Now that 996TT prices have tanked to be even with what most of our S5's are worth, I'm wondering if anyone has considered or would consider hopping over to the iconic turbo P-car? I've lurked on this forum and Rennlist, and it looks like the 996TT was the most reliable and daily drivable model of the 996 range and maintenance is actually really reasonable since the motor was so overbuilt.

I realize it's not apples to apples since a trade-in would mean a step down in interior comfort and multimedia tech, but a big step up to supercar performance (esp with x50 package and/or mods), and I know a lot of S5 owners develop the performance itch after owning their car for a while.

It's probably also worth speculating that the 996TT value will level out at some point, whereas the S5 value will continue to drop as it becomes less of a "hot" car (esp since so many A5's are being sold now... 80%+ increase over the past month I've read)

Thoughts?

 

Yes. I'd do it in a minute.

 

S5 is a GT, 996 is a sportscar. Totally different animal.

 

That is a good point and very relevant since so far I've spent a pretty penny on coilovers, sway bar, and almost pulled the trigger on a BBK to make the S5 a better track performer -- I think for my particular needs, the Turbo might be a better platform than sinking more money into the S5. This will obviously vary from person to person.

 

coming out of a 996TT, I can say you need both. LOL... but on a serious note, there are only a handful of cars out there that will be on par with a nicely modded 996TT... but I'm not sure you need that type of power everyday.

 

True, but you might argue the 996/997 turbos are livable sports cars with GT characteristics (sure-footed and comfortable).

I can see the 996 value leveling (like the Cayman S marked seems to) and would be a great daily driven performer. I know you're looking at the 996 due to the market value, but how do you feel about the 996 looks vs 997? I was always a 993 fan, so I wasnt the biggest fan of the 996 progression, which the 997 has rectified.

You seem to enjoy taking your car to the track and having that added athleticism. For that reason, I'd go with the turbo. Your s5 is beautiful, but...its a turbo!

 

while the 996TT is an awesome car. if I had a S5 I would keep it cause I love the sound of the V8 with a exhaust and the interior of the S5 is hands down a lot better. the S5 is a more practical DD.

 

For a daily and a track car in one I'd go with a 997 GT3. Surprisingly livable. 996TT is an incredible buy for a fast car but not my cup of tea at all.

I can't imagine that an S5 will ever be a killer track weapon. Just too heavy and too much weight up front. I think they are one of the best looking cars you can buy both inside and out but not something I'd use on the track.

Why not keep the S5 and get a disposable, fun track car like a Miata?

 

Test drove a 996TT today. I'm getting even closer to jumping ship now that I've experienced it. I agree that it's a little removed from being a "raw" Porsche, but I'm looking for a fun daily driver, and the GT3 has just a few things like the price of the triple plate clutch which would keep me from wanting to put commuter miles on it.

Anyway -- here are the pics:





My impressions are that it's DEFINITELY more of a driver's car than the S5, and while the interior has a lot less amenities, I don't think it would be uncomfortable even for a long drive. I was surprised at just how small the storage space is, but it's not a deal breaker since my S5 is almost always completely empty. I just couldn't lug around 3 people's luggage.

 

The attributes of both cars are well known. Only you can decide what you want in a daily driver. They are apples and oranges.

 

I have an '03 4S......In the summer I drive to a second home that is 3 hours away.........it's not a long drive in a Porsche.......it's a fun drive....

 

if it was a gt3 rs than yes lol
i wouldnt, s5 is one of the best looking cars out there