Tell me why I shouldn't purchase a 996 or 996 turbo

So I have been looking for another vehicle and the 996 models are catching my eye. For those of you that own/have owned one, what were the downsides? I have seen a couple of modified 996 turbos that have really caught my attention but I also really like the convertible carrera's. I won't be running this one on the track (that is what the 944 turbo is for). Just looking for a daily/weekend driver for the summer months. 5000 miles a year tops. Thanks

I would just simply avoid the early 3.4's as they were known for issues. I think it depends on what you want, I think the Carrera 4S is a pretty darn nice machine. This is sort of a apples and oranges thing too me. Do you want a NA car or do you want a boost car. Both will have potential and different handeling charictoristics. Ofcourse like most things turbocharged vehicles the performance upgrades are easier. However there are gains things that the N.A. carries in favoriable driving charictoristics. I remember that the 2001's + sell for a bit more as more updates were made too address those that the early variants 99/2000 had.

Thanks for the reply...... At the moment I am leaning towards a 2002 996 turbo.... Are you aware of any issues with this model year? Thanks again.

The rear main seal is probbly the biggest thing too look for. That and a tidy service record. Alot of people reffer too this as the RMS. One would like too think this was addressed but I cant say for sure, typically 2002+ sell for a bit more as Porsche realized this issue and or private shops addressed it. I dont exhactly remember 100% but I do know that the early 98-2001's sold for a bit less because of some mechanical issues. Not too say they are inferior in anyway. Just a stigma that fallows. Some 2002's depending on production date. But The Crankshaft Seals are sort of one of those things that can be solved. Its not the end of the world if addressed. Its about 8-10hrs labor with a hefty price if you take it too Porsche. But you know from what I have seen Porsche sort of ignores the fact, and it can happen at any given time if the problem is not resolved the first time right. A good Porsche specialist can do solve this for you. The coolent header tanks tend too get brittle and snap or crack. This is also kind of common on some of the BMW's where the radiators have alot of plastic items and would start too leak due too just age. Like all things German, they wont brake, and if they do they are costly. Some people have sufferd in the early variant turbos and carrera's Air conditioning problems. Basicly its important to have some papper work and a reputable Porsche specialist or dealer ship have a look. And on top of this servicing reports. The bigger the better! But the Turbo's have always been quite strong if you take good care of them. Its very important too understand the owner in which you are purchusing the car from. Is this owner a speedy racer? Does this owner drive like old people ****? And so on down the line. I would stay away from already tuned cars. Unless you are aware of what your getting your self into and the work was carried out with percision and care.

996TT are basically bulletproof, assuming the maintenance was done and the car was driven how it should be and I don't mean around town, where it can suffer from carbon issues. Modified, unless there is ALL the paperwork and the company that did the work is still in business, should be avoided.