Hey guys my son is looking to purchase a 99-03 or so C2 Coupe. What should we look out for when looking at these cars. I have picked up may tips from owning my 02 TT X 50 car but this was my first P car and I am still just a newby on the P cars. Any insite would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, John

 

yeah, go for the 2002+. The displacement and horsepower/torque increased in '02 and the difference is noticeable. i've also heard the reliability is a bit better, but i'm sure that's a case by case basis.

99-01: 3.4, 300 hp
2002+: 3.6, 320 hp

 

Check and make sure the RMS isnt leaking...

If it is, it shouldnt be a deal breaker, but use it for negotiating.

Other than having a PPI and examining the paint/body work in the SUN LIGHT, the cars seem to be very reliable.

I bought mine with 68k miles and it allready had the coolant resevoir replace which is another commen failure. It also had a leaking RMS at the time.

In 2 years the only repair I have had to do other than routine maintenance or freakish things is the Air Oil Sperator.

Between those 3 things I cant think of anything to look for.

BTW, I have a 99. I prefer the MY99 Because it is noticeably lighter and doesnt have the electronic throttle control and electronic aides that seperate the car from the driver. It also can be had with a LSD if you are lucky.

 

definitely check to make sure there are no leaks.

I've got an 01 c2, and the only issue I've had so far is having to replace the gas cap.

Best of luck on congrats to your son!

 

01 with no problems, the only problems that i have had is the combination of mods that i have installed, if i kept it stock, i would be headache free

 

99 c2

no problems... i have done every maintenance item possible..so i have a car that is ready to rock.. 90000KM

PLEASE DONT FORGET TO CHECK the front drains... if they are clogged you will get water leaking into the passanger compartment... easy fix but easily overlooked... again bargaining chip too!!

if its a cab... then have the dealer check/clean all the drains!

 

Thanks guys for all your input. Now let the search begin. He is also considering a Nissan 350Z if he can't find a Pcar.

 

The power difference between a pre 2002 and post 2002 is negotiable. I've driven both extensively and the pre 2002 is far more nimble due to the weight.

 

'99 c2 here as well. bought last may w/ 33K on it. so far, we've had to replace the clutch as apparently the previous owner hadn't owned a manual trans before. aghhh! we also replaced a belt that was squeaking when starting the engine.

other than that....we love it!

GL with your search!

 

Thanks, we have a couple to look at today.

 

JWC -I'm in NYC and I'm selling my 99 996. I had no RMS issues. From experience and chatting with fellow members of the PCA, I think if the car have RMS issues, it should be already been fixed by now.

Please feel free to msg me for other advise.

 

as I am actively looking for about the same thing as your son, here are my thoughts on 996 cars.
99- best bang for your buck. super car.
2002... THE year of 996 toget it if you can afford it... only reason to go other than a 99 is this year. you get bigger motor, mkII facelift, stiffer chassis than before glovebox and some other goodies I am forgetting.
A big plus-- 2002 do not have the fiber optic sound system... so easier to upgrade your system... which most likely your son will want to do. above 2002 have to ugprade everything at once.

good luck in the hunt

 

uberpoop.. i agree that a 99 996 is really the best bang for your buck supercar... and i can't believe i'm selling mine for $27k... thats price of a honda accord! i never had any mechanical problems.. porsches are known to be solid, unlike ferraris etc.

at this price, it could be used for many things - a daily driver, track day car or just a weekend car.

oh i wasnt aware of soundsystem differences.. listen to the engine, not the stereo.. LOL

 

don't buy a 350Z! that doesnt even compare.. ricerocket.

 

Thanks for the input uberpoop. Well we looked at a 350 Z today very clean car and cheap @ 23K but the first thing my son said as we pulled up to see it was "that's too riced out". It had a body / bumper kits. We drove 2 1/2 hrs. to VA Beach for nothing. The search continues.