Question: Are the early production 2001's the only one with the black "bumperettes" on the front like in the attached picture? I've been searching for an 01 but recall someone posting about staying away from the cars with the "bumperettes" because they were the very first 996tt's.

 

Yup, the bumperretes are on the 1st production cars. Along with the solid spoke wheels. I dont think they are any different than the later 01's besides these issues. I have an 01' that I just picked up some hollow spokes for and will be going to a GT2 bumper soon. I wouldnt let these stear you away from an early 01 as you can change these out easily.

 

Thanks for the reply. So the bumperettes can be removed? Or does the entire bumper need replacing?

I think the person's post was referring to staying away from the earlier production 2001's because of bugs, glitches, etc. not just because of the bumperettes.

 

No bugs or glitches at all. The only difference is the Bumperettes. You'll need to replace the front bumper cover to get rid of them.

 

Thanks Scott

 

I've heard the same thing, not sure why. Must be a heavy glovebox.
Seriously, I think there might have been some additional body stiffening that added weight.

 

I'm sure the sub in the back adds weight. I realize that some cars say turbo when the rear seats are folded down? Mine just has two air holes that work as a sub or something.

Shouldn't you separate the X50's since they have GT2 trannys?

 

Wow crazy, never ever knew that!!! Learn something new every day

 

Always buy the latest model year you can afford that is typical advice for any car. They are always improved year to year.

 

Only two things I'd stay away from on an '01 are the really early ones with the ugly bumperettes and solid spoke wheels. These were changed early in the model year so most '01s will be fine.

 

Even though this is a common statement, from a value standpoint it is usually incorrect. When I was shopping I was looking at 3 cars:

2003 $93k
2002 $84k
2001 $72k.....negotiated to $69k

The cars were in similar condition with appropriate mileage (per year averages were similar). The 2001 was actually better optioned.

OK, you can't tell me the other cars, (very shallow in the depreciation curve) were better deals.

And yes, I have bumperettes......but so does the 993TT. I thought I'd dump them, but they don't detract from the car's good looks really at all.

 

Color, history, options, price, then year (in that order were my priorities when looking).

 

Mine was year (I wanted a '01), miles, color, and price.

 

I have an 01 with 50,000 miles. I had the bumperettes removed and the bumper repaired (cheap), that also eliminated the need for bumper plugs (sorry Eric). I have numerous interior and engine upgrades (chip, exhaust, air box). I agree with Buddy G that you should always buy the lastest model, but in the case of the 01's, maybe the workman were more careful and prideful with the early models because they had to know what a ground breaking car they were building and their pride had to be at an all time high. Just a theory but many 01 members are very happy

 

Agreed, i mean obviously there are always exceptions in any year with ISSUES, most people say first year model gets it the worst, BUT my 01 had absolutely zero issues except normal wear and tear