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YOUR RESEARCHRecommendation for 996 year to purchase
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Replace without saving ~$900
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Don't buy any '98-'01 that hasn't gotten the RMS replaced without saving ~$900 for that repair.
Leading evidence: 'Replace without saving ~$900' (no explicit attributable resolution; this is a reported action or suggestion). Across 1 matching discussions, The most frequently discussed action is 'Replace without saving ~$900' (1 discussions). For that action, 0 discussions report a resolution and 0 report an unsuccessful attempt. No action has an explicit, attributable resolution report under the current rules. These are forum reports and suggestions, not a confirmed diagnosis.
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I am looking to buy a low mileage 996 and wondered if there is any one year that is either very good or very bad. Obviously the 99's are the least expensive. Is there any major diff in the 99 vs newer ones? I am looking for a C2. I apologize in advance if this has been previously discussed as I don't have time to search right now. Gotta make a quick decision on a 99 4 sale. Thanks,
https://rennlist.com/forums/996-forum/414586-the-ultimate-preowned-996-buying-guide.html
It's the first topic in this forum. It has all the info you need.
LOL, Patrick E. I see we have similar interest in cars. I have an 02 C4S and I had a 05 Audi S4.
I would definitely buy 02 or newer. Get a ppi regardless.
+1!! Get the NEWEST you can afford, try and buy from private. Get a CPO car or find a good extended warranty company. ...and for the love of all that is holy, GET A PPI!!!
if you can afford '02+, do it. Facelift, bigger engine, fewer reliability problems. But don't be afraid of the earlier models, just be aware, do your research, and get a PPI.
Don't buy any '98-'01 that hasn't gotten the RMS replaced without saving ~$900 for that repair. The likelihood of needing the RMS replacement on '98-'01 996 is nearly 100%.
From the sales '02 brochure: ...headlight system derived from the 911 Turbo. More discreet is the careful reshaping of the front and rear fenders, bumpers and air dam. The result is 25% less lift in the front and 40% less lift at the rear for improved high speed stability.... Reinforcements to the body structure have resulted in a 25% increase in torsional rigidity for crisper response and enhanced agility. The standard 17" wheels weigh almost eight pounds less than the previous design, while the optional 18" wheels are lighter by over 24 pounds. The front air ducts have been reshaped to increase the flow of cooling air to the radiators by 15%"
You also get 20 more HP, a glove box, better cup holders and a glass rear window in the cab. I test drove a number of cars and spent a few $$ more for an '02. You could definitely tell the difference when you drive them back to back.
Looking at purchasing at 2003 c4s and a 2005 c4s. the 03 has 39k miles and the 05 has 9,500 miles. are the cars different or same stock. there's such a saving in price for the 03, but wasn't sure if the model years are really different?
Mark... Noticed you have asked the same question a few times while resurrecting a few very old threads. I appreciate your enthusiasm but....
BTW...MY03 C2's are the best (provided they are Red cabs!)
Just my opinion - I love the headlights on the 01 - most ppl don't - make your list a try to tick off as many boxes as possible - mine was
6 speed man
silver or gray -
no s or sports demotions of any kind - smallest stock engine
18" wheels
black leather int
no white gauges
no navi
never wrecked
low miles
1 owner
all original
history with documentation
no engine noises - I hate even 1 ticking lifter
electronics all work
HID lights
no convertible
So - when min e came along - it was a convertible - finally I went to look at bc it had a top - and I bought it
This is a source reference. Confirm exact model applicability in the original material.
