The 996's monocoque steel bodyshell was 49 per cent stiffer than the previous 993's, which was key to the Turbo model being able to cope so easily with its prodigious power and torque outputs. It measures 4,435mm overall, stands 1,295mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,350mm. Wider rear wings are a trademark of the Turbo models and the 996 was no exception, other than Porsche used the opportunity to add air intakes either side to feed the turbochargers with cool air rather than using a large rear wing. The 996 Turbo's ducktail rear spoiler is quite dainty compared to the 993's and it has secondary spoiler that rises at speeds above 75mph to create extra downforce.
Turbo has much wider rear track than Carrera
The rear arches are 66mm wider than a standard 996 Carrera's and the Turbo has a rear track of 1,522mm. Underneath the spoiler sits a unique rear bumper with vents either side that help drag air in through the wing-mounted apertures to draw air through the turbo's intercoolers, while there's a pair of twin exhaust pipes with double pipes either side. The original Porsche exhaust has the smaller of the two exhaust pipes on both sides arching into the larger pipe.
At the front, the 996 Turbo has a 1,465mm track and its distinctive large air intakes either side of the smaller intakes beneath the number plate, and there's a lower lip spoiler beneath the bumper. There are plastic grilles in these intakes to keep some debris out, but the intakes can become clogged with leaves or let debris into the radiators and condenser behind. Some owners have fitted a mesh behind the plastic grille slats to lessen the chances of leaves getting through.
Powered wing is relatively modest
All 996 Turbos came with the later headlight style and have Xenon headlamps and clear indicator lenses. Check the lights are not misted with condensation and also inspect the front bumper and bonnet carefully for stone chips as they are prone to this damage.
In 2001, Porsche added electric releases for the bonnet and boot, which could be worked from inside the car or from the key fob. Further body stiffening was added in 2002, while 2003 saw a minor facelift in line with the rest of the 996 range. Then in 2004, the Cabriolet version arrived, tipping the scales at 120kg more than the standard coupe's 1,540kg. The Cabrio's roof is worked electrically and should rise and fold quickly and smoothly. Check the condition of the hood as a replacement will be pricey. A colour-matched hard top should come with the Cabrio as it was supplied with one from the factory as standard.
Owner's view
"The only issue I had was the hydraulic rams sticking on the pop up spoiler. It's a common problem and an OPC will ask a grand to replace it. Easiest and cheapest fix is to remove, regrease and refit. Usually lasts a few more months before it sticks again. Or get a fixed wing like the GT2."
Harris Irfan