tekkie

the difference in price between the two is 5-7k in some cases for cars with 30k miles is there a reason to not buy the turbo? i was thinking the 4s but now that i see a few turbos for 45k i am reconsidering

when do these turbos start blowing up? is the x50 option better for longevity?

sorry new to these cars, i know the B5 S4 turbos were not as good as the RS4 ones for example 😀

theporscheguy

Go Turbo if you can. Different motors and the turbo motor is very robust. Good luck with your decision.

Atrox

Simple version:

turbo has mezger race proven engine in terms of reliability the turbo is hands down a more solid car.

They don't blow up, that's the c4s that can.

i highly suggest you read through threads here and elsewhere. No contest if you are comparing the two, unless you prefer NA engines.

tekkie

i prefer turbos i just expected the turbo to be much more expensive ... so good news... well,except for the bank account lol

Atrox

they are, it's the sub 35k cars that generally have issues that will push em up to 45k once repairs are done. Save your money and expect to pay 40-50k for a well sorted one.

kmagnuss

Turbo. It's not even close in terms of reliability or fun.

TTL20148

I have both and I would say buy the Turbo especially if you are saying the difference in price is only 5-7k for cars with 30k miles.

I purchased my 2003 Turbo with 34k miles and 2003 C4S with 63K miles, a year later last Sept, and the difference in price was 13k after getting them sorted out. I had to put more money into the C4S initially because I did a major service, clutch, IMS, and two new front tires. Bought the Turbo after the previous owner did the major service so all I spent was 4 new tires, bumper spray, and spray on the driver side back panel because it was keyed.

jb1007

C4s great car if you get it sorted, especially the IMS. If done its a great car. I was looking turbo but they were 10k more in my region. I love my C4s but will move to turbo down the road.

docmirror

Turbo.

I don't really have any reason, but I like to write turbo. I hear it's better motor, I have no experience at all.

Turbo.

Valkuri

Dissenting opinion: Like the C4S. Had the opportunity to buy +/- anything I wanted under 60k (I just won't personally spend more: just my own quirk). I chose to buy a third C4S after two earlier ones, 996 and 993.
The turbo is ABSOLUTELY faster and more powerful.
Don't let testosterone trump personal experience, however. I've never driven the C4S and thought "Gosh, if only it was faster/more powerful". I find the appearance beautiful. For those who prefer power and don't care about looks: the Turbo. For those who prefer bragging rights: Turbo. For those who worry about the IMS: Turbo.

I'm good with my C4S. Give them both a try. Either way, you can't go wrong.

Dennis C

I think the C4S is the best looking 996 that money can buy. That being said, the turbo is a special car. I think you have to decide how to rank your priorities. If you like classic Porsche looks, then buy the C4S. If you love torque, then buy the turbo. There's no wrong answer here....

RngTrtl

its kind of a no brainer if you have the money to spend. get the turbo.

911 Rod

Do they not have the same body style other than the side turbo intakes and front bumper intakes?

RngTrtl

The rear wing is also prominent on the turbo and not on the 4 or 4s

Atrox

both are widebody cars. Exterior diff includes side vents, and spoiler. Other wise identical for body.

Watch this it it will help.