Can't decide, RWD vs 4WD, narrow body vs "S"
#31
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Feel free to pile on, guys. 30 years in, with everything from a '68 SWB through to the C4S and RS wannabe. I'm not writing for a living; merely passing along my honest observations.
In any case, I think I did note to the original poster's point that buying the best car he found within his budget was the primary concern................
But back to where I've offended. (And I do apologize for harshness.) So what exactly did I notice differently today, on the street, between the RSA and C4S? I will say the AWD was a bit reassuring in the quick downpour we had when I was going out to the shop. But that was purely a traction issue, relative to hydroplaning at 75mph on a less-than-perfect I-680.
The simple reason I challenge perceived differences is that no way, no how within the bounds of reason on a U.S. road, can you tell the cars in this series are fundamentally different. By that I mean (and I'll take it off the track analogy) is that on (insert generic favorite twisty road) the suspension components installed and setup will greatly trump any physical characteristics of drivability/performance, e.g. a C2 with PSS-10's, RS stabilizers, and 225/265 tires v. a C4S bone stock. If you had a C2 would you not trail brake into a turn versus if you had a C4S? I submit that if you're on the street and you're talking threshold braking, you're asking for something Very Bad to happen.
I'm happy to continue to discuss topics like this; but it's probably most appropriate on another thread.
In any case, I think I did note to the original poster's point that buying the best car he found within his budget was the primary concern................
But back to where I've offended. (And I do apologize for harshness.) So what exactly did I notice differently today, on the street, between the RSA and C4S? I will say the AWD was a bit reassuring in the quick downpour we had when I was going out to the shop. But that was purely a traction issue, relative to hydroplaning at 75mph on a less-than-perfect I-680.
The simple reason I challenge perceived differences is that no way, no how within the bounds of reason on a U.S. road, can you tell the cars in this series are fundamentally different. By that I mean (and I'll take it off the track analogy) is that on (insert generic favorite twisty road) the suspension components installed and setup will greatly trump any physical characteristics of drivability/performance, e.g. a C2 with PSS-10's, RS stabilizers, and 225/265 tires v. a C4S bone stock. If you had a C2 would you not trail brake into a turn versus if you had a C4S? I submit that if you're on the street and you're talking threshold braking, you're asking for something Very Bad to happen.
I'm happy to continue to discuss topics like this; but it's probably most appropriate on another thread.
#33
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Now even though my 993C2 has a wide body rear (wider than let's say a 911 SC's body), it is my understanding that the real C2S is 3" wider than my car and I possess a C2S clone not the real C2S.
I can't be the only one with such a clone?
#34
If you want wide, I like the 4S.
If you want narrow, I like the 2.
This is based on light vs balanced. mix them up, ie C4/C2S and your compromises are out of alignment.
Different dance, both are fun.
Just my opinion, so there it is for what it's worth.
If you want narrow, I like the 2.
This is based on light vs balanced. mix them up, ie C4/C2S and your compromises are out of alignment.
Different dance, both are fun.
Just my opinion, so there it is for what it's worth.
#35
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Well I think the consensus is buy what you feel best about driving
FWIW, I wholeheartedly agree with Ken on his sentiments about "the differences" between each model. Sure they feel different, but "feeling" different doesn't necessarily translate to one model variant getting around a corner faster/slower than another. Just too many variables here other than the cars' model designation. I will concede that AWD will obviously be an advantage on slick surfaces, and the turbo is obviously faster. But those are obvious points, no?
As for Big Reds an "advantage"?? I disagree. They are heavier (when is that ever good!), and also more costly to replace pads/rotors. Net benefit is nil. All bling, no point for the street.
Bumper differences: aesthetic choice ...your personal call. As is the "narrow" rocker sills vs the "S" ones. I prefer the cleaner, lithe look of the NB sans tail. But that doesn't mean I don't love looking at a widebody ...I'd just own the better one
Edward
FWIW, I wholeheartedly agree with Ken on his sentiments about "the differences" between each model. Sure they feel different, but "feeling" different doesn't necessarily translate to one model variant getting around a corner faster/slower than another. Just too many variables here other than the cars' model designation. I will concede that AWD will obviously be an advantage on slick surfaces, and the turbo is obviously faster. But those are obvious points, no?
As for Big Reds an "advantage"?? I disagree. They are heavier (when is that ever good!), and also more costly to replace pads/rotors. Net benefit is nil. All bling, no point for the street.
Bumper differences: aesthetic choice ...your personal call. As is the "narrow" rocker sills vs the "S" ones. I prefer the cleaner, lithe look of the NB sans tail. But that doesn't mean I don't love looking at a widebody ...I'd just own the better one
Edward
#36
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I am a little confused here. When I purchased my used 1997 993 last year, the dealer was up front in telling me that what I was purchasing was a C2S clone. It was really just a C2 with upgrades. Ignore the CarreraS tag on the rear lid, ignore the CarreraS tachometer, ignore the CarreraS door sills. But my C2 does have the Turbo front bumper, my C2 does have the 18" wheels and my C2 does have the Big Red brakes ... all upgrades previous owners made to the car.
Now even though my 993C2 has a wide body rear (wider than let's say a 911 SC's body), it is my understanding that the real C2S is 3" wider than my car and I possess a C2S clone not the real C2S.
I can't be the only one with such a clone?
Now even though my 993C2 has a wide body rear (wider than let's say a 911 SC's body), it is my understanding that the real C2S is 3" wider than my car and I possess a C2S clone not the real C2S.
I can't be the only one with such a clone?
Are you sure? I'd expect at least some improvement in the 60-0 distance in otherwise identical cars.
#37
Rennlist Member
I am a little confused here. When I purchased my used 1997 993 last year, the dealer was up front in telling me that what I was purchasing was a C2S clone. It was really just a C2 with upgrades. Ignore the CarreraS tag on the rear lid, ignore the CarreraS tachometer, ignore the CarreraS door sills. But my C2 does have the Turbo front bumper, my C2 does have the 18" wheels and my C2 does have the Big Red brakes ... all upgrades previous owners made to the car.
Now even though my 993C2 has a wide body rear (wider than let's say a 911 SC's body), it is my understanding that the real C2S is 3" wider than my car and I possess a C2S clone not the real C2S.
I can't be the only one with such a clone?
Now even though my 993C2 has a wide body rear (wider than let's say a 911 SC's body), it is my understanding that the real C2S is 3" wider than my car and I possess a C2S clone not the real C2S.
I can't be the only one with such a clone?
#38
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No this is where my clone/replica was not completely followed through by the previous owners. It is my understanding that my rear fenders are stock 993 C2. I was told that my car is identical to a C2S except that it is 3" narrower in the rear end to the real C2S. So I am still a C2 ... with upgrades. At least this is my understanding and if I ever do need to sell the car (I hope I don't) I will sell it as a 993 C2 despite the CarreraS labels on the rear lid, tach and door sills.
#39
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#40
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The stock blacks on the 993s will easily overcome even R-comp tires ...over and over and over again. Yes, this is easily born out on the track, and its limits certainly not attainable on the street (and not get handcuffed, anyway ).
The only functional advantage Big Reds offer is thermal capacity, not shorter stopping distances. And even with the greater thermal reserve, the advantage is only appreciated by very good drivers under Race conditions. With a medium driver (yeah, I am flattering myself ) under TimeTrial events, the stock blacks have never failed to deliver firm stops, repeatedly and continuously, with remarkable consistency and utmost confidence (with requisite tack pads, of course); and this with the added benefit of less weight and cost. So on the street, the BRs get you bragging rights ...and the privilege of paying more when its time to replace
Edward
#41
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Car and Driver Magazine has a very good article out called "The 993 Buyers Guide". It says no matter what you buy, make sure the color is black. Black Porsche's are the fastest! Just ask every owner of a black 993 Porsche and they will concur.
#42
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LOL ... don't get me wrong, I love the Black 911s. But you guys spend all your time at the car wash while those of us driving our Silver 911s are off driving our cars since Silver hides the dirt better than the Black cars.
#43
#44
By transparent, I mean the opposite of my Jeep with a Detroit Locker in the front.
Just go somewhere where you can drive both. I drove 8 hrs to drive and again t buy my car.
Just go somewhere where you can drive both. I drove 8 hrs to drive and again t buy my car.
#45
OP here--
Just read all the responses. I do plan on buying the best example I can find; however, my plan was to narrow my options down to the body type and drivetrain at least, and THEN test drive a bunch of cars. I don't think I can check out 5 cars of each version (C2, C2S, C4, C4S); too busy for that.
Just read all the responses. I do plan on buying the best example I can find; however, my plan was to narrow my options down to the body type and drivetrain at least, and THEN test drive a bunch of cars. I don't think I can check out 5 cars of each version (C2, C2S, C4, C4S); too busy for that.