Why did I buy a Porsche 996 and what is it like? | Porsche 911 tiptronic review 

Yeah...not sure I’d have felt the same way if I’d bought a Ford Edge (no offence to Ford Edge drivers)!

Buy a 996, manual, you can’t see the headlights when your driving it and you can’t tell the difference from the 997 except for the saved money in your pocket and the smile on your face

I'll be 55 in 23 months. I've never even sat in a 911, let alone driven one, but I'll be getting mine then. I've had some decent drivers cars over the years (new BMWs inc E46 M3, Mk 2 Focus RS, Golf 7R manual 3 door et al) but nothing that will be like a 911. That said, after nearly six years of daily driving I've become surprisingly attached to the Golf.

@@carlfogle6517 Yes, I bought a 996 when I was 54 after always dreaming of owning a Porsche. I don't get the big stink about the headlights, I wouldn't have even noticed the difference if so many people didn't squawk about them. I have a red manual with Aero kit.

Thank you! One does one’s best!

Brother from another mother! I will do! Agree with you. I’ve driven quite a few Porsches of late and I keep coming back to my own as my favourite. More to come, David!

I’m really glad you enjoyed the film! I’m the type of guy that just likes talking about cars so it’s great to hear that there are a few kindred spirits out there! Also, why aren’t people scooping these cars up? They’re great!

Thanks Rich!

Thanks so much! Are you pleased with yours? How long have you had it?

That’s very nice of you, thank you. Is there anything I can do to help you?

Thank you!

Thank so much. I always get a buzz when it helps someone. You might want to watch my other video on the 996 range walkthrough. It shows you all the models and when they were made. Designed to help educate people who are looking for one. I hope you enjoy it! Here’s the link: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-odpufIf7Ank.html

You know, I can see the addiction. When I initially bought the 996, I thought that there’s no point in getting a newer one because they’re all pretty much the same. HOWEVER... I can see why you’d want to continue getting the better car. Hmmm. I need to be careful...this could be EXPENSIVE!

Hi Mark! I say go for it. Really! They’re great cars and everyone should own one once.

Do it!

Thanks Aidan! Go Weston! Tell everyone to subscribe!

Ooh you did well there, Dave! Great value! Thanks a lot for the nice comment. Appreciate it!

Thank you! Being filmed tomorrow. Stay tuned!

Just OK? I’m sure it’s a little more than just OK, right!?

Just exactly how I feel. I can’t imagine what 650bhp feels like in the new Turbo S!

@@JAYREAD It would feel like losing your licence! Lol.

Thanks! Me too!

Thanks very much. It honestly feels like something is wrong that these cars are so cheap! My only hope is that it’s reliable.

@@JAYREAD Jay I totally agree...I think we are the lucky ones..I can't actually find a better $/smile option..

Thanks a lot. Really appreciate the feedback. It’s hard to resist the new exhaust itch though. Hmmm.

Thank you kind sir! Sometimes I’d live to have a manual outside town! I’m happy though!

That’s validating! That’s my strategy anyway. Good to hear that it appears to work in harsher climes than down here!

s SW Love this! Who jump starts an automatic?! Hehehehe! More to come! Good one coming on Thursday that you’ll like actually. LOADS of Porsches!

k2wo1 George! Wow! I’m so glad you liked it and that it was helpful! Let me know if I can help you any further. Thanks again!

@@JAYREAD Thanks Jay, I will let you know if I have more questions.

Hi George. I got an 02 6sp C2 with 18,000 miles. Brand new no accident. Canadian car. 44K$ canadian. If interested write me to paulh2e2r7@ yahoo.com

Thanks for joining in here! What modifications have you done to yours?

@@JAYREAD​ Simply suspension components.Living in California, especially my area, maintaining emissions compliance can be difficult to chase with engine and exhaust mods.

Ah yes, California emissions! I might do a film on my plans for mine. I’m not sure I’m going to do anything with the engine but an exhaust for better sound is in my future.

Hi Mike...great to hear! I’m going to spanner a bit myself, I reckon. I should be able to do oil changes at least, I hope.

@@JAYREAD I currently have the front sub frame off in order to replace power steering hoses which have failed at the crimped connections to the flexible hoses. Also changing hard brake lines to front calipers, tank straps, coffin arms and support stays and upgrade to sports suspension with uprated roll bar. Renew seals etc on calipers. Pistons still in pristine condition. Then onto rear end to repeat upgrade. As a matter of interest, the much praised 997 also has IMS bearing problems, with the 997.2 the whole engine has to be dismantled to replace!!. Lastly, the battery can be charged through the cigarette lighter, so no problem getting to battery if flat

@@mikehelme3229 - No , in the 997.2 the difference is exactly that, no more intermediate shaft needed ( they simply supressed it once for all ), and also the direct fuel injection "DFI" ...

We’re in the same boat! I’m not sure if my low mileage is really a good thing. It definitely is addictive!

Thank you!

Yikes! I suppose it’s not $10k. Every cloud, right?

NEVER a stupid idea! You’ll love it!

Greetings right back atcha! Let’s hope so although I’m really enjoying just doing it - I LOVE cars and I have also just discovered that the filming and editing part is really good fun too. I encourage everyone to try it! Thanks a lot, Benny! I hope you’ll join in on the channel.

Cheers Max! I will! Well, I will try!

And I love to drive it! Win:win!

My ‘99 is arena red. I love it!

I also have an Arctic silver 99......love it

I'm looking at a 2003 996 c2s with 87k miles for 23k. Manual, 6 speed, all wheel drive, sunroof and power everything. I live 911s and a first time buyer...I think it's pretty good for my 1st..

I guess you could always buy it back!

Carlos Silva thanks dude!

Hi there neighbor! I agree with you. It’s a good auto box. I mean, I’d prefer the PDK but there’s literally nothing wrong with it.

Thank you very much! Helpful information because I KNOW it’s going to happen one day!

Thanks mate! They are great, aren’t they?

Great stuff, thanks!

@@JAYREAD you can jump it through a "cigarette lighter to cigarette lighter" jump starter. Gives it just enough juice to power up the hood release., and then you can access the battery in the frunk.

Thank you so much! I bet it feels slow compared to the 997tt? How does it compare?

@@JAYREAD they are very different in their driving dynamics. The 997TT had a very linear, but very powerful acceleration curve. Mine was equipped with SportChrono Plus and, when engaged, it felt like that initial liftoff on a very fast rollercoaster ride... No exaggeration. You can feel the G's deforming your ribcage as it presses your whole body against the seat! Tons of torque and it felt like it would just keep going if there were more revs to give on every gear. The Carrera has a more curvy acceleration curve... It really comes alive once you surpass the 4500 RPM mark...and even more so after 5k. However, in some ways, it is much more enjoyable because you're in it for just a tad longer... With the Turbo, you eat through each gear very quickly and you're constantly worrying about that next upshift, working more on a "reflex" basis. With the Carrera, there's more time to strategize and think about where in the RPM range you want to hit that next gear. :) The best part, for me, is the nimbleness of the Carrera vs the Turbo, especially on a nice twisty backroad. You could feel the Turbo's heft on every corner... The AWD system compensated somewhat, but it became a very artificial feeling that I learned to dislike. The Carrera becomes an extension of you.. Almost like wearing a silver Bodyglove wet suit! The shear straight-line performance of the Turbo can't be ignored, but I like to enjoy the drive and feel connected with the car, and I never got that from that car... I "met my hero", got to know him, and in the end came out a tad disappointed. When I set out to find my next 911, I recalled the feeling I got when I drove a number of 996 C4S's, as well as a GT3... I knew that was "it", but wanted something in the middle. I got fixated on the 40AE because of the guarantee of having the X51 engine and, after missing out on 2 previously, I finally got the chance to be first in line for the one I ultimately purchased. The NB Carreras are just the right 911 to my eyes... Possibly because my obsession with 911s started when I saw a Yellow Bird for the very first time. :)

That’s a great write up. Congratulations on finding your car. As someone once said: I love it when a plan comes together.

@@JAYREAD thank you and likewise!

Love this. Thanks a lot.

Just watch out for that roof, it's the only downside when it will start leaking. Expensive job, BUT I would still pick a Targa again it is the right balance and because of that rear window I can get two sets of golf clubs or a months shopping in there. I really is annoyingly practical for a play toy

The very best of luck, John. Write back and tell me how it went, will you? Such great cars. So so undervalued.

I also had an air cooled SC 1980 but sold it to get my 996 Carrera 2 manual which I have had for around 8 years. IMO you cant compare the two cars as they are SO different. The 996 is the more accomplished vehicle but the SC was better built at a time when Porsche perhaps did not design and manufacture to a target sales price. But I love my 996 for what it is - a fast car that feels amazing on the road, that looks traditional and great from any angle, that’s supremely reliable, doesn’t depreciate (now) in value and can return 30mpg (UK gallons) if you are light footed (but who wants to do that!). Buy a good one and you will never be disappointed.

Greetings Ron! My point exactly! Life is far too short. Just get in a 996 and go! Have a great day!

Thank you

Yeah.... I need to change my IMS bearing. I’m driving a TIME BOMB!

KPN I’ve been thinking about that actually! Also the Fabspeed exhaust. It needs something, don’t you think?

JAY READ Fabspeed is a nice product, at the time (5 years ago) I decided on Fister because of the price point. I opted for the ceramic finish and the sound is addictive. The stock exhaust is too mellow for this car.

Yeah, the price is important and your feedback is really helpful actually. I just looked at the Fister website and my spec was coming out around $800 if I send my mufflers in. What other mods have you done on yours?

JAY READ Besides the Fister, I replaced the shift mechanism with the Porsche short shifter, added the GT3 shift knob/boot, much shorter throw, huge improvement. Added some interior leather bits from Exclusive Option, check them out. Besides that, it’s a stock 996, kept all the OE parts just in case.

JAY READ Super reliable car, the IMS bearing was replaced with the LN Engineering unit as was the rear main seal.

Good to know, thank you!

Thank you! Story of my life too. If anyone wants to know when a car is about to shoot up in value then they should immediately buy when I sell. Capri for a 996? Hmm, that’s a tough one!

@@JAYREAD if I'd hung onto my 924 Carrera GTS that I sold in '89 I'd be laughing all the way to the bank right now. Such is life, Capri prices are just about to go truly daft so I may hold on a little longer. It does drive well and I'm a sucker for nostalgia

Thank you! How interesting. You prefer the 996 to the 997S! That’s unconventional, isn’t it?!

@@JAYREAD use to be unconventional but not now..Enjoy !

I think you’re right about changing the character of the tip. Makes perfect sense. Thanks for posting!

Thank you! Yes, it’s not just on the list, it’s the number 1!

@@JAYREAD I saw in the comments you were asking about mods... I'd recommend the GT3 82mm throttle body with the Competition IPD Plenum. That alone will increase your acceleration and add some HP. You'll get the most of it if you add a custom exhaust with a good intake (Fabspeed). That'll probably get you somewhere near 330 to 350 BHP. I haven't done anything to my 02 C2 but it's a blast to drive. Also you can't go wrong with lighter wheels and new suspension.

Once you start, it never ends! Lol! Thanks so much for the help!

I wouldn’t bother with the IMS. If it hasn’t gone it’s not likely to and many other items in the engine are as likely to destroy it, (so you spend £1500 on the IMS and then the con rod goes...)just keep it maintained and know that you might have a £10k bill one day..

Hey thanks!

Thank you!

Haha! You are addicted! No going back now!

@@JAYREAD Poor Camry has become like the old cat that gets neglected when a new kitten or puppy finds its way into your home. I hope it doesn't start pooping on itself. ACTUALLY it did just die on the street yesterday, in fact! It needed a new alternator. Goodness, the jealousy is real!

daddyscientist hahahahaha! Keep the Camry for special occasions!

Awesome! You described my 2000 “Bonnie Blue”! Total love affair! Best bang for the buck!

Saludos Jav! Yes, IMS is at the top of my list. I worry that I am driving a time bomb!

I know but it was bought as a daily driver and all rounder. I will keep on top of it, don’t worry! I look after my cars.

I’ll get it done! I think it’s great that it’s not just still going after all those kms but that it is still loved by someone. I love that.

De rien! Mon plaisir!

Eric, my problem is that I’m not very good at fixing things. I like to buy peace of mind as much as I can. You got a terrific deal though and it’s good to hear that others consider these to be long term prospects. Wish I’d bought one earlier to be honest.

@@JAYREAD I knew nothing about cars until I bought my first one, which was a 1973 Harvest Gold MGB. I had to learn quickly if I wanted to keep driving! There are a lot of maintenance items that are very straight forward on the 996. It is one of the easiest cars to change the oil on. You will find that Porsche loves to use unusual fasteners such as triple square and large size allen head if you do more advanced wrenching. There are many DIY RU-vid videos and the Rennlist forum is very helpful. Other than basic maintenance, the only thing I would consider doing in the near future on your car is the IMS Bearing. Counterintuitively, low mileage cars are more prone to failure. The 996.2 also came with the small single row bearing. A proper engine build is about $25k, so if the engine fails, your car is mechanically totaled. Not to scare you, because there are solutions, including a permanent fix, which is to install the IMS Solution. Although it doesn't increase the value of your car significantly if you get the Solution installed, it will give you peace of mind and will make it easier to sell in the future, if you chose to do so.

We have something in common, Eric. I had a Harvest Gold MGB! All top advice there. I’m going to go with the IMS Solution but, given my car is a tip, the engine needs to come out and I am being quoted $4,500 parts and labor. I’m saving up for that one!

@@JAYREAD I've heard around $4k for the Solution on a tiptronic, so your quote is in line with the norm. Taking the entire engine/ transmission assembly out is the way to go. Less overall labor. With the engine out, you may want to look at the coolant expansion tank (very difficult to get out with the engine in) and the Air Oil Separator (AOS)). Porschetech3 on Rennlist has a thread on the development of an improved AOS setup. Very well executed and it removes one of the potential failure modes of oil hydrolock due to a failed AOS diaphragm. Reasonably priced. I am definitely installing it in mine. Also look at the Y-cable that connects to the starter motor. Make sure the contact points are nice and clean. It can lead to a mysterious difficult to crank the engine situation. Also look over the small hard plastic vacuum lines. They are inexpensive and tend to break when working around the top end of the engine, such as alternator removal and replacement. There are some good recent threads on "things to do when the engine is out" on Rennlist. If you keep up with the maintenance, your 996 will be very reliable. You bought a nice example, so it is worth spending some money on.

This is brilliant help, thank you so much. I suspect my $4.5k will be the start of it. It once done I’ll be able to relax. Thanks again, really appreciate this.

Glad you enjoyed it. 997.1 is really the 996.3 anyway!

@@JAYREAD you are definitely right! Man you my friend got a great deal!! Your 996 is gorgeous!!

@@shughes911 thanks! Wasn’t such a great deal at the time though!

@@JAYREAD hmm? Ya I am looking at around 33/35 for a 2002 4s and 28/32 for a 2000/04 carrera . Mileage is between 28k/90k. I’d say they are catching on. Cheers!

Thank you very much. Yes, the 964 was the first 911 to have Tiptronic actually. Not sure without checking if its the same gearbox as the 996 but I cant imagine it’s much different. The 996 feels quite a bot more modern than the 964 (unsurprisingly) and thus it’s more useable but, as you say, the 964 is air cooled and, frankly, completely gorgeous! You pays your money, you takes your choice!

Believe it! It’s excellent too! Nothing wrong with an automatic!

Thanks a lot, Gilbert! Yes, do it! You won’t regret it. I changed my 996 for a 986 Boxster which was then changed for my current car, a Euro 928S! Lots of videos on the 996 though! Enjoy!

SO many interesting things in your post there.... what made you go from a Turbo back into a C2? Why a 996 when you had a $60k budget? I’m learning here! No, IMS hasn’t been done yet...it’s a TIME BOMB I know. The good news is that I’m, not driving the car very much during the pandemic so it can wait (I HOPE) until I have enough money to get it done.

JAY READ after driving my other options I just really preferred the drive and experience of the 996. If I had 80 to spend I may have gone for a 997 GTS although I have yet to drive one. The turbo was gorgeous and wickedly fast. It also felt very special. That said you could barely use all the power unless you were ok driving like a felon constantly. You also had to put yourself in a few unsafe situation to find the limits of the rear end and when you did then you were fighting the electronics even though PSM was turned off. It also felt heavier and not as connected. Finally the sounds was very muted due to the turbos. I would not call your car a time bomb, but I would certainly try to address it soon. Rennlist is a great forum btw and check it out if you have not already done so. Cheers!

Thank you! You might like my latest film about which is the best 996. It’s designed to accompany this film.

It’s hard to see life without a 911 now that I have one, you’re right. They have provenance (as a model) with their racing heritage, the looks to match and they’re so useable. I’m not so sure about spending the money to get a 997 though. They’re quite some money on top of mine and I’m not sure a 997 will make me any happier, and besides, if I start doing that I am on a slippery slope right up to getting a new one! If anything, I’d say a 996 Turbo is a natural next step to my Carrera but even those are near enough twice the price. I am definitely going to stick with mine for now because I still love it. I dare say you feel the same about your wonderful 997, right? :-)

Funnily enough, I was initially looking for a 996 Turbo prior to discovering the 997 C2S that was just too good to pass up on. The 996 Turbo S I was considering was around the £38,500 - £40,000 mark. Whereas the 997 C2S was the same 0-60mph and negligible top speed differences. The 997 set a new benchmark in interior quality and build, I had always aspired to a 964 Carrera 4 but being a Porsche crazed 12 year old when the 996 was launched, that became “the” 911 that I had to have and it was always my inspiration to achieve educationally/professionally thus allowing me to purchase one. Although I started with a 1988 Porsche 944 2.5 LUX followed by a very early 986 2.5 Boxster. Then the 997 was launched in 2005 and it was instantaneous love! It was always the 997.1 C2S for me, I prefer the first generation’s front and rear lights. The LED’s, be it the front daytime “running lights” or the tacky rear LED clusters, really didn’t appeal to me. But I certainly wouldn’t say no to another 996.2 C4 GTS though! I adored that car. With regards to you stating that your 996 is a keeper, that’s what owning a 911 is all about. You keep it, you drive it, you love it for many years, even possibly becomes an heirloom or a future asset to cash in when the 996 has it’s time in the spotlight, as it will. All 911’s do! I wanted a 964 for years and when everyone was saying how it was the one that “leaked” and the worst 911 to go for, I always wanted one. So you can imagine my disappointment when I had the money saved to purchase a mint example and the values all of a sudden tripled as if it were overnight! Then it was the best 911 since sliced bread! Ha! 🤣 I’m pleased you found a superb example anyway. I hope it brings you many years of pleasure. Be sure to embrace the Porsche community and events! There seems to be some awesome events that side of the pond! Especially Rennsport Reunion at Leguna Seca!

Great post, Shaun. Fully agreed. Oh yes, LOTS of events over here. The one we went to last weekend was an absolute joy. Video of that coming out tomorrow. I have never seen so many exotics in one place.

Thanks! No, it’s good but it’s not that good. No downshifts, I’m afraid.

My pleasure. No, the gearbox makes no difference to the IMS risk, I’m afraid.

Wow! Tell me more! Have you got your eyes on a specific car? Good luck!

@@JAYREAD not as such but am now convinced to go that way like you I looked at xkr jags but wasn't quite convinced by then So thanks for your video

Of course! If you need help, feel free to drop me a line. videocarclub@gmail.com Good luck!

One does one’s best.

Hi Michel! Glad you like it! Here is what I bought. It works well! tinyurl.com/ycn4mccb

JAY READ Thank you so much!!

You’re welcome!

Thanks so much! However, I made this video last year and I’ve been pretty active since! Always happy to meet new people though!

SO much to choose from! With these videos, I try not to make recommendations but rather to educate so you can make your own mind up. People choose cars based on so many things: build quality, looks, engineering, performance that what I like might be very different to what you like.

MavenMaven Pest thanks! Yes, I’m learning and getting better. I’m new to all this though!

I’m not sure there would be a great difference, you know? The gearbox is identical on the 996.1 and 996.2 but yours has less chance of the IMS going! Lol!

From what I’ve read I’ve got a ZF transmission while the .2 are from Mercedes

Thank you! More coming! Please subscribe!

Haha! Firstly, welcome to the club! Secondly, THAT’S CHEAP! Well played, sir!

Mert Ozbahcivan hahahahah! Love it!

Roelf Kromhout I agree!

Yeah, it’s top of my list. What engine did you get in yours after it went?

Thank you!

Yes, mine’s a bit like that. Chugs a couple of times before catching. Think it’s normal though.

Thank you, sir!

Yeah! This. ^^^

Thank you!