996 Purchase Question

Hi All, Still shopping for the right 996. Question: Any major benefits / drawbacks to owning all wheel drive (Carerra 4) over RWD model? Thanks, Kirk

Where do you live? Will you be driving the car all year round? Are you considering a 4S (which has a lot of nice standard features the regular C2 and C4 don't)? Do you think the DOW will hit 12K this year?

Heavier then a C2, smaller trunk... I would only get one if this is your DD and you drive in the snow.

Agree with above. Also, if you are into performance or the track, get the C-2. If you need the widebody look, get the 4S

Thanks for replies. I live in CA, SF Bay Area and do not need AWD for any particular reason. Since I am buying used, I may find "perfect" car and it could be a Carerra or Carerra 4. Just didn't know if there were any particular mechanical issues with the 4. I would prefer lighter weight and simplicity ( can I say that?) of RWD model. And to Riad regarding the Dow, I am a stockbroker, and you post an interesting question. I predict 11.8, but towards the end of 06. Wait a minute, just turned over another Tarot Card, make that 11.75. Kirk

The Porsche AWD cars feel heavier than their 2 WD brothers. Some like the feeling of stability. I didn't like it and went the other direction.

That's funny. If you're not driving the car in inclement weather, the only thing to look at would be the C4S. The C4S in my opinion was the best value, best looking 996 they produced. The wide body, turbo look nose, rear wrap around reflector, full leather interior, turbo brakes (I think the suspension is different than the turbo, don't remember) but you get the idea. Good luck, and remember buy low sell high.

Although I don't drive mine in the winter I have taken it out a few times in the snow. It goes good and would go even better with Blizzaks. I would not get a 4Wd because the 2WD is lighter and faster and there is more trunk room. These cars have plenty of traction with 2WD why add the complication.

Only because the 4WD C4S is just so much better looking in my opinion. Both are great - it's all in what you like. Being a first time P-car owner, I went with the 4WD in part because I love the stability of the setup. Phil

Seeing your in California, I would spend the money you save on not getting a C4, on changing out the suspension and other mods on a C2. I was about to bail out of the stock market in the second week of this month. I have this strange feeling of doom comming soon, like under 10K. Or maybe it's the real estate market about to explode? I'll check with my confederates in the parallel universe and get back. Tom L 2002 C2

I have a C4 (narrow body). Living in downtown Chicago parking is an issue for me: one garage spot = only one car. The 4wd makes it an incredible daily driver, even in the snow. I still can't get over how well it preforms in the snow with Blizzaks. However, given that you are in CA I would defiantly consider the C2 for trunk space if not price / availability.

I completely agree with this statement! My C4 with Blizzaks is one of the best cars that I have ever driven in a Chicago winter.

I live in Chicago and still chose the C2 over the C4 and C4S (even with the weather). My primary reasons were; - Weight (C2 is lighter) - Steering feel (C2 has more feel) - Understeer (C2 has less) - Overall Driving feel (I like the C2 more)......all in my personal opinion of course However, I will admit I did strongly consider the C4S for it's nice enhanced rear. Don't misunderstand, I think the "4's" are great cars I just liked the "2" better (actually, I like the GT3 best). I'm glad Porsche offers the choice because obviously others feel just as strongly about their "4's". Drive both before you buy. Good luck with your choice!! Plus with the "winters" on, the C2 works great in the snow!