Hey everyone, im pretty new to the Porsche forums...Ive spent the past few years on bimmerforums, e46fanatics, etc. Im looking to step into a 911 but need your opinions.

99' 911 Carrera 4 vs 01 M3

With the mileage/color/condition/price the same, what do you all think?

Ive driven both and love both!

The M3's have issues such as rod bearing, rear shock mounts, sensors, air flow meters etc. What will I expect for a 996? Will it be a mistake to buy an almost 10 year old car with no warranty for over $30k?

TIA!-JR

 

Both GREAT cars. Drive them both, then decide which ones does what you want it to do.

 

I'd take the 911 every day of the week. Why not get an extended warranty?

 

I would go with the porsche but 2000 and up.

 

you wouldnt want to get a 99?


you can get a warranty even if the warranty has expired already?

 

stock for stock i like the way the m3 looks better and i'd feel more safe in long term ownership of that s54 than the 911 engine.

 

I'd have to say both engines are potential crap shoots. I know a very well cared for, low-mileage, S54 that went kaplooey even though it had its oil repeatedly tested and monitored. And at way less than the 126k miles my engine had when I broke what I believe was a single valve spring. The M3's also have a *host* of other issues as outlined by Bm3r. Either way you're looking at an out of warranty car and better have the pockets to pony up if they go south on ya. Replacing the 996 motor for the engine alone will run about 8k (ask me how I know). Although for that 8k you get the entire motor 'new' including injectors, fuel rail, power steering, alternator, etc etc. Essentially everything but the A/C compressor is brand spanking new and has a two year, unlimited mileage parts warranty. I doubt very seriously that the BMW replacement engines are that complete or include a two year unlimited mileage warranty. BTW, installation of the 996 motor is really really ridiculously easy. The shop manual says about 10 hours of shop time to R&R. I think that is very generous to the shop as my semi-amatuer self and a friend's tech pulled my old engine, installed a new flywheel, pressure plate, and clutch and replaced it in about 12 hours of work time.

I would however look at how the C4 is the same as the M3. Typically, that means that the C4 does not have that many options as the typical 911 is much better optioned by their owners than BMW does with the M3's. You might want to shop that a bit and see where you are on price and whether it really represents a good deal. The C4 is also more complicated mechanically due to the AWD system. It is also a bit heavier than a C2, again due to the AWD. The plus side is the wide rear end. Frankly, I'd look around and consider your 911 options.

Bottom line, get a 996 over an M3 unless you need the anonymity the M3 offers.

 

Both are cool cars and both have thier pros/cons, it really comes down to what you feel you will love driving. Thoroughly test drive several different cars of the types you want. Go from there. That's what I did, and decided on the 996 coming from previously owning two modified BMW's (E36 / E46).
I had no complaints about either BMW I owned. Damn good cars IMO.

I'd suggest an '02 996 due to the upgrades over the pre-2002 996, you should be able to find a clean / relatively low mileage 02 C2 for under $40k. I paid $37k for mine with 27k miles on it, I am the 2nd owner. No regrets.

Good luck on your hunt!

 

I have a 99 996 for sale that is in great condition. I am looking to sell quickly and I am asking only $27K. check out my add if you are interested.

http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail...eadExists=true