1999Porsche911

You can't compare a Z06 with a 996 C4. One is a sports car that requires great driver skill and the other is a car that has training wheels capable of being driven by even the most novice of drivers.

gota911

Dave, I would recommend looking at a '02 - '04 996. They made some interior and performance refinements (+20 HP and vario-cam plus) beginning in '02.

Either way, buy the latest model you can afford and getting one that has CPO warranty would be even better.

gota911

OUCH!!!

Feeling a little frisky today, are we?

Dave-ROR

Fun at any speed is ideal IMO, and one of the things I felt were a negative with the S2000, it was fun when you beat on it, but when just driving it around it was boring.

I've decided to skip the autocross tomorrow, and have setup an appt to go test drive an 01 C4 (it may be a C2, depending on which ad you read...) and an 03 Z06.

1999Porsche911

I just want to prevent this thread from becoming a love fest.

ivangene

My thought is that if you have been at the track and have most likely seen both cars,
I have also seen Vette's run, and if that does something for you, then I think you owe it to yourself to get one. (there is something drawing you to it....not the badge)

That's all,
They are very different, each will require learning new skills. Get the one that has the most draw for you. (IMO if you are asking, then the Vette holds enough draw that if you dont get it you might wish you had)

Dave-ROR

I had an 06. AP1's are more raw, but at least for autocrossing, I always put down faster times in AP2's..

I've toyed with the idea of getting a 2000 or 2001 S2000, throwing a cage in it and using it, but I've been there already, I like switching to different cars. Great cars when they are getting beat on though.

Dave-ROR

I really wish I could have driven VIR the two years I was there (running events), but since the S2000 didn't have a rollbar, it wasn't VIR friendly

Dave-ROR

By that logic, I would then regret not getting the 996 since I'm drawn to it as well no?

To be honest, the Z06 worries me more on track than the 996 does. I'm not used to big horsepower...

Both of these cars are performance bargains IMO.

And BTW, I'm more drawn to the 996 at the moment...

Thanks for all the replies guys. I'll post my impressions after I test drive them tomorrow.

Fissionx

Just wanted to add a few things to the mix, per your discussion on car control.

I'm sure you know the 996 is harder to catch once the rear comes out. Most of the mass is in the rear and once it comes out it builds up more rotational inertia faster. This issue is further intensified if the car has an open differential. I cannot compare this to the z06, but compared to my e46 m3 the 996 is MUCH more sensitive to inputs at the limit. Changes in throttle have a bigger effect which forces the driver to be smooth. These make for a much more 'exciting' driving experience in the 996 and is why I switched from the M3 (tho I really regret not finding an LSD car). Aftermarket LSDs for the 996 go for $1500 (torsion) or $2500 (clutch pack) from Guards Transmissions plus install.

The z06 comes with LSD standard, this was only an option for the carrera2. If you do have an LSD the car will have traction control only and will not have Porsche Stability Management.
In my opinion, the z06 also has a superior stability control system that allows you ample room to play before kicking it. The system's calculated coefficient of friction (tire and road) is is dynamic meaning it works for different tires, wet/dry and has slip, yaw, and steering angle sensors. It is my understanding it will allow some sideways motion given the steering input angle the computer sees will correct the slide. All of this can also be disabled obviously.

ivangene

No problem, remember.... I dont know you or your driving style, skills or desires. I am just posting an opinion and it has no real evidense that I am making sense or have a clue as to what or why I say what I do....

Therefore, as you already stated, its just poeple talking and use it for what its worth. The decision is yours and I would be happy to hear your results. I hope what ever you get, its a good car and treats you well. Who knows, you might end up in both one day!

Meister Fahrer

Tim, I think you're buckin' for Moderator status, keepin' it real.

OCNYPORSCHE

I had a C5, however not a ZO6, so take this with a grain of salt. I would take a 996 over a C5 any day of the week. The balance of the 996 is just second to none in my book. Also, driveabilty is something to look at too. C5s are a bit low, very wide, and only 2 seats. As a daily driver, I much rather drive a 996.

Dave-ROR

ivangene:

Fission: Thanks for the input. The cost of the LSDs is something to consider since the LSD will help with autocrossing quite a bit.

gota911

Dave,

Oh jeez, if that were to transpire, then I would have to become respectable, and we all know that ain't gonna happen!