3.4 - 3.6

Hey Fellas, Long time lurker, getting close to pulling trigger on a 996. I was wondering if you guys and gals were of the opinion that a 02/3.6 is at least marginally more reliable than the 996.1 in the RMS and engine failure department. It is my impression that a 996.2 is thought of as an mechanical improvement, not that the vast majority of both cars are not sound vehicles.

we don't know

I see just as many failures, just of different modes.. The 3.6 is hard on cranks and rear main bearings where the 3.4 has cylinder failures and IMS issues.. All are created equal.

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So if I'm not going to tracking the vehicle, which demon is more likely to rear its head? I'm just trying to confirm advice that a dealer mechanic made in that if given the option, choose a 996.2 to avoid the catastrophic incidents that have plagued some owners. We're talking basic C2 if it helps the discussion. IMS doesnt really scare me because a new clutch is an eventuality in any car if owned long enough.

IMS and RMS are different issues dude. RMS leak (rear main seal) can be solved during clutch service. IMS failure (intermediate shaft) is catastrophic. With all else equal (and they're not really since 996.2 will cost you more) the 996.2 is a more desirable car. 20 more hp, variocam plus gives you more torque earlier, interiors are a bit nicer, headlight and bumper style is subjective but the 996.2 is generally accepted as being more desirable. All in all, I stretched to a 3.6 model both times that I bought one. I paid a $5K premium for a 2002 against an otherwise equivalent 1999. Just my opinion.

There is an axiom that the latest 911 is the best 911. The rationale is that with each model year Porsche engineers evolve the previous design keeping what is good and improving what is not. That being said, there are no guarantees. Better doesn't mean fail safe. Personally I would favor the Mk II 3.6L if your budget can swing it.

Agree with all the above. Remember, the thing you are paying for here, the thing of value, is the joy of driving it. The 3.6 is slightly better at that (most people would agree). That value is not determined by what your post is looking at (i.e. those rare occasions when either car may be undriveable). The delta between the two models' failure probabilities isn't significant enough to be a decision-driver. Rather, you should focus on which car you enjoy driving more... and if that's too close to call just get the 3.6.

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Glad to see you "slum" over here with us. Not sure if everyone knows who you are, but Google should fix that! Not to hijack this thread, but have you seen different failure rates on cars with aftermarket forced induction (3.4 or 3.6)? A supercharger is on my to-do list -td

My choice would be a '99 with a 3.4 factory replacement motor. Updated IMS, latest RMS, sleeve issues addressed, Limited slip Diff, mechanical throttle, lighter chassis. These seem to have better throttle response and feel faster. In reality the acceleration may be equal, but "feel" means a lot.

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That was my plan, and I even found a likely candidate with a new engine but no LSD. He wanted $21K minimum. Then a 3.6 came up with a new(ish) engine at $26K so I had to do it. Nothing wrong with the strategy above though.

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I'll echo the same position but I'm biased. I'll also add that with the inclusion of an LSD the 99 also has a completely defeat able traction control where the MK II Cars have PSM which does not turn off (completely). While most people will not ever have an issue with it, for performance driving, I like no drivers aids. It leaves me free to rotate the car to my hearts content. In the Mk II even with PSM off, it will step in to "correct" you if you exceed a certain slip angle and engage the brakes.

^^^^^ didnt know that.... Where's the fun in that I dont need no stinking correction.... I was planning that spin!!!!

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Only the last ten years, grasshopper

Re: PSM on the 3.6 cars... keep in mind PSM was just an OPTION. Not all the 3.6 cars have PSM. My '03 doesn't for example. E-gas, however, was standard on all cars from '00-on I believe, although they improved the feel of it over the years.