996 What best year?
 

I recently sold my 2000 Boxster S to pursue my dream of owning a 911.

I have decided the 996 is the best entry point for "capturing" the dream. My question to all or any who might be interested is this: Should I consider all MY's or avoid the early ones?

Having owned the Boxster, I am aware of the IMS and RMS challenges that "appear" to haunt the 996. I also understand the importance of proper maintenance and proper driving.

I appreciate any and all comments. Presently, I am leaning toward a 2002 with 3.6. Definitely 6-speed. Preferably a Cabriolet.

Thanks in advance and very happy to be a new member of the forum.

2002+ w/3.6 but hey I am y be a bit biased ;)

MY03 with a 3.6--Cab preferably Guards Red! Good luck!

The best year of any model 911 is the one you have in your garage and/or driveway:)

'99: 5 chain and dual row IMS! Plus no electric trunk release or throttle. KISS.

Well done Sir. Well done.

When I asked the same question ages ago (4 months) people said the later the year in the car cycle, the better. So 2004- 2005. But I would never fault you for buying a 2002. They are all amazing works of art.

Good luck in your search! Take your time and you will realize that dream.

#1 answer :thumbup:

The earliest 1999 you can find!

Thats my personal opinion, but its based from aspects most wouldn't consider.

What's your budget? 997's are already going for $35K on Autotrader.

p.s.
I don't want to quibble with your own choice but I find it strange when someone dreams of owning a Carrera and opts for a Cabriolet.
Hacking the roof off such a beautiful form really takes away all of the classic appeal, particluarly when you look at it from the rear, and you're making some compromises on handling that you'll notice straight away coming from a midengine roadster.
Still a great looking car though.

"Hacking the roof off". It's mid 70's today and late January in Northern California, and thankfully My 996 came pre hacked by Porsche. Looks good to me.

The 911' s daddy, 356 #1 was a open top... but it also had the engine in the middle :)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedi...PorscheNo1.jpg

I doubt I'll have the $3 million budget for an original 550 Spyder so a modern version will have to do for now.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Yba-0dpk3K...Thumbnail1.jpg

Jackpot! My '99 MY build date was June, 1998!

2001 with dual row retrofit bearing.

turbo.

If you want a cab, then I suggest the 2004 C4S cabriolet.