Upgrade

I have the opportunity to upgrade from my 03 C2 to a 997.1 C4S (55 plate) with full factory fit GT3 aerokit and switchable exhaust plus host of standard extras for approx £18K PX price to change. Is it worth the upgrade? Any thoughts and advice please?

I would say no, but then, judging by the price you have quoted, it sounds like they are offering you a good value for yours. The early 997's don't really have any real noticeable updates to be honest to the interior, they are there but it's not exactly a major difference. They are a bit more refined, but I can't speak for reliability. I was behind a brand new 991 this summer (well a few months old), and he had coolant pouring out the back and water running out on to the left exhaust, I shouted and told him his header tank look like it had split, to which he thanked me and pulled over. Good to see Porsche still doing their old tricks lol. The 997 is more pleasing to the eye from the front and rear, the updated lights are smooth on the front and the lines are sharper on the rear, but, IMHO a nice aero kitted 996 still looks just as nice. I don't think you get any more performance from the 997 either, it's a bit heavier and doesn't have all that much more power. I guess it is at the end of the day up to you, whether you want something a few years newer, with different shaped lights and a few updates, but all in all, I think it's much the same thing. I've driven a few 997's and my 996 with all new suspension felt just as sharp if not more so (fitted a new M030 package all round) than the factory 997 targa I drove. The turbo is another story all together, it's in another league, much more solid, better built engine (as with the GT's) and is worth every penny extra, but if we are talking c2's and C4's I really don't think you are getting much for your 18k. I'm sure others will disagree but that's just my opinion Cheers,

Thanks for that and would not disagree with your view. As you say there is much that is the same between the 996 and 997 but enough, I think, to consider the change from a 996 C2 to a 997.1 C4S as possible worthwhile.

Personally, I think that the 997.1 C4S will feel quite a lot different to a 996C2. Apart from the interior, PASM makes a huge difference to the ride quality (which is standard on the 4S, I believe). Since having had it on my Cayman, I don't think I could go back. Although people say that the 996 interior is dated, it is ergonomically better than a 9x7 (IMO, of course). The buttons and controls of the 9x7 can be a bit small (once you get past the age for needing reading glasses), but on the whole I find it a slightly nicer place to be. Pros and cons to each, and it is quite an amount to spend, but like you say should be worthwhile. Just my 2ps worth.

Thanks Richard and Steve for helpful feedback and views. Still not decided yet - probably its the colour (Arctic Silver) and the GT3 aerokit that's putting me off at this stage on what otherwise is a very good and well equipped car.

The other advantage of course, is you become eligible to join 997 Register. [ ] Surely worth the £18k on its own![8|] [ ] Regards, Clive.

I agree with Richard here - there is a massive difference in 996 and 997. When I took my 997 for a test drive out of the OPC I could not believe how much better it felt with more power and remarkable handling. I love the interior of my 997 its much more modern and feels so much better. I do pile the miles on my car and its now done 76k miles and passing a major service last week with flying colours. Drive them side by side and you will see what I mean.

Peter - you went from 3.4 996 cab to your fabulous high spec 997 coupe. The OP here has a "facelift" 3.6 2003 car so would only be moving forward one generation of 911, not 2 generations like you did! I think £18k is too strong money to change as proposed - OP, I would hold out for a 997.2 - your 996 won't be depreciating at the same rate as the newer car (if much at all) so one will soon be within your grasp if not already. That way you benefit from the more reliable engines as well as the more modern interior and make more of a jump in one go.

Try an older Porsche[ ] You'd probably be surprised by how good they are, too[ ]

I did - I had a 996. Its engine blew up and cost me over £10000... [ ]

I too have had older Porsche (994S and 930T) and they are without doubt classics of their time, but times move on and with it taste, gizmos, safety etc. If I had the money I would have a modern Porsche for everyday use and an older one for weekends, fun, shows etc that way getting the best of both worlds. Points taken on moving up only one grade and especially the point on 997.2 and improved engine reliability. Having test driven the car in question it was noticeably more perky than my C2 but as to whether it is worth £18K more, that is another question. Thanks to all the contributors and advice.

Tough call, I can see how it is an attractive proposition. But... Best of luck whichever decision you make.