I'm trading in my Audi S4 this week for a 997 911. This is going to be a daily driver and will see 6-10 track days this summer. I can get a used 997 Carrera for about $35K and a CS for about $45. I'm wondering if I would be better suited buying the Carrera and putting the $10K difference into track wheels/tires, coilovers and cage. How many of you track guys found it necessary to fit a front BBK? What wheel and tires sizes are people running? I was planning on buying 18" 9"F 12"R forgestars and running toyo r888s until I'm more comfortable with the car... any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

I went with a C2 and put the money into suspension. Ill let you know if it was a good decision as soon as I get the car back.

 

If you were not going to track the car I would say the C2S would be the better choice if you have the money to spend. Since you will end up moding the car the extra cost may not be worth it depending on your actual mod list.

 

If you have the budget for it, definitely the 'S' models, it's nearly impossible to add additional hp on the Porsches w/o spending over your initial cost of getting an 'S'. You can never be too fast on the track. If you think about the bigger brakes, more hp, and more standard options on the S, it's an easy choice.

 

I drove several of both "S" and "non-S" before I bought my car, and decided that I had to have the "S". In the used market, the difference is minimal for what you're getting. The PASM is stiff enough for track use until you start getting to the point where you need a dedicated track car, and with the sport mode off, the suspension is comfortable on the street. The brakes are also remarkably good on the S. They handle track sessions with ease - they don't fade, the rotors are still straight, and they STOP!

And as other's have pointed out in the past, you'll always wonder if you should have done it if you don't. Just try to find a 2006 or newer and avoid any potential IMS issues with the 2005's.

 

This is pretty much what I was looking for... Stock brakes/suspension on the S are good enough for track duty. So, one could infer that lap times are going to be pretty much the same on a stock CS vs a Carrera with coilovers and BBK assuming both are on the same rubber?

This is helpful, thanks. I was leaning toward the C2S coupe in the first place but they are few and far between under $50k, at least within 200 miles of Philly.

 

50K is high unless you are looking for a 2008 or so. You could get a 2006-07 for around 45k if you dont mind a few miles. The miles make the price jump drastically no matter what year you are looking at.

 

In that budget and type of use I hate to say it, but I would look at Cayman S for sure.

Just my 2 cents

 

Yeah a Cayman S would be a great option as well!!

 

Do you mind elaborating on why? I've driven both, the cayman seemed a little cramped to me... I'm 6'1" 200 lbs. 911 is also pretty much my dream car

 

I think a Carrera in that price range will have pricey maintenance coming up and you could not get a 997.2 so IMS problems could occur. My opinion is I would stick with a Cayman S 2009 or newer with a lot less miles, maybe even a CPO. When your budget is a little higher upgrade to a 911. If it is your Dream Car go for it. I originally was set on a Boxster S and went for a 911, but I raised my budget to do so.

 

I started my search with your budget. Fear/hype over potential IMS and oil starvation issues led me up to getting a 997.2 and put the "S" model above what I wanted to spend on this car.

That said part of me always wanted to get the S, but this is my first 911 and its ample for my street needs. If I ever decide to track, things might change but with being a weekend toy I'm perfectly happy with my decision as well as knowing that the DFI engine avoids risk of IMS failure. Also a 997.2 base is only 10hp shy of a 997.1S. I don't miss the other goodies since I don't track.

 

Get the most recent model year you can afford. Get 2006 or newer. Get a good PPI , drive the car stock, use MPSS tires till you get the track bug and then do whatever time and budget allows. Figure in track insurance for your DE outings in your budget. Just my 0.02c

 

This all depends on what you are willing to pay for. It wont be THAT hard to get a 2006/07 C2S CPO for under 50k. I would expect to have roughly 30-40k on the clock. It wont be a beauty queen but its very doable.

As for the IMS issue, it really doesnt happen that often. And From what I have read it doesnt seem to ever happen past 2005.

Carnut12 do you own a 911? I dont want to be rude but you seem to have written this more as a fan than as an owner.

 

DO NOT GET A CAYMAN. 911 is your dream car get that. Work your way up later if need be. When I'm driving and a Porsche catchs my eye I'm always disappointed when I find it's a Cayman. Imagine feeling that everyday. 911 has the storied history and is developed over 50 years. It's the pinnacle. Don't sell yourself short. Get the 911 and you'll thank yourself everyday.