tomofva

I haven't owned a Porsche in 15 years and I looking to get back in this spring. I've learn a lot from looking at some local cars for sale. So far, I narrowed my search to a late 993, or late 996 (2002 up).
Today I spotted a nice 996 Turbo (2001). Can you guys help me regarding Turbo vs non-Turbo issues?

Does the Turbo share the same IMS concerns?
What are the main issues (motor/trans) look out for?

Thanks

turbo4 me

Hi Rook,

You might look at a recent debate of the attributes of the classic 993 vs the 996 turbo (look back about 2 weeks).

The IMS issue is a non-issue for the 996 turbo. It is a Metzger motor unlike the normally aspirated 996's.

Your decision may come down to whether you want to pay more for an air-cooled car that is much slower than the turbo. Maintenance costs will probably be a wash unless you are just unlucky. The 993's have a secondary air injection problem that can necessitate a top end rebuild.

On the plus side for the 993, they seem to be appreciating in value if you take care of the car and don't dump a bunch of miles on it. The main plus for the 996tt is the boost- it will kick you in the pants.

How about one of each? That's what I wish I had-

csaturno1

Im a new owner of a 02 x50. So far has been amazing. I was on the fence about the car- did a lot of research here and in general. Have not regretted my decision- truly a amazing car- it does everything well. This is a great place for info- 996 TT have a few issues that are pretty common- not show stoppers. Get ready to here PPI ALOT. The car is violently fast and yet is pretty usable. I don't use it as a DD but every time I drive it puts a grin on ear to ear. IMS is not a issue on the TT motor. Just my 2 cents.

tomofva

Thank for the tip. I just found some material on Metzger 996tt. Seems like a sturdy motor!

SSST

It is.

tomofva

OK, I'm going to see a 2001 996TT. A+ condition with 95K miles. Any real-world ideas on prices? I'm not so scared about the miles knowing a little more about the turbo motor. Is there a best year between the 2001 to 2004 Turbos?

nick49

Look at NADA for prices. Most cars sell back of book at all levels. The exception may be a super clean, very low mile car that is near mint with all service records, all tools, books, keys, no paint work ever, just serviced, new tires, etc.

There is a wealth of info here, look at previous threads, GL!

tomofva

Are all 996 turbos AWD? All I have seen so far are?

T2

Tom,

The 996 Turbo's are AWD. I've accumulated 372,000 miles on my 2003 Turbo - engine is stock and is just about ready for a rebuild. I just replaced the first clutch in the car back at 353,000 miles, this is a car driven every day, any weather, track, snow, all of it. Is it a perfect example - far from it, is it reliable and exhilarating transportation as a daily commuter - I can think of no other sports car in this category that would perform like this one and still be on the road. It provides a perma smile at least twice per day...........

Buy it, drive it and enjoy it - in that order!!

T2 - continues to knock on wood - your experiences may vary................

Kevinmacd

The 996tt engine is based on the GT1 race engine, toitally differet then the 9966 M96 ( naturally aspirated). which has the IMS and RMS issues. The 996tt is basically bullet proof. The 996tt engine is also i s a dry sump engine as compared to the M96 engine which is not. All 996tt are 4 wheel drive, which should not be confused with a GT2 which is rear wheel only.

In any event get a pre purchse inspection (PPI) done before purchasing. A littl money spent on a good PPI can keep you form spending big $$$ in the long run. Especially on higher miuleage cars.