996 Turbo or 997 s

Hi Im interested in views from people that have knowledge of these cars. I am looking to purchase a used 996 Turbo 2001 -2004 or a 997 s 2005-2006. sort of 30k - 35k. What is everyone's views on the running costs, performance, reliablity and preference of both cars. I owned a 996 C4 on a 02 plate a couple of years ago, sadly had to sell it to keep my business going, but now things are back on track looking for something with a bit more go!. I would appreciate any views. Thanks Martin

They have a completely different feel. I have a 996T and my nephew, who shares our office, has a 997 C2S. The 996T is explosive, and huge fun, whilst being practical enough to get away with as a daily drive. The 997S is a great car, and very civilised and more up-to-date. The ride quality is way better. Adrenalin rush or highly refined 911. Your choice, but you need to drive both to decide.

996 Turbo of 997CS I'm pretty decided on this. The 996turbo is more iconic, more of a classic 911. As great as Carrera's are, they're not going to have the same 'special' allure in the future. Ridiculously, for such magnificant cars, and you can blame the Porsche community for this, their always going to be seen as the 'entry level' 911. You can argue about it all day but the turbo is, for most road drivers, Stuttgarts ultimate machine. (track machines and lightweights are another category). The turbo is THE Porsche supercar for the road. Always has been. Plus, to my eyes, the 996 turbo is incredibly beautiful. That wide body, those shark eye headlights.. It has increible road presence. Especially from the back. The 997 Carrera is a bit bland to me, the front lights look like they've been borrowed from a Mini and that weird shut line along the top of the rear bumper section looks odd. Plus, you say you want more go. Turbo all the way. FYOG

I had this dilemna when I started looking. Newer 997 or older turbo? I preferred the 997 looks and interior but a turbo, regardless of vintage, is, well, a turbo. I knew I'd always regret not going for more power and if I got bored then more is on tap at relatively cheap outlay. Decision was made and I was right. Practical everyday performer but absolutely phenomenal performance. You won't realise till you drive one.

Re: 996 Turbo of 997CS Apart from the GT1 and 993GT2's the 996GT2 and TT's are increasingly becoming sought after. As time passes the appearance/stance of the GT2 and TT is becoming an "agggressive 911 supercar classic". Another superb looking/sounding car is the 996C4S coupe :thumb: Just do the usual pre-purchase checks and you can't go far wrong with a good 996TT GEN1 PCCB's shod cars can have disc issues, so pay particular attention to these cars.

Can't really make a comparison for you but my advice would be 996TT. When I eventually upgrade that's the way i'll be going.

Well I would always for for a 997 as I like the looks and interior but a 997 Turbo is my next target !!!! but :thewife: will kill me.... Theo

Thanks for all your replies, is their anything I should know or look out for buying a turbo with say 50-60k on the clock. Am I right in thinking that a X50 version is 450bhp and and a turbo S is 480bhp and would I be able to pick one up for 30-35k?. Thanks

I've owned ten 911s over the years and without doubt its the Turbos that I really remember. The nature of the power delivery is totally addictive and to be honest although I currently have a 996 cab I can't wait to get another one. The 997 is brilliant but the turbo is really a totally different car. It also has the benefit of hving a different (and much better basic engine design with none of the problems that have dogged the 996 and to a lesser degree the 997 unit (which until gen2 are basically the same) Get the Turbo. If you dont you will always wonder and regret not doing so each time you see one on the road.

997 C2S until your business really takes off -------then 997 Turbo!!! :thumb:

Hi, im still looking for a Porsche - an iconic one - TT! (Or GT2 - the longer it goes without the right TT - the more stash i have to blow!!) X50 is 450, S as far as I am aware is the same engine wise but does have the PCCB's (yellow calipers) a few cars have the 'S' badge. Different seats were cost options i believe. Traditional fully electric / heated jobs and they the hard backed items with 'wings' (my preference - unless I find one of the rare ones with GT2/3 seats!) Remapped cars have similar power whatever the spec (490 v's 505-510 maybe) but X50 have a bit more torque but a touch mroe laggy. (I think!) thats the extent of my knowledge - and it may be mosly bull poo!

An interesting early ultra-low mileage Turbo here: http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1485824.htm I like the plate too!

yep - agreed. not sure about Rims but everything else is V. attractive!

996 turbo all the way..had a 997 c2s whilst mine was in for some warranty work and i couldnt wait to give it back..it was fresher inside and much more refined, but the buzz and grin factor from the turbo is unbeatable i wish i could keep mine forever

That RUF is a nice car, until you look at that dismal interior. Does that matter? yes I think it does :nooo: you spend an awfull amount of time looking at it. Personally I will wait until the 997 turbo comes down a bit, a much better proposition longer term. Having said that I could not blame you for choosing a 996 now.