Just saw the Top Gear review of the 997 and am wondering if I am better off with a 996 with all options instead of a base 997 with chrono, given the price differential unless I get a 997S, or perhaps a 996 4SC would be better? Your opinion? Thanks

 

If I wanted to spend more than $50K for a car I'd get a used 7S. I don't, so I drive a 996

 

I'd recommend you look up 996 Carrera 4S article in July GTPORSCHE magazine.I think that may help you make your decision.

Terry

 

Terry,

I'm having trouble finding this article. Do you have a link? Thanks.


John

 

To me, if you are selecting between a 996 and 997, it is all about "how much you want to spend". The 997 is, after all, an evolutionary change from the 996, with newer and improved "everything"
If you were asking about the choice between a 996 and a 993, then you would encourage some interesting debate!

 

996 Turbo

 

I would buy a 996 turbo or a 997s. If you are looking to mod the car, then the 996 turbo hands down.

 

Heres an interesting article that might be of use:

http://www.gtpurelyporsche.com/downl...6Carrera4S.pdf

 

I don't see it on their web sight and it looks like you have to call the UK to order back issues.I found my copy pm me your address I'll drop it in the mail if you like.I rescued it from the recycle bin.

Terry

 

I'd get the 996TT...gt1 based engine,,,,,same block as the gt3RS, 993's, etc. A "race" block....dry sump, etc.

What I did....and their prices are just about rock bottom....they were 140k cars...

 

I would assume that you're refering to the late 996 and early 997.

Because of the price difference I can't say it's a fair comparison. You cam get a 996 gt3 for the same price as an 05 997. I can't see why anyone would take the 997 compared to a gt3 unless they wanted a DD.

997 is by far a better car than a 996 in the base form but substantially more pricey.

 

I must be missing something here... If it's in the budget and you are strictly looking at N/A cars, pick up the 997 (C2S if $$ allows) - If it's not, there are plenty of great examples of the 996 generation at incredibly low prices right now. I don't think we can debate the merits of a 996 vs. the 997 without an idea of your budget.

All that said, for the pricepoint it appears you are looking at, I'd buy a 996tt 7 days a week and twice on sundays. A 40k 996tt with 2 grand of mods will be the best way to stretch you dollar. Welcome to the 6speed community btw.

 

Thanks to all for the helpful replies. I started with a budget of $30K tops. I am stretching to get to 40K, and it looks like it may be worth the stretch for a 997. What about a 996 C4S? They are around $35.... Can't afford a 997S, it the 996C4S a better bet?

 

ARe you just looking to get into a porsche for the name or for the performance? If you are in the price range for a 997 N/A, then you should be in the range of a 996 TT.. Which is a dream car.

I wouldnt buy the 996 N/A if you have 40 to spend... unless you just want the hood badge... but even then you can get a cayman s with warranty for the same price.

What kind of options are you looking for? The navigation is sub-par, the upgraded stereo sounds like a 1980s Peugeot radio, you can get better seats in the aftermarket... And a fully loaded 996 still doesnt have the technology that a base 997 has.

 

I drive an '02 C4S and honestly, I'd buy something else if I could do it all over again. Don't get me wrong, C4S is a great car, but here in NorCal I don't need the AWD and wish I didn't have to haul around the extra weight. Would get a 997 C2S if I had the $$.

BTW - I went to school at Davis, go Aggies!