So I am on the border of possibly buying a 996 cabriolet. Here are the details

99 Cabriolet W/ hardtop, 31K miles, Viola Metallic, gray interior, has traction, sound processor, Body colored backs to the front seats and other interior details. Carfax shows clean and clear I can get the car for $25-26K. Which I think is a killer price.

Now the car has been checked per the dealer selling the car and it is in excellent mechanical condition. If this is true and the car is clear after I have a certified Porsche dealer check the vehicle, is it worth the money?

I do believe it has the original motor still, which concerns me and leads me to a few questions.

1. Is there a way to circumvent the possible engine failure, AKA signs when doing the every 3k oil changes that let you know something is not kosher and minor rebuild can prevent?

2. Car is located in Illinois, any recommendations for a good shop to have the inspection done at?

3. How nice is the car for a daily driver during nice weather? Winter weather aside, I would like to put 15K a year on the car. Will it hold up to this with religous maintence and if I am handy cost of maintence? I am a current BMW owner off warranty and it is no biggy in my opinion to keep my 2000 7 series purring away.

4.How upgradable are the early 996s? I would be interested in adding later model tails and features.Along with performance, I like the VMS header exhaust and the KN intake combo. AKA stereo items, interior items and performance items.

So that is it for now, Appreciate peoples opinions in general. The more the better. Wish I had some pictures, but if I get enough positive feedback I will own it and then it will be on.

Cheers

Moltenburn

 

Personally I'd save and buy a 3.6L model. There were many improvements that make the car better all around. No matter what year you decide on the driving will be fantastic and you will of owned one of the best sports cars in the world. Keep the wallet open and ready though...

 

Any one else wanting to chime in. appreciate the feedback.

 

I have a 1999 996 C4 Cab, 31,000 miles

I have no issues after 18 months ownership. I think the engine failure thing is blown out of perspective. Keep up your motor up to date and I dont think you will have any issues. They are high performance motors and need to be treated as such. A motor with 31,000 miles on it and original should not scare you at all! A car with 31,000 with its motor replaced should scare you!

There is no 100% in the clear on anything. Look at the car. Look at the maintenance. Get an inspection. I think that is all you can do. Just be ready to walk away if everything doesnt check out 100%

I would be careful of the "great deals". There may be a reason for trying to unload the car!

Any Porsche dealer will gladly inspect it for you.

Not many mods to do unless you go Supercharged. (Lots of mods but not any with a significant increase in power)

Thats it. Its a high performance car that people turn into a daily driver Civic. Its not a Honda so you have to pull the maintenance. Alot of people lease then and abuse them. I would get a carfax as well. I chose to stay away from lease vehicles but Im sure they can be just as good.

MY .02. Hope it helps.

 

I have had my 99 for 7 years. I bought it with 9k miles on it. It now has 26k miles on it and has been a great car with only minor issues. MAS, seatbelt, ing switch and of cource TIRES!!!