Best Used 996 MY

I'm doing my homework for deciding about first purchase of a used Porsche 911 and my reading has me leaning to the 996. PCA and other published literature seem to hone in on the 2002-2005 C4S and now asking the community who own the 996 for their opinion. I appreciate your POV and thank you in advance for responding.

my 3 favorite 996s based on being part of this forum for a little over a year & 15,000 miles: - 996.1 aero coupe: collectible long term, no frills driver's car with classic lines that are starting to appreciate - 996.2 c2 coupe: driver's car below 3,000lbs with 315-320bhp. Don't worry so much about mileage since they're not likely to appreciate any time soon. - 996.2 C4S coupe: awd, turbo brakes & suspension, widebody looks, typically well optioned relative to C2s. Slightly heavier but faster around the track b/c of stance+brakes+susp. It's all about what you value personally. GL

Personally I prefer the C2 as more of a pure 911. Lighter and more mechanically simple than the C4S, also better use of the same HP. If I were wanting a widebody I would buy a Turbo instead of a C4S, then you have the HP to push all 4 wheels and use the suspension benefits, plus with a turbo you get the Metzger engine, much more bulletproof than the M96. You are correct that the 996.2 has some mechanical bugs improved from the 996.1 but both can be good reliable cars and both require significant maintenance to keep them tip top. But as stated above drive both and buy what you like.

exthree: I have a 2005 996 C4S purchased in 2014. I love it but have no other personal Porsche ownership to compare it to. The looks, wide body, is one thing that sold me. I don't track it so could care less if it is slower or faster than a C2. Keep in mind the AWD is NOT like the AWD in an SUV. It's designed more for cornering advantages than plowing through snow. Having said that, there are folks here who do drive in the snow, I'm not one of them. There can be mechanical issues with these cars and it can be relatively expensive to repair, but the youngest 996's are 12 year old so expected! Repair expenses can be softened if you do some of your own work. Many things can be easily done by those with minor mechanical skills. Read the forums, but keep in mind there are some "the sky is falling" types. Let's be realistic, people who are happy with their cars don't always get on forums to say that. Many come with problems looking for help, me included. Look around, drive some examples as per Nick above. Decide which you like, get a good pre-purchase inspection and ask for history receipts. I'm told this is entering the "good time" to buy as prices drop in the fall. Good luck and comeback to ask questions. There are good people here.

I love the added looks and style of the C4S. I love the basicness of my C2. I would have been just as happy if I found a C4S in a variant I liked. It really comes down to personal taste and what YOU want.

Stay away from the used 996's - there are so many new cars out there to choose from, it doesn't even make sense to start messing about with the lesser vehicles. Brown & McFly have been meeting my new 996 needs for decades. Highly recommend. They have crap taste in domestics, though. It was the talk of the town when my '98 got delivered back in '87.

My 02 C4S is a blast to drive and the PSE system really changes the sound. But mine has been a nightmare to maintain, from headlight switch to scored cylinders, I've experienced EVERY common failure for this car. I'm currently looking at replacing the door latch on the passenger side....while it's an easy DIY (I've done that window regulator twice now so can pretty much get the doors apart with my eyes closed) it's still a $300+ part. Porsche tax is a real thing. I used to have 1 savings account I'd move money to every pay for car maintenance costs. That covered 3 to 4 cars. Porsche has its own now.

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I think you're finding out there are as many opinions on this as there are people. Personally I would decide whether you want AWD or not (drive C4 and C2 both and see how they feel), and decide whether you like the .1 styling or .2 styling the best (mostly just different headlights, but there are some other key differences). Then find the best, most well-maintained and well-documented example of your particular favorite, in the color you like the best. For me, I prefer the early headlights, and I did not like the added weight and complexity of AWD, so I got a 2001 C2; the last year of the .1 configuration, so presumably the best of that world. Realistically all of these are just old used cars at this point. None of them are guaranteed to be any more reliable than any other, so I'd say just find the best combination of a car you'll love to own and a car the previous owner[s] have taken very good care of.

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I like the C4S and if my budget allowed I would have bought one. However if I had the first thing I would do after the clutch/AOS/IMS etc would be to remove the FWD system and revert back to RWD.

whats your budget for the car? can you wrench on it yourself or will you be taking it in? Whats your budget for maintenance/wear items?

'99 C2 is the purest 996 drivers car you will find. It's the quickest, lightest, most nimble, and no nannies. The early '98 builds are basically a 993 with more a powerful engine as far as feel and engagement go. But it really comes down to what is important to you? A C4S looks great but so does a '99 w/aero kit. I will argue that the '99's are the quickest 996 around the track and I've got anecdotal data (if there is such a thing) to back it up.

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All good replies from 996 forum members, and I'm learning a lot about the 996. My purchase budget is about $25K for a 2002-2005. I am handy but don't normally do maintenance on my vehicles. After reading thread replies I'd be prepared to spend $2,500/year on maintenance/repairs/parts.

If you are looking for future value you have better chance with C4S because of the lower build numbers compared to narrow body. In June 17 Excellence Magazine, aka about Porsche's stated the 2002 and up cars especially C4S would have the biggest upside in future if the values do go up. I mean the Turbo of course but the cost difference is immense compared to clean C4S

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I read the article and it gave serious, realistic scenario to inspecting, buying and owning a 996. It's info. that I need so TY for recommending!

I've got a '98 build C2 and love it. Would I enjoy the turbo more? Maybe. But for my needs (street car only, live in a mountainous area with awesome roads) it's perfect. No nannies and a pure driving experience.

find a 2005 C4S! that way, anytime you go to a car show - some guy will walk up and ask you what year - and when you say 2005, this guy will tell you that you are wrong and Porsche only made the 996 up to 2004 and that you must be an idiot for not knowing the year of your car...... its tons of fun

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In fairness I think if you're looking for future value you'd better find a low-mileage example, put it in a plastic bubble, and tuck it in an air-conditioned garage. I personally think treating a car you actually drive as an investment is pretty dumb. There's a reason we keep money in safes and banks instead of in our pockets, and we don't walk around carrying our valuables with us at all times. Stuff that gets used gets wrecked and loses value. Anyway, maybe your car will appreciate, and that's great, but if the main reason you're buying something is for it's future value, I don't think it should be a car that you're going to drive on public roads with all the hazards that entails.

Iko: That is pretty funny, isn't it!? Appreciation?? Who cares? I put my money in investment opportunities and that is risky at best. It's a car...drive it...enjoy it...if value goes up...plus! If value doesn't go up...enjoy it.

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I wouldn't have known that w/o your reply. Thank you for the heads' up! /x3

The HEALTHIEST sample (engine, exterior/interior, trans, etc.) with the features you want AND CAN AFFORD.......is THE BEST 996 you can/will/should buy. The MY becomes inconsequential IMHO. Finding one is the challenge.

I've been that idiot before in a thread. Luckily it's buried into the depths of oblivion by now.

I don't want to scare you - but $2500 is probably a low estimate for maintenance and repairs, especially if you're not going to do it yourself. A new set of tires alone will eat through nearly half that (or more than half if you go with a C4S). Throw in a few oil changes and just one extra thing is going to go over. I've heard people on here generally recommend 5k as a 'uh oh' fund. To help ease the shock, make sure you pay attention to the maintenance records of the cars you're looking at. Things to keep an eye out for are engine mounts, clutch, AOS, water pump, tires and brakes. Avoiding having to do those repairs yourself will save you THOUSANDS. Good luck with your search - you should be able to find a really nice 996 in your price range!

If you're already decided on an 02-05, why ask which year/model is best? The cognoscenti pretty much decided that the early build cars(98, early 99) before the fire at the factory are the one's to have. C4S is a good looking car, but you might as well go turbo then, if you aren't going to wrench it, get the latest you want, and just pay the freight. If you want to keep it up yourself, the early build C2 is a steal under $18k.

Sub'd. Been looking at an 03 C4S myself. But want a Turbo if I find one at a good price.

If $25k was my budget, I'd be looking for a '02-'04 C2 with under 50k miles, with the options you desire (full leather, PSE, etc). Some people prefer to spend less up front for a higher mileage car and use the savings for maintenance. Myself, I'd rather have the lower mileage car and not have to worry about all the stuff that tends to break/wear out around the 80-100k mile mark. To each their own. Here's a decent example for what looks to be a reasonable asking price (for a dealer) if the carfax is clean: https://denver.craigslist.org/ctd/d/...259751788.html FYI, $25k can get you into a C4S, but it will likely be a higher mileage car unless you get real lucky.

I picked up my C4S about two months ago with 80 k on it but everything from ims to rms etc done and documented at 67k when clutch was done along with all the typical maintenance done as well. Got it below what the seller wanted after I waited it out and cash.

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You're going to have good years and bad years. Always save money for your Porsche regardless of the year you're having. The more money you have set aside, the less you'll worry about the damn thing! The last thing you want to do is finally buy it and then be constantly afraid of breaking it.

I went for an '05 C4S which to me is very special, but as others said at $25K it will be difficult to find a low mileage one. As far as annual $$, my experience may not be reflective of others but I spent $11.5K CAD (about $9K USD) in my first year of ownership. Most of that went to preventative maintenance however, only $2K went towards actual repairs (water pump gave up the ghost and had to replace it along with thermostat, pulleys, serpentine). The balance was used to do IMS/RMS/clutch/flywheel/chain tensioners, rear tires, C-Quartz Nano coat, light tint and various minor mods/upgrades.

I've now owned my '99 996 Mk I cabrio for 8-9 years...adding about 5K miles/year. My annual mntce. costs (oil/filter changes and tire replacements) have averaged $600...except for two "big ones"; i.e., F/R rotors and pads at 70K miles, and RMS/IMS/clutch/DMF + fluids at 83K miles. Overall ownership experience has been a joy. relinuca

$3,400 in preventative maintenance. IMSB, AOS, LN Spin on, clutch. $5,200 in total with exhaust and other bits. Don't plan on doing much other than driving and basic maintenance. Might tackle the waterpump in the spring time though. I don't expect maintenance to exceed $500 on a normal year here on out.

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In my opinion, a 2003 coupe with aerokit in Lapis Blue is as good as it gets.

That does look pretty darn good!

99 C2. Best Bang for your buck. Instagram

Find one with a full-leather interior. You'll thank yourself every time you get in the car. Beyond that, I would worry more about condition than year.

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Sport Technos look great on the 996. It's my favorite OE wheel for the 996 cars.

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In general I agree the full leather looks awesome but you have to be a little careful with how it's been stored and cared for; I've seen a lot where the leather is starting to bubble / come unglued from the substrate, in which case it looks a lot worse than the standard interior. Probably more common in hot climates and/or cars that are parked outside a lot. I saw enough of it when I was shopping that it kind of scared me away from it and made me think it's not that necessary of a feature.

I remember people used to tell me to avoid $20k 964 as they were all junk and leaked oil...now all are $40k+. although the 996s are not as rare, I do think prices have bottomed, and C4S and turbos will hold up well. my 2003 C4S I got for $25k four years ago w/67k miles as been awesome - I did ims/clutch and alpine/jl speakers and amp, and otherwise less than $1k in maintenance. Lots of smiles driving and hearing engine roar, and most people think it is $100k Porsche still. ZERO regrets and would do many times over.

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Thanks! I also have a set of CCW C10s which I think look great as well.

Quick question... 2003 Silver C4S, manual, Excellent showroom condition, never driven in rain, 23K miles. All original, so it'll need IMS, etc. done someday soon. $35,000 Good deal ???? Should I jump on it?

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Landing on the 02-05 MY is a process really supported by replies to my thread, including yours, along with reading from PCA and similar sources. Thank you for your input! /x3

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IMHO, a bit high if IMS not done.done . 2006 4S not much more, and w/ more hp and new headlights. Recall low mileage 996 is high risk IMS, but since owner didn't get it done, do check other service records too. my P independent shop suggests oil change each year or 18 months even if very few miles driven. good luck and show us pix if you get it.

Mk1s... they're basically faster 993s, the four spoke wheel is classic, the chains are stronger, the chassis more rigid, the materials more robust, the build quality more old school Porsche, the cylinders less prone to scoring, the heads less expensive to rebuild, the better throttle configuration, the aero more aesthetic, the more spartan interior, etc. Just ignore for a moment that the guy who praises the mk1 ad museum refuses to own one . Also ignore that the list of Rennlisters with mk1s that needed early rebuilds reads like a Tolkien novel. That's not to suggest mk1s are inferior to mk2s, just that collective experience suggests both models have their bugaboos & the real secret to being a happy 996 owner is to buy healthy, maintain properly & not fall into the trap of being afraid to enjoy it. For all in tents and porpoises, anyhow.

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Thank you and will do!

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Very good looking!

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I appreciate this advice, especially the part about enjoying the drive! /x3

Just don't get silver.

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There are many 996's for sale silver.

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I don't think silver does the car justice. Have owned one silver car and said never again. Honestly, it's going to boil down to what you want to spend, and what checks all the boxes you'd ideally want. Condition, color combo, coupe/vert. Regardless of what you get, it will put a smile on your face. There are things to be leery about of course, so use best judgement. Test drive some and have fun, if you're not in a hurry, take the time and find something that fits exactly what you want and don't settle.

I'm obviously biased, but silver is perfectly acceptable provided you have an interesting interior and the Carrera II wheels

Agreed, most silver 996's for sale showing 1.) black or 2.) gray interiors. Great photo BTW!

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Headlights a negative? The turbo-style is more characterful than the traditional round in the view of many. IMS: easily sorted, factor into purchase budget or negotiate price with seller. Full leather: mine is in showroom condition, cool climate and fully garaged all it's life. Almost a must-have, as it addresses most of the criticisms of the 996 interior. Mint low mileage 996s are only heading in one direction...rare in such a good value performance driver's car.

Just don't get {insert color you don't like personally, as a matter of subjective tastes - even though the opinion of every arsehole on this planet differs from the next in some form or fashion and there exists no clear path to back up subjective determinations, rendering the whole exercise slightly less productive than warching reality tv}

I've loved Silver before Silver became cool back then. To me, silver is the classiest color there is. I like simple and clean though. My style isn't "flashy", hence why I like the stock look and stock ride height. Get whatever color blows your skirt up!

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Indeed. In fact, if you're looking for long-term value, silver or gray will be the first choice of roughly 1/3 of buyers. So it is a pretty safe investment. There's a reason there are so many of those to choose from, and not so many mint-green examples. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_colour_popularity In a related, entirely-factual argument,

"Look - I use whatever trivial opportunity there is to try & exercise my feeling of dominance & superiority over my fellow man. In fact, I've even stooped so low as to judge new 911 buyers that opted not to add sport chrono. Or, my favorite, those that elect to pass on the aluma-look e-brake handle. Why? Because I CAN." - Otto Von Deuschmark Charter Member Watercooled Weenies Club

Taking my time to find a 996 in a color I can say "no!" In the meantime receiving good info in this thread, so need to find, see and drive a few 996's in any color.

Removed.

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Here's a color combo you can say "no" to! [yes, I know it's a Boxster]

There was an RGT (ruf) for sale locally around the time I bought my 996. Around 56k for an orange on burgundy GT3. If I had another chance I'd try to buy it.

I'm looking to buy a 2006 C2S. My reading is that early MY 2006's still had the IMS issue, and my question is whether the VIN can be decoded to know if I'm buying a vehicle with the old or upgraded IMS? TYVM! /x3

I have a silver 996 - is there a specific oil that is better for silver cars?

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They are robust enough that you actually don't need oil.

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Any good oil will do, but the tyres... that's another story!

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This is true! Watch Terminator2 if you don't believe.

Best years for a 996 are 2001-2005, since clearly you really want a Turbo and those are the only years they made 996 Turbo's...

I hear the 2004 40th Anniversary Editions are the way to go. Not biased, just heard that. Limited production numbers: 1963 Full leather Turbo front bumper and radiators X51 engine upgrade (345HP and engine upgrades) Limited Slip Diff Carrera GT paint Etc. Etc.

Also not biased but I heard the seal gray '04 C4S is the best choice. Must admit I bought it mostly for this view

With or without the E39? Color me envious.

That Seal Gray C4S does look awesome!!

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Yikes! That's a different forum! All 997 S models (3.8L) came with the bigger single row IMS which have a much reduced chance of failure, similar to the early pre-2001 double row IMS bearings on the 3.4L.

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So the 997 S models were introduced in 2005. Would these early production 997 S come with the bigger, single row IMS bearing too? TYVM!

As a first time 911 buyer should I go with: 1.) 2004 996 C2 Cab. 49,000 miles $32K 1a.) Late 2005 997.1 CS Cab. 62,000 miles $40K (wide-body, updated cabin, PASM) I think they both have the same motor, and the S has larger brakes, suspension and round headlights.

Go for the S but get a better price.

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Couple of confusing (alternate?) facts in your car options... 2005 Carrera S was not widebody. C4S was widebody, but in 2005, the C4S was still a 996, not a 997 (in the US) 2004 996 Carrera Cab would have been a 3.6L engine. 2005 997 Carrera S Cab would have been a 3.8L (again, narrow body) 2005 996 C4S would have been 3.6L engine, (widebody, but 996, again, in the US)

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My personal experience: TEST both cars if you can and buy the one that puts the biggest smile on your face and makes sense for your budget when you factor not only the purchased price but also the next 2 to 3 year ownership cost at the mileage you think you will drive the car (potential clutch, tires, brakes ...). This is how I ended up with the opposite car I would have bought if I had just based my choice on reading posts on the best 996 to buy. I was in the hunt of a cheap 108k miles 99 MK1 and ended up with a 63K miles MK2 2004 with PSE. (PSE = big smile every day, huge smile in cover parking and tunnels ...).

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My reading is the 997.1 was first introduced as a late 2005 MY, included 3.8L, updated cabin, round headlights and widebody. /x3

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That view is awesome! /x3

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^^Yup...though you should ask for a discount b/c of the round headlights

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This is the 2005 997.1

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3.8 Yes, updated cabin Yes, round headlights Yes, widebody No. That is not a wide body. Wide body 997's were the C4, C4S, Targa 4, Targa 4S, GT3RS, Turbo, & GT2. None of which were US production in 2005. Here's a comparison of a standard 997 cab and a widebody 997 cab...

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Widebody 997 width 73"; standard 997 71" (approx.) Awesome photo BTW; that would make good PC wallpaper! For sale? /x3

2004 Porsche 966 Cab Atlas Grey/Grey Full leather power memory seats/Bose/Xenon//Lightweight Carrera wheels