Hey fellas, I need some advice. I just sold my 993 since it just wasn't as much fun to drive anymore. Frankly, it felt slow and sluggish. It was a beautiful car and I had absolutely no mechanical problems with it.

Now, I'm looking to get into a 1999 or 2000 996. Any opinions on reliability, 996 specific issues to look for, drive/performance comparison to a 993, and anything else you would think is relevant to know? I will definitely get a PPI before buying but any input would be much appreciated. Thanks guys.

Lou

 

I too would love to have this info. A business associate of mine is selling his 2000 C4 w/Aero (70,000 miles) and just wanted to see if I should eye ball anything in particular before spending the money on a PPI.

 

I have a 2000.... It is a great machine....no real problems at all over here

 

I agree.

 

Compared to a 993 performance wise there is no comparison. The 996 is completely superiro and much lighter. The only problem(my opinion) compared to the 993 is its ugly. the feeling you get from a 993 is so great in a whole different way. For your only Porsche 996 no question! Mine has been bullet proof. Go for a 00-01 if your doing early 996.

 

The early 996's are great cars. RMS issue on some but a repair that won't break the bank.

In stock form it's not that attractive in my opinion.
I think the key is to get one in the proper color, bigger tires, some decent wheels, maybe an aero kit and a good exhaust then throw on some coilovers.
Good to go.


tw

 

get one with an aerokit if you like that look... doing that yourself will cost you more money...

 

I have a 2000 996 cab. and love it.

 

I got my first pcar this year. 99 C2 and am loving it. I agree with the above that you have to prioritize your wants.

Mine has stock body parts and I wish it had some aero pieces. But it had Works wheels, exhaust and other items that were on my list of needs.

So now I get to save and choose an aggressive front bumper and wing.

 

interesting that you say if felt slow, the difference is only about 30hp and 25kg.

993 weight 1370 kg 272hp
996 weight 1345 kg 300hp

if you're getting bored try going to a few track days... it will really wake you up to the capabilities of your car.

 

Just left my M3 and into the 996. NO LOOKING BACK HERE!!

 

helps in the decision making and knowing what to look for.

Lou

 

Hey good luck on your hunt for a new pcar. IMHO, I would look for a post-facelift 996 (02-05 996). Probably looking for an 02 C2 Coupe would give you the best value. There were a lot of changes / updates in the post facelift revision of the 996, and there are a lot of good deals floating around.
What is your target price range?

Also since you are in SoCal, you may want to post over at www.pcars.us forum and get to know some of the local pcar crowd. Good group of guys over there and all in SoCal.

 

10% On the hp is a large number when coupled with a 2% weight reduction. I just past 90k on an 01 996. I will be upgrading soon to an 02-05 for the 3.6 liter motor in the near future. I have had only the RMS issue here and will r and r with a new clutch in the next few weeks.
Good luck
J Greer

 

99 C2 and C4 here and LOVE them. Great cars, zero issues, except the RMS once. Fixed once, and long forgotten. Just great cars to carve up a canyon in!