Hey new to the forum and currently shopping for a 996. The question I have is what do people with experience with the 996 Porsche think the is best 996. Not trying to stir debate but I am really torn. I love the light simplicity of a C2, the styling and AWD of the C4 and power of the turbo (which of course has all of the attributes of the c4 as well). I am leaning towards a C2s but am coming from v8 powered cars and am concerned that I will want more power and find the car a bit slow and too expensive to really modify (ie might as well go for the turbo). Will be using the car as a 2nd car, couple track days general fun.

Thoughs would be appreciated, can't wait to get in a Porsche.

 

If power is going to be an issue I would go with a 996tt. The NA 996 though fast might be a bit under powered coming from a V8. No matter what model you go for it is still a great car and really fun to drive.

 

hyper911, I just picked up my first 996 C2 this past weekend and though the only v8 I've ever owned was a Discovery I do own a 365whp (354whp daily) turbo S2000 and will say the 996 offers plenty of go. Mine is the early model with the 3.4L and I kinda wish I would have gotten the 3.6L (plus the headlights look better) but the price was right. I would just say find one and drive it. If you do go with the C2 there is always the TPC turbo kit and VF supercharger for big power adders if you get bored and you'll end up with the power of a Turbo but without the weight and cost. It isn't as fast as my Honda (Blasphemy I know) but I didn't get it for competition use.

I was limited by budget, so if a Turbo is in the budget, go for it... If not... I'd say shoot for a 02+ C2 and upgrade as needed.

Just my .02 cents

Ben

 

Thanks for the replies, I know it may be an odd question. I really like N/A cars and if I could I would go 997 GT3, but that is not in the cards. My last car or toy was a Mustang (had many of them over the last 15 years) at 3100lb and 521rwhp it was pretty quick, in a straight line. But I have always wanted a Porsche and want a more rounded car. Budget is $45-50k tops, but I dont have to spend it and love the sound of an C2 with exhaust, I just dont know if I will get bored of the power quickly.

 

If you've got the budget for turbo - DO IT!!!

 

I have been driving Porsches since before my kids were born (and they are way out of college).
Whenever someone asks me how much power it has, i sigh and say, "never enough!"

JB

 

Thanks again. I will focus on some turbos and see if I can get any up here in Toronto for my budget that are not deferred maint. nightmares. I hear you on the power, never enough!