I just got a new 911 C2S cab a few months ago and I love it, but I'm reluctant to track it because it's over $100K and leased, plus I have limited track experience so I'd rather learn on a cheaper practice car.

So I'm thinking of getting an older used car primarily for tracking, and one option is the 996. I just test drove a 2000 911 C2 (996) and loved it. It has 94K miles but it's in mint condition. The dealer is asking $24K, and I'm tempted to grab it if they go down to $20K. My questions:

- How suitable is the 996 for tracking?

- How does the 996 compare with the 993 and 997? A used 993 costs more than a 996, and a lot of people think the 997 was a big advance over the 996? I didn't notice a huge difference compared to my 997, but not sure how much one can judge from one test drive.

- How much maintenance and repair should I expect going forward?

- The dealer has a 30-day/1000-mile warranty and of course it has already passed inspection. Should I get it inspected by a seperate mechanic? I've only bought one used car in the past, and the experience wasn't good.

Thanks.

 

Many people use the 996 for track applications, and it's very good. They are a great value in the market right now too.

Maintenance will vary considerably, depending on the condition of the car you buy. Obviously tracking a car is a little harder on it than street driving, so you'll have to consider that.

The 996 compares very favorably with the 997. It is similar in terms of size, weight, weight distribution, handling, etc. The 993 (while very beautiful), is heavier and slower. I personally wouldn't track a 993 - I'd keep that one as a garage queen.

A 996 C2 would be a blast on the track. I would recommend an upgrade to a ceramic intermediate shaft bearing though. They are a known issue (although relatively rare) on the 996 and the 997.1 cars.

DEFINITELY get a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified Porsche mechanic. This will cost you $250 - $300.

 

Get a Boxter... you will have a better track car with superior handling, less cost and more reliability..... hint ... RMS seals etc...

 

I love the Boxster, but what about the issue with some tracks not allowing convertibles? I'd rather not get into adding roll bars or other mods. Plus, I'm starting to get addicted to rear-engine layout of the 911.

 

A Boxster would also have IMS/RMS issues. They aren't immune to the problem. If you get a 996 turbo or a 996 GT3, then you won't have those issues!

 

I have a 2000 996 C2 and I track my car. It is an awesome track car. As an earlier post suggested, do the IMS upgrade on the car if it has not been done already. I would also recommend adding X51 oil pan as well as changing the oil / topping up before every track event.

 

That's why I "disposed" of my C2 and bought a Turbo :-)

 

After a good ppi.....Get it At 20k, get some good tires and a good suspension sys ... Make it as light as possible.... And live happy!

 

I've tracked both my carrera and my boxster in DE's and i would pick a 996 over a boxster each and every time.

 

Wow, opinions are all over the place - confusing!

I should clarify that I'm not planning to race, at least not at this point. Just want to spend time on the track and develop driving skills.

 

I know things change based on condition but I think 20k is a little high for the mileage. I've seen them listed around 18k with a little under 100k.

 

Even at 20k I would pass.... last August I picked up my 99c2 cabriolet from Porsche of Scottsdale, triple black (metallic) with more options than most C4's have, one owner, who had all the service done at that dealer from purchase. With 80k miles. Flawless car.

The dealer installed a new clutch, brand new Conti Pilots on all 4 rims, did the full scheduled major service, and full detail. (Several Ks worth of work total)

I was out the door including taxes for 18.4k, knowing the history and major services were done to the car.

....................with what you described above, I would even be wary at 20k with a ppi done. I would rather go private party and find a 1 owner with all the service history and less mileage for under 20k.

Just my .02

 

Seems like you got a really good deal. I did a search on Cars.com and couldn't find anything that good. Also, KBB and Edmunds TMV on the car I'm considering is $22K.

I think it will come down to whether this is the right car for me, rather than price. One drawback is that the car is bright yellow and has the aerokit, so it draws a lot of attention, which is opposite of what I want.

 

Sounds like a perfect track car! I love the aero kit on the MK I cars.

 

try to find the cheapest cayman s you can as a track car. you should be able to find a high mileage 06 for $25k by now?