So I’m thinking about taking a leap and getting a 02+ 996 C2S or C4S.

I don’t really know a lot about Porsches, I come from the Bimmer world, lol. But I am starting to get kind of tired of BMW’s and want some thing different. I was thinking about reserving an E92 M3 but once I saw the specs I was not that impressed.

How reliable are 02+ 996’s, and also should I be looking at the C2S or C4s I know the C2s is RWD and the 4S is AWD, how does it affect the performance of the car?

I learned to drive stick in a boxster S and a few years ago I drove a 996TT and it was such a great car. If I get a 996 I will be keeping it for the next several years don’t want to be plagued with repairs. I will probably go out and drive a 911 at the dealership at this weekend and see how it is, I just have a feeling I will not be satisfied with the power of an 996 non TT though. I do not think a E46 M3 is really that quick and I want some thing at least a little quicker than a M3. The TT is the car I really want but I am scared of getting a TT Porsche because if I have any problem the expense that would be associated with it and they would probably have to drop the motor.

But im just looking for some info on the 996’s and the driving characteristics differences of a C2s and C4’s and possible realabity issues they may have.

Thanks a lot
-Barron

 

Off all the cars you named the E92 M3 will be quickest by far.(oops, bar the 996TT)

But when looking at a 996 i would opt for a C4s because it's alot better looking than a narrowbody C2S.

just my 2p.

ps: i currently drive a "really slow" 330ci aswell Looking into a 997 myself.

 

I can speak to my experience with a used 03 C2. I purchased it a year ago with 19k miles. Since then, I've had the following service experiences:

- Dead pixels on the climate control (covered by warranty)
- RMS Leak (covered by warranty)
- Creaking from strut bearings (covered by warranty)
- Clutch replacement
- 30k mile service
- Tires
- Front Brake Pads

I am out of warranty now, yipes, so we'll see what happens...but mostly I've paid for normal wear items and haven't had to for the unexpected faults. I was a little annoyed at having to replace the clutch at 30k miles, but who knows what the former owner did to it.

Now, am I happy with this car? Absolutely! I love this car dearly and have no regrets at all. It still puts a smile on my face every time!

I can't speak to C2 vs C4 except that a very knowledgable car friend told me he prefers the C2.

 

The reliability of the 996 is excellent and I actually went with my 996 versus a M3 because of that. I come from a background of Japanese cars so relaibility was probably my main concern...but anyway, couldn't be happier with the car.

Some things have changed in my life and I'm forced to sell mine. So if you're ever interested, shoot me a PM but I'll probably have a official for sale ad soon...

Well-optioned, mint, and has a few aftermarket goodies. 18K miles.
Wheels are the 18in Carrera wheels versus those in the pic.

 

I've had my C4S since brandnew. Bought it in 2003, it has 17K miles on it now. I've had zero issues with it. No warranty work at all. I'm finally due for new tires though

Go with a C4S, it is a stunningly beautiful car and much rarer than M3s

 

skip it buy a tt
buy mine lol

 

Wow 17K on a set of tires... Now I'm impressed. I get 8-10k the most on the rears.

 

There are many, many people who have 996s as their daily drivers. There are also a number of TT owners with very high mileage. I had a C2 and after I fixed the RMS leak I had zero issues with it. If you want big power and plan to use it often get the TT. I have a TT and drive conservative 99% of the time, but for that other 1% LORDY! Don't be skerred of the twins.

My understanding is the 3.6 C2 is quicker than the E46 M3.

 

I had a 04 beemer 330ci.....i must say i really liked it...had no issues what so ever...thats old story
Now, I have a 03 911 c2....i love it!! ...a heck of a lot quicker than 330ci...very very close to M3
IMO....try to get 02+ (get CPO if possible, really worth it!!)

c4s Vc2...i prefer c2...it all depends on looks, weight, handling, etc....

good luck!!!

 

A 996 isn't faster than a E46 M3. You want power do the TT. It's not difficult or too expensive to get a TT up over 450HP. As far as n/a C2 or C4 a C2 has less working parts, is a little lighter and a little less $$. But if it is your primary car and you will be driving in the rain & snow a C4 may be the way to go. By the way reliability is excellent on these cars.
k

 

I have 46K miles on my C4 CAB (and it's for sale) and other than the RMS being replaced at 29K miles, the car has been extremely dependable and no other issues. Other than tires and oil......

 

Do It !!!!!!!!

 

Yo Barron, Making the switch too haha?

Message me and I will tell you all you need to know!

 

Have been a C4S owner for 15 months and although I'd go for the 4S over the 2 there are a couple of things in the small print you should know... tyres, you'll get more miles out of the 4S than the 2. Back end is not so lively with the 4S as the PSM can put 40% onto the front if it needs it as opposed to the normal 5%. Brakes!!! The 4S has the turbo discs and brakes and the corresponding price hike should they need to be replaced! Ouch.
RA

 

Simply put you will need to drive these cars to make your decision. Some cars 'feel' faster than they are.
It doesn't matter what others think you should have. Go with your gut and then with your wallet. Drive a newer S and then drive an older TT to compare the feel and power. The older TT will be about the same price as the newer S.
As a matter of more contrast, look up on youtube for a video on Top Gear comparing the turbo to the S and see what they think.