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Reliability of 996 C2 vs C4

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Old 06-24-2020, 02:58 PM
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Yabadabdoo
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Default Reliability of 996 C2 vs C4

I'm currently interested in a 2000 C4 on the market. Conventional wisdom tells me that a C2 is lighter and less complicated to fix versus a C4. From your experience, how's the reliability of the C4's front differential? Any guidance is appreciated!
Old 06-24-2020, 04:51 PM
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Nick_L
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I've owned both and currently in a C4. The AWD system is rock solid. It is noticeably slower in straight line acceleration but I like the way it handles better. The C4 body shell is stiffer than the C2.
Old 06-24-2020, 04:52 PM
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paddlefoot64
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Like my C4S
Old 06-24-2020, 05:21 PM
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Mike Murphy
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I wouldn’t hesitate to buy either one, especially if you find one you like, regardless of version. Make sure you drive both to see if you fancy one over the other.

My 99 3.4 C2 rear tires never break loose on acceleration, even in turns. Only trail-braking does it occur, and I don’t get stuck in up to 6-7” of snow, so even a C2 has decent traction with the 3.4 engine.

The 3.6 engine on the 996.2 might be different, as it has more torque and HP. Tires also make a difference.
Old 06-24-2020, 06:18 PM
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motoo344
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Honestly, outside of the potential engine issues these cars are pretty solid. Inching my way towards two years of ownership and no issues, knock on wood.
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Old 06-24-2020, 06:22 PM
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paddlefoot64
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My C4S has huge tires on rear (315/30), so it won’t lose traction, even in the wet. Have never had a car with such good traction. I’m sure the C2 are pretty good also, in that area.
Old 06-24-2020, 06:35 PM
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wyovino
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I've been on this site for 10 years and I don't recall ever seeing a post about problems specific to a C4. ( aside from slow filling problem at the pump)
Old 06-24-2020, 06:40 PM
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Mike Murphy
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Originally Posted by paddlefoot64
My C4S has huge tires on rear (315/30), so it won’t lose traction, even in the wet. Have never had a car with such good traction. I’m sure the C2 are pretty good also, in that area.
I agree. Even when I came in way too hot around turn 1 at Autobahn Country Club, under heavy braking, I had to turn. The rear end came around slowly and predictably, easy to control.
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