gmiz

Hi All - long time member but not much of a poster. Been on here off an on and like the Canadian forum - used to live in Socal and frequented that group a lot more.

Anyway - looking for some advice and a car. Have had a boxster S while in Cali, then an E36 M3 which I still have - loved both but need to scratch the 911 itch.

I am currently thinking (and looking) at either a 996 C4S or a 997 C4. Maybe a 997 C4S but that would top out my budget. I want the C4 because I would like to drive the car most of the year - living in Toronto other than really bad days or right after all the salt, I think I can drive the car 9 months out of 12.

I have set a budget between high $30's and $50K max. Kind of an arbitrary number, just what I am comfortable with. I am not too concerned with IMS hype (would probably proactively fix it if not already done); want a coupe as the BMW is a convertible and am keeping it. Also not looking for a garage queen - Im thinking under 130,000 km's.

So the question is 996 C4S vs 997.1 C4? I like the hips on the C4S looks wise for sure. Some prices though for sub 100k KM 996's (C4S) are the same ballpark as the 997, so thinking newer is better but...? I am not a track guy or an amateur mechanic, but have loved these cars forever. I think either will scratch the itch and even would consider a C4 996 coupe for the right car/price combo.

One other factor in my search is colour - they all seem to be black or grey. My 986 was Seal grey (see profile pic) which I liked but would prefer a colour like midnight blue. Again, not a deal breaker, just a preference.

Anyway - any thoughts on the choice or if there are cars you know of to look at, or stay away from, I would appreciate your collective wisdom. I am in the GTA and would rather buy local.

Thanks in advance for any help

Turbodan

buy a 996 turbo for the win! it has Mezger and avoid the bore scoring, IMS blah blah blah! you can thank me later

strathconaman

Go and drive a bunch of them. I drove a 996 Turbo, 997, and finally my 996 C4S. They are all different.

gmiz

Yes, Ive seen your FS post. Beauty car for sure. A turbo wasnt on the radar as I want the 4 wheel drive, but who knows...

gmiz

Thanks - Ive driven both a C4S 996 and the C4 997, but not enough to form a strong opinion either way. I think the 996 feels less refined, less technology etc.

Not sure which will hold value better? I think the C4S is a little more unique in some ways. Im likely not that picky on that part, really want the best car/value between the two.

Price wise, I am wondering why a 996 C4S would be in the same price range as a 997 C4? My buddy sold a C4S two summers ago for mid $30's. I should have bought it as I dont see the same prices now. Maybe asking prices and what they sell for are different stories.

Anyone have any intel on selling prices?

DCYT

All turbos other than the GT2 is AWD.

Turbodan

I don't have a turbo for sale, so not sure what you are referring to...

gmiz

I saw a FS post and assumed it was yours, my bad.

gmiz

Didnt know that - thanks. Very helpful.

911 Rod

There is a 996TT for sale here. There is no logic in buying a C4S or 997 when you could have the turbo.

jumper5836

totally agree, imo for Porsche not really much else can compete with a 996tt until the 991 GT3 came out.

Hyper911

I would stay away from the 996 engine and 997.1. look for 997.2 and 996tt as suggested.

Cosmo Kramer

Except the 997 turbo.

jumper5836

With the plastic coolant fittings and pressed on cam sleeves. Then the electronic awd drive, pasm and the added 200 lbs of weight and numb feeling in the steering. Believe me, the 997 Turbo is nothing close to feel like a GT car or a 996. I would not want one ever. Also need to mention they are very off in price range from the original topic.

OliverK68

In my area:

It's about 2-3 hr drive from GTA, so not sure if that's too far for you:

https://www.autotrader.ca/ico/porsch...200A5&sprx=100