you 3-5k on the street and won't work well unless you get them hot. Forget driving in the burbs of Chicago during winter. Stick with a true street tire.
3. I am aware of the X50 package. What I don't know is the exact differences between the turbos in the X50 and the standard model. Are they still considered K16? When the cars are modded, does the difference in power between the X50 and standard diminish or widen? (Obviously not talking about 18g's or 28Rs' Vs the stock X50 turbos)
The X50 package uses K24 turbos (instead of K16's) larger intercoolers and different ECU programing. More high end power but you sacrifice low end. That's why you see so many peeps on the board mod to K16/24 hybreds. The best of both worlds. Many of the x50 cars came with PCCB as an option. Very good on the street and they last forever but not good for the track.
4. I'm seeing ECU flashes for $1500-2000, which in my opinion is stupid expensive. Yes I understand that its a different market, and people are willing to pay more but for that price I can buy a standalone ECU... Are there self tuning options out there? Piggybacks or ways to flash the stock computer?
Flashing a 996TT is anything but stupid expensive. You can easily gain 60-75HP with a good ECU flash with a lower restrictive exhaust. You can't get this kind of horsepower for the money on any NA car with just a flash and exhaust.
5. Although changing the plugs sounds like a total pain, that is something I am more than competent in doing. Other than a clutch job, are there things that may need to be serviced or replaced? It almost seems too good to be true that all you need to do in this car is change out the plugs, fluid and possibly the clutch and coil packs
You are correct, changing the plugs and coil packs are a total PIA. The rear tires wear out quickly (10-12K) and the diverter valvest are plastic and fail easy (there are several bullet proof metal aftermarket replacements available). This is about as much maintenance as you'll have to put up with.
A close friend of mine is an APR dealer but I don't think they allow you to make changes yourself, plus you have to buy their license $$$. If you're buying a non CPO car the only thing you might void with modifications is the emissions warranty. Most German modification parts are TUV approved. In the USA most modification parts are technically illegal but no one checks unless you fail a smog test or get a noise ticket.
Other thoughts are you'll need to mod the suspension. Your Evo is much lighter and better balanced than a Turbo especially in the rear end. The stock 993/996/997 ride height is much too high and soft. With PSS10s and a bigger rear sway bar with stock 18"you can dial in a very nice ride height with reasonable comfort. It you go with wider 19" wheels and GT ride height you'll need to consider rear dogbones and toe steer links to keep the negative rear camber/toe closer to street spec.
Last word of advice, consider yourself lucky to live near Markski. Go see him.
I'm going to ask some more questions and then respond individually to some specific people. Also there was one member from Park Ridge whose screen name I currently forget that PM'd me. I actually can't PM you back until I have 15 posts, but when I do, you'll hear from me!
Here are my next round of questions....
1. I read somewhere that Porsche recommends 15k intervals on the oil, which is more than double than I've ever done, although the capacity is almost triple that of any other car I've owned. Thoughts?
Change the oil and filters every 3K or once a year. It's cheap insurance
2. The lack of options in tires is a little worrisome, Do many of you stray from the stock sizing? (I know there is no problem with going a little bigger or smaller, but I don't know if that would leave more or less options) Its funny to see R6 Hoosiers for cheaper than the stock tires.
With 18" wheels there plenty of tire options. Hoosiers are a track tire that might get you 3-5k on the street and won't work well unless you get them hot. Forget driving in the burbs of Chicago during winter. Stick with a true street tire.
3. I am aware of the X50 package. What I don't know is the exact differences between the turbos in the X50 and the standard model. Are they still considered K16? When the cars are modded, does the difference in power between the X50 and standard diminish or widen? (Obviously not talking about 18g's or 28Rs' Vs the stock X50 turbos)
The X50 package uses K24 turbos (instead of K16's) larger intercoolers and different ECU programing. More high end power but you sacrifice low end. That's why you see so many peeps on the board mod to K16/24 hybreds. The best of both worlds. Many of the x50 cars came with PCCB as an option. Very good on the street and they last forever but not good for the track.
4. I'm seeing ECU flashes for $1500-2000, which in my opinion is stupid expensive. Yes I understand that its a different market, and people are willing to pay more but for that price I can buy a standalone ECU... Are there self tuning options out there? Piggybacks or ways to flash the stock computer?
Flashing a 996TT is anything but stupid expensive. You can easily gain 60-75HP with a good ECU flash with a lower restrictive exhaust. You can't get this kind of horsepower for the money on any NA car with just a flash and exhaust.
5. Although changing the plugs sounds like a total pain, that is something I am more than competent in doing. Other than a clutch job, are there things that may need to be serviced or replaced? It almost seems too good to be true that all you need to do in this car is change out the plugs, fluid and possibly the clutch and coil packs
You are correct, changing the plugs and coil packs are a total PIA. The rear tires wear out quickly (10-12K) and the diverter valvest are plastic and fail easy (there are several bullet proof metal aftermarket replacements available). This is about as much maintenance as you'll have to put up with.
A close friend of mine is an APR dealer but I don't think they allow you to make changes yourself, plus you have to buy their license $$$. If you're buying a non CPO car the only thing you might void with modifications is the emissions warranty. Most German modification parts are TUV approved. In the USA most modification parts are technically illegal but no one checks unless you fail a smog test or get a noise ticket.
Other thoughts are you'll need to mod the suspension. Your Evo is much lighter and better balanced than a Turbo especially in the rear end. The stock 993/996/997 ride height is much too high and soft. With PSS10s and a bigger rear sway bar with stock 18"you can dial in a very nice ride height with reasonable comfort. It you go with wider 19" wheels and GT ride height you'll need to consider rear dogbones and toe steer links to keep the negative rear camber/toe closer to street spec.
Last word of advice, consider yourself lucky to live near Markski. Go see him.
Last edited by Duane996tt; Jan 11, 2010 at 11:51 PM.
4. I'm seeing ECU flashes for $1500-2000, which in my opinion is stupid expensive. Yes I understand that its a different market, and people are willing to pay more but for that price I can buy a standalone ECU... Are there self tuning options out there? Piggybacks or ways to flash the stock computer?
I think all of your other questions have been addressed properly so i'll chim in here. Standalone on these cars is not even in the same ball park as far as pricing goes. The DME in these cars is quite complex compared to many other ECU's I'll let those who are more knowledgeable chime in. I bought what I felt was the best programming available and paid $3K at the time. I'd do it all over again given the chance as well. A bad program is a very very costly mistake in these cars. As you said you really do have to pay to play. I've got nearly $20K in my car in hardware minus labor and downtime but I also picked up nearly 400bhp.
I am a little concerned, you say you didn't have much fun with it AWD? Are you being a little dramatic? Seems like it would be a blast, but my experience is limited.
No drama. Just honesty. The AWD leaves these cars feeling very numb. The car more than easily puts the power down in RWD. If you look at the 60-130 standings thread its no coincidence that 4 of the top 5 cars are running RWD. Oh, and that car that is AWD is a 997TT. Some do like the AWD safety net others may be a bit more capable. I would suggest doing what you feel comfortable with.
I think all of your other questions have been addressed properly so i'll chim in here. Standalone on these cars is not even in the same ball park as far as pricing goes. The DME in these cars is quite complex compared to many other ECU's I'll let those who are more knowledgeable chime in. I bought what I felt was the best programming available and paid $3K at the time. I'd do it all over again given the chance as well. A bad program is a very very costly mistake in these cars. As you said you really do have to pay to play. I've got nearly $20K in my car in hardware minus labor and downtime but I also picked up nearly 400bhp.
I am a little concerned, you say you didn't have much fun with it AWD? Are you being a little dramatic? Seems like it would be a blast, but my experience is limited.
No drama. Just honesty. The AWD leaves these cars feeling very numb. The car more than easily puts the power down in RWD. If you look at the 60-130 standings thread its no coincidence that 4 of the top 5 cars are running RWD. Oh, and that car that is AWD is a 997TT. Some do like the AWD safety net others may be a bit more capable. I would suggest doing what you feel comfortable with.
Just my .02
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The tune is your best bet. Regardless of how pricey it is, you do not understand how well the stock DME works. If you are looking for 130mph on pump gas, then the DME will be perfect for you. But if you insist on building a standlone I say go for it. It is not as easy to do so. Well sure you can get it wired in, but what do you do about the Christmas tree of a dash that you get. There are only 2-4 of us that have a working standlone without the Christmas Tree. Mine was developed by one of the greatest tuners in the world (Justin Nenni). We would love to see more people in the market, so if you think you have the time and knowledge to do it. I would go for it, and many will applaud you for doing so! The only reason why I went with mine is because in the near future I will be building my motor and see what kind of power I can make on these Billet 5857's. If it doesn't make what I want it to I will be stepping up to the next size turbo of couse.
Last edited by Powell; Jan 12, 2010 at 08:12 AM.
