Real Difference in Prefacelift v Facelift 996

Hi I know the facelift is more powerful etc( 3.4 v 3.6), but what are the prefacelifts like? Are they worth a look? Is there much between the 2 when driven on normal UK roads? Basically, will I be losing out big time if I go for a prefacelift as opposed to the later model? Obviously the only downside is that I dont think I'll have a wide body, but I could live with that Thanks JayK

Not sure of physical differences, like extras etc but you cant tell the power difference at all. I have driven both and actually thought the 3.6 slower. I am sure it wasnt, but it felt it.

JayK these are the major differences: 996 Facelift Major Changes From autumn 2001 (51 plate onwards) Some options were available as options for pre-facelift cars. Technical 3.6l Engine 320bhp Strengthened Chasis Exterior Turbo Headlamps Updated Front PU Updated Rear PU (hard to spot) Glass Rear Screen on Cabriolet Soft-top can be operated on the move in Cabriolet Carrera 18" 5 Spokes Alloys Available Interior 3 Spoke Steering Wheel Glove Box Cup Holders New onboard Computer (updated display digital mph moved from tachometer) Electric Bonnet and Boot releases.

In terms of drive there isn't a lot in it. The pre-facelifts are certainly cheaper. But it really comes down to the headlamps. I had a pre-facelift, but I prefer the looks of the facelift car. Headlamps are nicer IMO.

That's not what you used to say

LOL

Not true! Always admitted to prefering the facelift cars. Just there was a budget issue before and pre-facelifts are better value for money. I will be proved right when the old threads come back. :lol:

Thanks I much prefer the look of the facelift as well. Firstly, the headlamps, and I LOVE the look of the widebody on the C4S. I also prefer the more sleek steering wheel on the facelift amongst many other things But I was just thinking that the earlier cars are also really worth a look. There are loads of nice examples for under £30k. I guess I've got a few months to decide so no hurry. Still ideally I'd love C4S for around the £40k mark. If not, then I think £30k will comfortably get me a nice prefacelift example Cheers JayK

The interior is better quality in the facelift cars IMO. And don't forget the cupholder... :roll:

we have cupholders on pre-facelift cars. And if your coffee's really hot you can carry them with you to prevent burns when leaving the car. Another porsche design 1st

And any spillages run down the side vents rather than into your stereo :shock:

Pre facelift sounds like excellent value for money to me. Sacrifices tho are the wide body, and a few small things here and there. Also will have to make sure the car is new enough to get a decent warranty JayK

2001 cars can be warrantied for another 3 years.

The pre-facelift car does look like a Boxster from the front, but overall I like the slightly smoother look. When I was looking I found the facelift cars are often priced at an excessive premium. For what I paid for a later pre-facelift car with less than 40K would a have got a facelift with over 60K miles Different magazines pass differing verdicts but Evo rate: 3.4 +Beaufully polished 911 -Some like a bit of rough. Five stars 3.6 +Faster, more secure than 3.4 -A little less thrilling. Four and half stars. You pays your money.........

So what happens after that? Will you be able to get a warranty from anywhere at all, albeit at a price? CHeers JayK