I am just starting to research the 997's and I'm trying to figure something out. In the 993's the "S" is a widebody. Is this the case with the 997? Or is the difference between the base model and the S just the engine?

 

Just the engine - you need a 4S or a 4 for the wide body.

 

OK, so since we're asking noob questions here, I'll jump in too. I hope the OP doesn't mind.

Does the 4 handle differently than the 2? I would expect the 4 to have an edge on slippery roads. But on dry roads, would you say that due to lighter weight, and suspension dynamics, the 2 would handle better or be more fun to drive? Any differences wrt reliability?

 

So, Carrera 4 & 4s are wide body, and Carrera & Carrera S are narrow body? I don't mean to doubt you, but that's not the distinction on the 993 series cars...are you sure about that?

 

Vince is correct - fat *** on the 4's.

 

Got it. Thanks!

 

Yep, he got it right. Not the same as the 993 series and their wide bodies.

997 Targas are also wide body. (duh, they're all 4wd, right?)



Your handling assessment is pretty accurate I'd say, although I've never driven a 4wd model.

4wd has more parts to wear out and break, so a bit of a tip to the 2wd for less possible repairs. Have never heard of the 4wd being prone to problems though.

 

GTS models also have the wider rear.

 

And GT3 is narrow, GT3 RS wide...

J

 

I think the coupling system for the 4's changed, maybe in the 997.2's?
Seems like I recall it changing from a "viscous clutch" (hydraulic) to an electrical clutch coupling system (electrical) to over simplify the difference in technology.
I don't think there are reliability issues with either systems, certainly not with the previous systems, as they were on turbo's, too.

 

The difference between "wide" and "narrow" is a lot less significant on the 997 than it was in previous cars, too. I've owned both and I can barely tell which is which (visually). It's subtle, not dramatic.

 

Its funny but initially i liked the wide bodies on the 997.2's but after a while and seeing my brother's 4s, there were times it look disproportionate at certain angles like the body was bent. Maybe just me though. I know a majority love the wide bodies.... I like the narrow body versions though. And yes modern cars, s and carrera have same body.

 

The 4's have the wider bodies and wider tires (305’s in the rear vs 295’s). My sense is that they are slightly heavier, more planted, more go-cart feel. That being said I've only compared a 997.1 C2S to a 997.2 C4S in which there were substantial changes made to the suspension as well. You can have fun in both.

 

Thanks, everyone. Does anyone know the actual specs on the different dimensions of the S vs. the 4S?

 

I believe 44MM wider at the rear. Front is the same.

To me the visual difference is striking and is more beautiful. I can always pick a widebody 997 out on the road from afar, kind of looks like it has its wings spread out. I'm completely sold on my 4S, looks and handling.