A newbie here. Just became Porscheless last week and am having withdrawals, man. I am trying to decide between 997S (maybe 4S) and 996 Turbo or maybe a 40th annv. because of the relative exclusivity. What's your take? Cake is non factor... It's never been a better buyer's market and I've got enough budgeted. But Performance is important here. Not many could keep up with me in my Boxster through the twisties, but it always lacked straight line oomph to dust the heel nippers that could stay close in the curves. Loved that car though. Hard to beat mid engine placement but I have always wanted a 911. It's time. thanks in advance.

 

I had a 996 C4 before the 996 Turbo and all I can say is the Turbo is like Crack to me. I just can't get enough of the boost. It is addictive. So do not drive the TT unless you are prepared to buy it. Unless you don't like a fast car. My 2 cents. Oh, I have not missed the C4 for a day.

Best of luck with whatever you decide

 

If one of your factors is cabin design you'll go for the 997S. I went from a 986 Boxster S a few years back. Looked into a 996 but it (cabin-wise) felt like the Boxster. The 997 cabin has a more contemporary and refined look.

On the other hand the 'thrust' of a TT is hard to beat. For me the 997S had enough 'performance' for what I wanted it for.

Consider the warranty period as well. You'll most likely not find a 996 Turbo with much (if any) warranty left. It's nice to have that umbrella for at least the first 6 months of ownership.

In any event good luck on your decision and ultimate purchase.

 

For me, when I shop for car it's not all about straight line speed. That's why the Z06 Vet wasn't a consideration or other cars. It's about the total package to me. I like the new design and available warranty on the 997. It's all about what's most important to you. If you always wanted a turbo, and specifically a porsche turbo then I would go for it; it should be a great car if you buy it from a good source. I'm not sure what the reliablity on the turbo are though.

BTW, the prices on the 996 turbo should be less than the 997s.

 

As for my short list of Porsche experience, 87 Carrera, 98 Boxster, 00 996 C2 Cab, 02 996TT (stage 2), to a 08 997 Targa 4S. There is no question the TT had the most awesome forced induction thrust, but the refinement of the 997 is just second to none. I don't miss the TT power over the 997.
I would go for the 997S over the TT in my opinion (but as always, it all depends on what YOU are looking for)
Good luck,
the best part is "looking" for the right car!!- because once you settle, you start to look all over again!!

 

How much you want to spend? If you can swing 85-90 I'd get a 07 997 TT low mileage.

 

997tt!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

i do not like 996 interior and exterior.. so would be 997 for me..the 997 brings back memories of the 993 i grew up seeing as a kid.. the 996 looks like the stepchild more related to boxter than previous 911's

 

I would take the 996 turbo. I have the 997 cab but my father had the 996 turbo a while ago and it's more fun. the 997 is absolutly good but the Turbo boost makes me laugh of exitment every time I put my foot down.

 

Personally, I would pick only the most radically modded 996 turbos over a 997.

 

if you plan on doing any mods, the 996 TT is the way to go- very mod friendly with plenty of products available.

I'm obviously biased but the acceleration trumps interior refinement...

 

997s^^

 

I would pass on the 996tt just for the headlights alone . Besides the lack of aesthetic appeal the xenon light theives can pop them out on less than 5 minutes . It does have power but also has lag and it takes thousands to mod the car right .

The 997S has a better body structure , plenty of seamless acceleration , warranty and CPO availability and is really the better car and value . Unless your goal is high speed runs the 997S is the way to go .

If you must have a Turbo -then get the 997tt .

 

I faced this dilemma in November and went with an 06 997 S and couldn't be happier.

Other than have less HP, the 997 is a better car IMHO. Better interior fit and finish; better exterior front end; warranty. But that's one man's opinion.

 

I considered both as well. Drove the 996TT and the 997S within an hour of each other and went with the 997S. It's a bit slower but I preferred the superior suspension, handling, exterior design, modern interior and having the CPO warranty.