Dave J

Hello:
I'm in the rather nice position of being able to choose between two equally well-cared for vehicles: One is a '96 C4S, and the other a 2000 C4. What are the reliability issues that might make one a more durable piece than the other? They both have approximately 60,000 km [approx 36,000 miles,] both have full service records that indicate full care and attention.

Thanks for any insight you may have,
Dave in Canada

Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems

Hi Dave:

You get many opinions on this, so I'll just offer mine,...

The 993 wins this question hands-down, all things being equal.

Wachuko

I would think also that the 993 would win hands down... but I am positive 996 owners will chime in.

993chaz

No brainer .............993!!

g-50cab

993 - next question

GrantG

I've owned both - the 993 is more reliable and more fun to own in every way!

Chris Picklo

The 996 Carrera is a great car, but isn't a true 911.

993 hands down!!!

Ed Bighi

Personally, I would always take a 911 over a 996. But regardless, the question isn't so much reliability but durability. If the 996 in question isn't either some form of the GT3, or a turbo, then it does not have a 911 based motor in it. And for those that think the GT3 motors are GT1 based, that isn't the full story. The GT1 motor was a modified version of a mixture of the 962 and 959 motors. Of course, both of those were based on the 935, which was based on the 930, which was based on the Carrera 3.2 and SC motors. Though the GT1, along with the GT3 and current turbos, use a crankcase that is based on the 993 crankcase. For something interesting, whenever at the dealership looking at the parts program, check out the diagram of the 996turbo/GT3 crankcase halves with the air-cooling fan base still cast in. Yeah, it is still there. Needless to say, the 993 has eight main bearings, dry sump and over 30 years of evolution. In fact, it is so good that the 996 turbo and GT3 still use its foundation instead of the boxster based, wet sump 996 unit which the factory will never use to race. As for performance, a 993 can be made to be every bit as quick as a 996. After all, I know plenty of SC's and earlier cars that were made to be quicker. And if comfort is really one's thing, Mercedes makes very comfortable cars. So does Cadillac.

Jay Gratton

I would take the 993 personally! However, it is your money and you are the one who needs to be happy with it. Why don't you post your pro's and con's for each car and we will help you decide which one we think your leaning towards! Best wishes - Jay Gratton

Noel

The values of many 993s are equal to or greater than many used 996s for a reason. They are more desirable. 993!

You should also consider that the 993 will probably hold it's value better than the 996. Making the cost of ownership cheaper.

Noel

ked

Dave, you might post this in the 996 forum - there you will get responses from those who have "graduated' from the 993.

Most of us 911-centric types are unlikely to go beyond the air-cooled path that Ed so convincingly describes. {at least for what we own, as oppposed to lease, eh?} I concur with most of the responses - if I ever wear out my '87, or wish to add a newer model, it will likely be a nice, simple 993.

Please don't tell the 996 folks what we've said about their cars - we really respect their personal decisions. Plus, there had to be SOMETHING for 924-928-944-968 enthusiasts to aspire to...

schlag

Per recent discussions on the 944 board, it seems most of us aspire to own a 993.

wwest

Any air cooled engine is subject to damage, sometimes severe, from "shock-cooling", sudden cooldown of the engine block or portions thereof. For instance it is never a good idea to take an air cooled 911 through a car wash with the engine already up to operating temperature or immediately after running HARD.

Ask any pilot with experience in general aviation or some of the few that have experienced this in the 911.

Having said all of that I would only vote for the 996 because of the many other technological improvements, and Lexus class interiors, in the 996 series.

Wonderful, OUTSTANDING, example of true sports cars and beauty to boot, spare!

Doug H

Maybe out of your price range, but I would go with 02 or newer 320hp 996. These cars are my favorite P-Cars yet. Wonderful performance, easy to drive in traffic and just an all around fun car with absolutely no lag. Great low end torque response. Very comfy and, although a matter of taste, I like the 996 looks better, especially in person.

But if between the 993 4s and a 90C4, be real tempting to go with the 4S. I guess I just like the 996 better. Drive both and see what you think.

Mark in Baltimore

993, baby, 993.

Let's not forget how much prettier it is, too.