Teach me about '03 C4S

I'm not too well versed in 996's, but my neighbor just bought an '03 C4S and doesn't know much about them either, so we're curious- -Is this a dry-sump engine, or is it the same engine used in all non-turbo 996's? (IIRC, there was something about engines in certain models that Porsche changed in '02 or '03.) -There is a button for what seems to be a sport exhaust mode- does that also change the suspension to a sport mode? -Other than the Turbo body, brakes, suspension (M030?) and wheels, what else is substantially different from the standard Carrera? -Any other interesting features or options on this model? Paid $32K on this nicely kept car with 67,000 miles- good deal?

-Is this a dry-sump engine, or is it the same engine used in all non-turbo 996's? (IIRC, there was something about engines in certain models that Porsche changed in '02 or '03.) Same engine as all NA 996. Porsche calls it an "integrated dry sump" The change in '02 is when the 3.4 was replaced with the 3.6 -There is a button for what seems to be a sport exhaust mode- does that also change the suspension to a sport mode? Nope, it only changes the sound of the exhaust. If it was installed at the factory, there is a speed sensor that will quiet the exhaust between 30 -50 automatically to comply with certain EU city noise restrictions. -Other than the Turbo body, brakes, suspension (M030?) and wheels, what else is substantially different from the standard Carrera? The interior has the full leather as standard, memory seats (if you don't have the sports seats) and it's the only 996 to have the iconic rear reflector strip. Think of the C4S as a lighter 996Turbo: same body/chassis, suspension (calibrated to the lighter weight), brakes, interior, but without the turbo engine and it's extra 100 ponies . -Any other interesting features or options on this model? No two Porsche come off the assembly line exactly the same, so it depends on how yours was spec'd out originally. Paid $32K on this nicely kept car with 67,000 miles- good deal? some guys on this forum will tell you that you paid too much and others will say you paid too little. Depends on the condition and fully documented history of the car. Regardless of the naysayers, the 996 C4S is the best looking of the series and many many articles have been written in the EU Porsche mags that this is the one model likely to become a classic and more desirable in the future; even more so than the 996 TT. Enjoy your great purchase!

The '03 has the MOST bus, so any stereo/nav/ipod upgrades are a big headache and/or expense. It was a good deal if the wear items were all relatively recent. This is true. The C4S didn't get much attention here in the shadow of the TT, but was adored in Europe for its balance. In 2002, the 996 C4S came a close second in EVO's Car of the Year.

Thanks, guys. What are the known maintenence weaknesses or problem areas- RMS, other leaks, electrical problems, etc?

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By far the most reliable car I've ever owned. Warranty visits I can count on one hand: RMS x2, Audio amp, key head, squeaky window. My car is almost 3 years out of warranty and nothing has needed attention (other than regular maintenance since). It is used as my daily driver (year round), does a few track days a year and is either a top finalist or a winner in its class at the local PCA concours.

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Others will/have deal with the first questions but my advice on the last one: "good deal?; is to never ever attempt to do price research *after* you have bought a car. You only torture yourself. Once I buy a car I seek to avoid price comparisons and input from helpful souls who seem to always know of a same or better example car for a lot less money. Don't play this game. You can't win. Sure, no one (well almost no one) gets the best deal ever on a car, but if the deal suited you or your friend at the time that's all that matters. Tell your neighbor to enjoy the car. Porsche makes nice cars! Sincerely, Macster.

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Here are some known "issues" which may eventually need to be replaced: RMS Coolant overflow cap may leak Coolant overflow tank will probably crack Ignition switch may wear out Light switch may wear Fortunately most are relatively minor, cost wise, to replace.