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Share a little more info about what's important to you about the car, and what draws you to the 997 as a stablemate to the E31.
- Dan
its the fact that I have always wanted a Porsche. Its time to move up, but I cant get rid of the e31 as it has been with me for 10 years now.
I was going to get a 964 as I love the look, but after talking to friends who own one and such they said its not worth it. Now they are to expensive for what you get actually. Yes they are cool and everything, but you can get much more for the money. So I thought about getting a newer one as have it as a daily. BTW I am tired of old cars after the e31. Its also the fact you can say I drive a Porsche. When you say BMW its nothing special
Nice looking 850 - I'm surprised that platform didn't do better than it did for them.
Anyway, sandwedge's review of the differences is pretty much spot on. The steering is more pure in a RWD models, plus, if you really want to experience the 911ness and the history of that platform, being able to turn off the PSM and steer it around with the rear is really only possible with the C2S as the 4S starts transferring power to the front, changing the dynamics. However, if you're going to drive it in the winter, one of the AWD variants is certainly the best option. If you can leave it at home and take something else, then I think the RWD versions are slightly better. Remember, you're frame of reference for RWD has to be completely reset and reformed since your Bimmer has a front engine and RWD whereas the 911 a Rear Engine and RWD. This is partly why 911s can accelerate out of corners so well, why traction in the rain even it 2WD cars is excellent, and one reason they've stood the test of time.
Ideal RWD 997 list car:
GT2 - lots of power, RWD, and widebody (but way too expensive at $200k)
Next 997 Turbo converted to RWD only (which is not too difficult to do) - gives you widebody, RWD, lots of power and a bit softer car than the GT2 for more general use (if I was buying a 997 right now, this is what I'd do $75k plus about $10k for conversion)
Next - GT3 Mezger engine, a bit less power and RWD, but NB ($100k)
Next GTS - widebody and can be RWD only ($60k)
Next C2S - NB and RWD (pricing from $40k-$55k depeinding on year and options)
I have a supercharged .1 C2S somewhere around 475/485 HP with a full track suspension that I never drive on the track. Power is phenomenal, handling is razor sharp with a push of the DSC button, usable back seat for the kids, yet still comfortable enough for regular use where I take it on multi-hour trips a few times a year). Because of the RUF bodywork, it's hard to tell whether it's a NB or a WB (it's narrow, but the widebodies are sexy). I absolutely love it and don't ever expect to sell her. With the mods, I'd slot mine into the list above pretty even with the RWD converted turbo since it essentially has a GT3 suspension, but a decent amount more power.
Ideally, you'd drive both an AWD and a RWD for a bit, but on just a test drive, probably won't be able to pick what's right for you. Might come down to finding a car with the right options, right transmission, in the right color, with the right mileage and history, and not worrying too much about whether it's a RWD/AWD or a NB/WB.
I have owned a C4 964 and C2s 997 Cab. Although there is of course a big difference between any 964 and 997, I found the C4 to feel a little more planted and predictable in the corners. But, the 997 is much more lively, and kicks the tail out quicker. I was able to drive the 964 closer to the limit sooner than the 997 on a track. Not sure if that is the AWD or the extra 100 hp. Overall, I have more fun in the 997, which is my reason for having the car. What i do miss is the ability to accelerate really hard in the rain, without much loss of traction. kind freaks people out its so fast.
Also the problem is i cant try them out anywhere because I will have to import them and there are so few of the in Iceland.
You say you can make turbo into a RWD. Cant I do that with the C4S?
Also the problem is i cant try them out anywhere because I will have to import them and there are so few of the in Iceland.
You say you can make turbo into a RWD. Cant I do that with the C4S?
Yes, it would be the same process. I've heard it has been done a few times, but do some research to make sure before proceeding down that path.
Im even starting to look at the 991 c4s, but still dont know if manual of pdk
the 991 is not that more expensive when imported to Iceland due to emission taxes
Im even starting to look at the 991 c4s, but still dont know if manual of pdk
the 991 is not that more expensive when imported to Iceland due to emission taxes
if your daily commute dosnt include stop and go bumper to bumper traffic, then get a manual.
If you have to deal with traffic, go PDK.
My daily driver turbo is manual. I love it, but hate it in traffic.
My next daily driver will be PDK.
My race car is PDK and i love it.
The 4 gets you the wide body. The 2 is more "true" to the GT cars. Driving-wise the 4 might be a little heavier steering because of the weight of th front diff.
You will not feel hindered by the 4. The 997 being the last analog 911 known for its great steering feel will be rewarding to drive in either config.
Think of the 4 as a non-turbo turbo. Would you diss the turbo cuz it's AWD?
I also like the 959 lineage of the 4 as a mental appreciation for the variant.
Get a .2 and the DSC module, even for street only use. It transforms the car regardless of where and how you drive it.
I track my manual 4S (and daily drive it in Florida.) I regularly go out on track with a friend in a 2S. It's an interesting dance: I'm able to get on the power a couple car lengths earlier exiting turns. He has a PDK and catches up (or pulls away slightly) in the straights. In the end, our lap times are nearly identical.
12-09-2016, 08:53 AM
