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Thanks, I thought the 2005 997 had fixed the IMSB issues.
The 997.1 does have a larger diameter IMSB with a very low failure rate. However, the switch happened sometime during the 2005MY production so some from that year have the smaller bearing of the 996, and some have the larger bearing.
I like the seal grey, I have not seen one in that color yet for sale. Do you have a different fixed spoiler on the back of yours?
I do have a different fixed spoiler on it...I'm not exactly sure what "model" or "package" it's from, I thought it was factory but now that I'm looking I don't see it on the dealer spec sheet. I have the spoiler button on the fuse panel but it doesn't do anything, obviously.
Last edited by mcfisticuffs; 03-22-2016 at 01:40 AM.
Reason: photo
Bought an 03 996...liked it a lot...foolishly traded "up" to an 06 997S...found that the brakes and the engine were great but the Sport Chrono was overrated, and I missed the interior of the 996 (much nicer than the 997) and I also preferred the headlights and more unique styling of the 996. After three months I dumped the 997 and went back to a 996.
If you look at the rear bumper assembly from the side, the 997 has about a 30-degree slant, whereas the 996 is horizontal. I'd say that's worth 8k right there.
Thanks, I thought the 2005 997 had fixed the IMSB issues.
perhaps but then you still have issues with scored cylinders, which IMO, affects more engines than blown IMSB's and is a much more catastrophic (and $$$$) failure.
The 997.1 does have a larger diameter IMSB with a very low failure rate. However, the switch happened sometime during the 2005MY production so some from that year have the smaller bearing of the 996, and some have the larger bearing.
From my little time in my 997.1S this what I know:
Early 3.6 2005 motors have the smaller IMS that can serviced like a 996
All 3.8's have the larger IMS that need the engined cracked open to service it
The bigger brakes on the "S" are awesome
The PASM suspension is a big plus
Sport mode on MT's stiffen the suspension and gives quicker throttle response
The chrono stop watch thingy and not having a dipstick stinks
Is the added cost worth it? Depending on the options, non-S vs S and interior finishes maybe.
Like many of you on Rennlist, I've read many articles that state the Pinky Lai designed 996 while at first was very much hated by the purists, is now being embraced as the radical bridge into the new generation (i.e. water cooled) of 911s that saved Porsche from otter demise. I predict the 996 will become very valuable in the near future. We're seeing the car at the bottom of the depreciation curve and so it's a great time to buy one in my opinion.
If "looks" are the big determining factor, then no one here will be able to convince you one way or the other, because frankly, a car's proper appearance is very subjective. If performance is the priority, then save the money and buy the 996, but if you want the more classic 911 look, then fork out the extra money and buy the 997. Cheers!
Hello, I am looking at getting my first Porsche. I want a 911. I have driven a 03 996 Targa and was thrilled. The price is in my budget. For about $8000 more I can get a 2005 997. Is the 997 really that much better then a 996? Thank you.
If your into the whole comfort thing, I think it's worth it. The interior is nicer. Ergonomics/layout are better. It rides better. And it's newer. When I drive the 996 and 997 back-to-back, the 997 is clearly a more "luxurious" ride. Put a 996 right next to a 997 and you'll see the difference pretty quickly. But, whether it's enough difference for you - well, that's subjective.
03-22-2016, 01:09 AM
