Cabrio - Carrera 2 or 4?

Morning all, I'm considering a 996 cabrio (facelifted 3.6) as my next daily driver. The car will be used all year round and I'm not sure if I should go for a carrera 2 or 4. I have a Caterham in the garage that I'll be keeping as I couldn't bear to sell it. As I understand it the carrera 4 weighs around 70kg more than the Carrera 2 and has a smaller front boot. Also has more parts to maintain of course. the upside is better traction in slippery conditions. Is there much difference in the handling? For got to add that the car will have a manual gearbox. Tried the 'tip and hated it. Any advice gratefully received. Thanks and all the best. Martin.

I had a 996 cab 4 until relatively recently. Excellent car. Why not pop over to the 996 Register and look at the running reports? That might help.

IMO a C2 (with PSM if you wanted added security) has nicer handling. But, the actual 'real world' difference between the two is hardly noticeable - best to buy the nicest example you can find, whether C2 or C4.

I am now on to my 2nd cab 4 and have loved both, 1st was a tiptronic, second a manual. The best thing about them is the fantastic road holding. and if you live in the far reaches of the north as I do the reassurance of the 4 wheel drive in winter is definitely worth having! The boot isn't massive and for me is the biggest sacrifice for having the 4 wheel drive. But i guess its a matter of personal preference really.

I have a C4 and have driven many a C2, my C4 has always felt more planted than the C2s I have driven especially in the wet. However I think that most would find a C2 with PSM (it's an extra) and a C4 (PSM standard fitment) will not be that different on a daily driving basis. You might have more fun on the track with a C2 (with PSM off) though. DJ

I am the proud owner of a C2 Cab in stunning Guards Red. For the shere enjoyment of owning a Porsche, the most important feature is not whether 2 or 4 wheel drive, but the condition and service history. There is little to choose in everyday driving. Good luck with your search. Image

As a car to use all year round, the C4 is unlikely to disappoint. Traction on wet/greasy roads is phenomenal. It is probably generally accepted that a C2 offers a slightly purer experience and handles more sweetly but when I drive mine, I get out with a grin on my face, I don't get out thinking I wish the car was a bit sharper. As a car to use everyday, compared to pretty much any modern Merc/BMW/Audi I have driven, the 996 is a whole new world (although rather differrent to your Caterham)! The predictable advice is to buy on condition, pedigree and history. The boot capacity on the C4 is not great but I'm not sure how much more usable space you get with a C2. Good luck in finding a nice one that you like.

Aside from the C2/C4 debate, are you aware that the rear seats in the cab are more compromised than the coupe?

Oliver, Yes I'm aware of the difference in the back seats. As an all rounder the cabrio seems to tick all the boxes and for only a very small premium (if any!) over the coupe.

I would agree with most of the comments. Go for the best history, best condition and don't think to much whether 2 or 4. Just go for it and enjoy......