Hi All,

I am new to the list and as yet don’t have my Porsche, came very close this year but regret that I didn’t go for it. I have been reading with interest the discussions on them being used as daily drivers and want some feedback on what my situation is.
I moved to MN from the UK this summer and nearly bought my dream 2007 911 C2, I ended up not taking it and getting a Range Rover Sport instead thinking I needed a SUV for winter.
As time has passed I regret that more and more and think that the Porsche would have been fine (admittedly I haven’t done a full winter yet!), I take the view that cars are for driving and the Porsche was developed in Germany a market with plenty of sun, rain and snow!, so running it all year wont be an issue.

So my situation is, I live 5 miles form work and cycle most of the year and will drive probably Nov-Mar, will use the car for a few weekend trips ect, so around 5k miles a year, my questions are:

• Is only a 5 mile trip in MN winter in issue for a 911, interspersed with the odd longer drive?
• Is driving a 911 daily in MN winter going to be an issue?
• Do you just put snow tyres and rims on or need any further prep?
• I love the lines of a coupe, but with the great seasons we have here a cab would be great in the summer, any comments on a cab as a DD especially in winter?
• and finally, is an early 997 really worth more than a late 996?

Cheers

Ross

 

I would look at a C4 for that area, however many do drive a C2 with snow tires and have no problems.

As for the 997 vs 996, yes a 997 is a much better car in many ways, looks, performance, luxuries.

If you have the budget perhaps a Targa 4 would be a good fit for you.

 

You should have no problem in the snow if equipped with proper shoes. Separate winter wheel/tire package a must.

 

No car is good in a Minnesota winter... I have never been to a colder place in my life....

 

I drove an M3 all winter with snow tires. I think it is do able in a 911 with snows except when the snow is deep.

A c4 would be easier but I believe a C2 would be a lot of fun!

 

Michelin Pilot Alpins and you got a P-snowmobile!

 

Definitely second the C4(S) recommendation. With awd and dedicated snow tires (Nokian's are great) the only things that will impede your progress will be insufficient clearance and poor visibility. Just wait until the snowplow makes an initial pass and slow down a bit and you will be fine.

 

I live in central Minnesnowta and am on my second 911 snowmobile. My first was a 2003 996 C4 cab (with hardtop). I now drive a '09 C4S coupe. Both cars are great all year long. I have also owned multiple Jeeps and Audis. I currently also have an Audi Allroad that I use if the snow is > 5". With a separate set of wheels (18") and proper winter tires, the 911 is amazing in the winter. I was able to easily drive away from my 4WD Jeeps that had "All Season" SUV tires. The biggest danger with a winter tired 911 is the ability to stop WAY faster than the vehicles behind you. You must learn to pay close attention to the 4WD pickup trucks behind you that need 2 -4 times the stopping distance you do. You will probably enjoy a 911 MORE in the snow than in the summer!! I don't know if Porsche offers a hardtop option for the 997.2, but it was great for my 996. Surprisingly tight and rattle free all winter, yet I got to drive a cab in the summer. I now drive a coupe as my wife refused to take the cab :-( She thinks the 997.2 is amazing. You won't regret buying a 911 (DUH!) and the extra $ on an extra set of wheels and snow tires are REQUIRED but worth every penny!!
Enjoy!

 

Having just stepped up to a 997 from a 996, I can say there's no comparison. I liked my 996, but the 997 is a far better car.

I found the C2 996 to be just fine in the winter - with snow tires.

 

I second this very smart comment.

My only problems in the snow are ground clearance.

If I lived in Seattle, I'd buy AWD. Denver? RWD

 

If you are going with the AWD (which I think you should) go with the S. IMO with the added weight you would want the more powerful engine. I must admit though that I have never driven a C4.

 

My C4S performed flawlessly last winter here in Buffalo NY. I do have a set of dedicated snow tire/wheel setup and IMO it is a must for winter driving. For me C4 or C4S make sense for the snow country and if you have hills or elevated driveway to deal with, the AWD will prevent headache during heavy snow or icy condition.

John

 

Thanks to all who posted, I am probably more annoyed than before I posted. Why did I go for a RR Sport instead of a 911 3 months ago!
Oh well I will keep it for another 6 months then get a proper car

 

I am not a fan of the Range Rover but as long as you have it , and it's reliable I'd opt to keep it . It's one thing to dream of a 911 and in those moments most don't think of too many negatives .

From your current position it means taking a loss on a practical car to chase what you imagine a 911 to be. Don't get me wrong .. I love my Porsche and have owned 9 of them but it's not my daily driver in Mn .

Perhaps I'd suggest keeping the RR and with time buying a Cayman or Boxster (used) for summer --until BOTH cars age a bit --THEN opt for a new C4S after experiencing Mn after comparing the cars.