My wife has decided she would like a used base-model 911 as her daily driver. I have always been enamored with the car myself so I won't push back too hard. I plan to sell another car to help finance the transaction (2004 Mazdaspeed Miata). I began looking at the 996 version (1998-2004 I think) as they seemed to be better priced than earlier and later years. I started reading Porsche boards and started hearing about some issues with this series engines resulting in serious engine failures. Plus this version does not have the body styling she likes (wide hips) like the 993 model. of course the 993 was the last of the air cooled 911's so they are priced at a premium. For a car 7 years older, they are $10 grand more.

As we look for the perfect 911 within our budget, what should we stay away from, what should we look for, are the 996's reliable or should we stay with the older and higher $ 993's? Any input is greatly appreciated.

Jae

993s are what many consider the last "true" 911, as they are the last of the air cooled engines. 996 userhed in the "modern" era with a more mass produced car with a water cooled engine. Both are great cars, but it really just depends on what you want. The 993 or earlier is more of a collector/enthusiast car, with a lot higher maintenance requirements. The 996 is more of a daily driver car. The RMS (rear main seal) issue you're referring to on the 996 is not really as pervasive as many will make it out to be, and if you have a good PPI (pre purchase inspection) done by a good Porche mechanic (not the dealer, find a local Porsche specialist), then they will be able to tell you about any issues that a potential car has. FYI, don't every buy a Porsche without a PPI unless you REALLY, REALLY know what you are doing. Yes a PPI will cost you a hundred bucks or so, but it can save you literally 10s of thousands in unexpected repairs. Also, not sure if you're looking at a stick or tiptronic (auto), but the RMS issues are pretty specific to the manual cars. I keep kicking around the idea of a 996 myself, and although I love manual trannys, I would seriously think about a later year 996 tiptronic are pretty good, and in the newer 997s are actually faster than manuals. The later year 996 tiptronic will let you downshift at will with the buttons without even putting it into manual mode. On the manual side, I know it sounds wierd, but avoid cars with low miles. The RMS issue tends to not show up immediately, and if it is going to show up seems to do so by about 40-50K miles if I remember correctly.

Whatever you do, research it a lot (rennlist.com), and thoroughly inspect any potential buy before making a decision (go over it with a fine tooth comb yourself first, then send it for a PPI once you're getting serious about it). Make sure it has ALL service records, and that service is up to date. Also check what service is upcoming, or repairs are needed (especially clutch on manuals as it is a several thousand dollar item). Most of all, be patient. I know it's easy to get excited and/or fall in love on the test drive, but making a hasty decision on a Porsche can be the worst automotive mistake you ever make. Finally, even if you find one that seems to be in perfect condition, be prepared to spend $5K or more a year in maintenance/service.

Evan is right on the money with his advice. The 996 has gotten a lot of bad publicity that isn't necessarily deserved. I've had a few 911's and my friend has a 1999 996 with a 6-speed. The difference between the "old" 911's and the 996 is staggering. The 996 feels like a modern car, whereas the aircooled 911's, even the 993's feel like the old car.
My last 911 was a 1985 911 carrera coupe that I sold this summer, and now I really miss it. Definitely get the PPI per Evan's advice, and if it fits your budget buy the newest Porsche you can, particularly if you can get into a certified car with a warranty.

Since your wife plans to use the 911 as a daily driver stick to the 996 or possibly a Boxster (depending on where you live and the winter weather). The boxster will give you 90% of the look and feel of a 996 with a bit less power, and with prices dropping the way they have been on the Boxsters you can probably pick up a much newer one for less $$ than an older 996. The best bang for the buck on 996's is the '99-'01 cars. The '02 & up cars with the new headlights seem to demand quite premium. If you do end up looking at Boxsters I would look for a 2003 or newer model in the standard Boxster, or any Boxster S.

Personally, as soon as I can make my lifestyle fit the "box" I will probably buy a 996 or Boxster for a daily driver and occasional AX/track car. Although I still have a softspot for the older aircooled 911's, and a 911 targa would make a nice occasional driver. Good luck with your search! (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)

This post has been edited by vanwyk4257: Jan 1 2008, 02:24 AM

both the 986 (boxster) and 996 can suffer from rear main seal leaks. It's probably not as bad as P-car claim though. I'd just pay a decent porsche shop to do a PPI just in case. Some repairs could nickel and dime you. If it comes with records and checks out, buy it. 2002 + get the 3.6L engine, restyled lights, and some interior touches. I honestly think their interiors suck for a car that pricey.