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Would you Buy a ‘96 Varioram or Stick with a ‘95 Model?

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Old 01-07-2019, 09:01 PM
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Mhodor1972
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Default Would you Buy a ‘96 Varioram or Stick with a ‘95 Model?

I am debating between a ‘95 C2 and a ‘96 C2. Both are about the same price, but the ‘96 C2 has fewer miles. I know the Varioram engine has its own set of problems and there are potential problems with the alarm and lock system.

However, I suspect the ‘96 model is probably in higher demand and may command a higher price in the future. Any thoughts about the pros/cons of the ‘96 Varioram?
Old 01-07-2019, 09:15 PM
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rcropp1
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Both can certainly be great cars. I personally chose an early '95 due to the simplicity of OBD1 and no immobilizer. I live in Maryland so I don't have to smog a '95. I also love the basket handle... all of the above is why I chose my '95.
Old 01-07-2019, 09:16 PM
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BetaSteve
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Perform the best pre purchase inspection you can on each car. Write everything you see, good or bad, down on separate paper for each car. Complete a pro and con list, and decide which one YOU want based on opinion, personal value, affordability and ability to do your own repairs, minor, major or none... Do NOT worry about future $ values that might or might not come about. That’s not what these 993’s are about. Or any Porsche for that matter. Then take your choice to a shop well versed in air cooled cars for a real PPI and start negotiating accordingly. Enjoy the process! If neither one fits what you want wait until one that does comes along.
Enjoy the search as much as the upcoming ownership!
Old 01-07-2019, 09:18 PM
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Andy Hodapp
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Some notes to take on a 96 is that you can't tune it like with a 95 or 97-98. Do you plan on keeping the vehicle stock or upgrading it? With a 95 you need a tune if you install a light weight fly wheel. I love the feel of the varioram but there is more maintenance and worry of vacuum leaks causing power loss. I wouldn't judge a vehicle on miles but rather service records and actual quality.
Old 01-07-2019, 09:32 PM
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mike cap
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Buy the car that has the best combo of condition, mods, documentation and bloodlines (buy the owners). Difference in years is meaningless long term.
Old 01-07-2019, 09:43 PM
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pp000830
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Whichever car you buy in the long run you will feel you made a good decision.
Old 01-07-2019, 09:53 PM
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Cactus
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95 all day. OBD1 and no immobilizer.
Old 01-07-2019, 10:03 PM
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AOW162435
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Originally Posted by rcropp1
Both can certainly be great cars. I personally chose an early '95 due to the simplicity of OBD1 and no immobilizer. I live in Maryland so I don't have to smog a '95. I also love the basket handle... all of the above is why I chose my '95.
+993




Andreas
Old 01-07-2019, 10:18 PM
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TheOtherEric
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There's really only two relevant factors here -- color and condition! Get the car that speaks to you and is in proper condition, and odds are you'll be happy a long time.
Old 01-07-2019, 11:17 PM
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P-daddy
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Originally Posted by rcropp1
Both can certainly be great cars. I personally chose an early '95 due to the simplicity of OBD1 and no immobilizer. I live in Maryland so I don't have to smog a '95. I also love the basket handle... all of the above is why I chose my '95.
Originally Posted by Cactus
95 all day. OBD1 and no immobilizer.
Originally Posted by AOW162435


+993




Andreas
Agreed!
Old 01-08-2019, 12:12 AM
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JB 911
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Originally Posted by rcropp1
Both can certainly be great cars. I personally chose an early '95 due to the simplicity of OBD1 and no immobilizer. I live in Maryland so I don't have to smog a '95. I also love the basket handle... all of the above is why I chose my '95.
Originally Posted by Cactus
95 all day. OBD1 and no immobilizer.
Originally Posted by AOW162435


+993




Andreas
Originally Posted by P-daddy






Agreed!
Don't listen to these guys! Buy the '96! When that resonance flap opens, and you feel all the extra torque from that varioram kick in (all 12fllb!), all I can say is ... you better hold on!


Originally Posted by TheOtherEric
There's really only two relevant factors here -- color and condition! Get the car that speaks to you and is in proper condition, and odds are you'll be happy a long time.
^FTW
Old 01-08-2019, 12:25 AM
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Railmaster.
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The 95! You can install the V-ram any time but not the OBD1 to the 96.
Old 01-08-2019, 12:43 AM
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HelpMeHelpU
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Mark--Last summer I asked a similar question: https://rennlist.com/forums/showthre...1080889&page=4

Not many really answered my question but there are many good and relevant insights that might be helpful.
Old 01-08-2019, 11:41 AM
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Spyder_Man
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Originally Posted by Railmaster.
The 95! You can install the V-ram any time but not the OBD1 to the 96.
+993

That's what I did. Though the varioram unit is waiting to be installed during the engine rebuild.
Old 01-08-2019, 12:46 PM
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abiazis
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95 - all day longer

Easier to be chipped
No immobilizer
OBD 1
Basket handle look
Less to go wrong minus Varioram
Nicer exhaust tips - subjective
Generally less $$$ to purchase


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