wwest

First, the early C4 using the VC is a non-functional issue, Trac mode activates long before the VC fluid can "stiffen". The 997.2 has a more useful R/awd system, same as in the Ford Escape but reversed.

You'll be putting a lot of trust in fellow drivers, something I would NEVER do.

Mister Moo

I lived or worked in Germany on and off since the mid-1970's.

Zee Germans with Porsches drive them whenever they want to go somewhere. Also their BMW's, Mercs, Audis and Opels.

TheMystro

I would never drive a cherry air cooled 911 in the snow. I can see a cheap 996c4 might be a option if you didn't care much about long term appearance. Their market values are low enough now and odds they will be a future classic are rare. I see 996's going stupid cheap as long as the maintenance and possible IMS failure doesn't give you night sweats.
The reason I don't drive a 911 in the winter time is the mass quantities of salt and cinders that are on my local roads. After the first snow, all you hear when driving on them is chip, chip, ting ,pa ting under the car. Too many better options with a 4x4. After the first snow fall my car is locked up till spring and the roads are cleaned up. I have a few SUV's and my personal non P-car is a Dodge Power Wagon.

PoloTurbo

Go for it in a 996 C4s. Great car for the money and who cares about salt.
At 45 000$ budget I would look at a TT.

Psycho Sid

Hahaha yeah that's what I said but you left out the punch line...

So can a 911 be a winter car?... yes
Is it capable?... yes.
Is it fun in fluffy snow?... hell yes!
Should you ?...

I'm taking the Benz instead.

Whipple

An Audi TT??

911 Crazy

TT= Twin Turbo