996 3.4 or 3.6

[5STM5]

Right, here's the dilemma. I viewed both a 2001 3.4 and a 2002 3.6 996 today.
Both cars are convertibles, and both around 65000 miles.
The 3.4 has fully documented history including old receipts, the 3.6 service history stamps start at 28000 miles but are good after that. 3.4 is £1500 cheaper.

I haven't owned a 911 before, but have read not so good reviews on the 3.4 engines.

Can any experts advise me on which would be the best buy?

Thanks

[LordHaveMurci]

What are the 'not so good' reviews you have read? Had my 3.4 for 3.5yrs now & love it.
Sounds like the 3.4 is the better of the two you have looked at?

[911 (997)]

Stamps starting at 28k starts alarm bells ringing. Forget that one and keep looking if you need to.

[jonny996]

Good question as I am about to have issue, apart from headlights and engine, is there any thing else

[5STM5]

Reviews are that 3.4 engines are prone to cracked cylinder heads and slipped cylinder liners, leading to engine replacements. Costly if I buy a 3.4 that hasn't had the engine changed.
But I think I'll steer clear of the 3.6 I saw today. Strange that there was no service history prior to the 28 k mark.

[Fastfred]

jonny996 said:

Good question as I am about to have issue, apart from headlights and engine, is there any thing else

Lots of changes under the skin = e gas, proper traction control (I think), electric boot and hood release, optic cable sound system etc.

I kept my 3.4 for nearly 4 years ans apart from the dreaded RMS and a failed DMF I thought it was a wonderful car. It was a C2 with optional LSD ;-)

[LordHaveMurci]

Research 3.6's, I think you'll find similar horror stories about them too.
Buy a decent car, have it inspected first then enjoy it

[AndyT955]

All the engines have got problems, the 3.4 has got different ones to the 3.6. I have a 3.4 which is looked after by Hartech for several years under the maintenance plan.

I've read the horror stories about engines going bang and its obviously no joke if it happens to you. Having discussed the issues with Hartech about preventative maintenance, they led me to believe the 3.4 is no more or less likely to go bang, it seems to be luck of the draw. Although it does seem important to have very regular oil changes, mine has had the low temp thermostat as well fitted as a Hartech recommendation and they seem to put a slightly more viscous oil in than the standard, this in combination with the lower temp thermostat has raised the oil pressure significantly on tick over.

IMHO I think the answer to your question is to buy either that is backed up by a comprehensive service history with bills and have it inspected , get some engine cover or budget for emergencies and enjoy it safe in the knowledge that you paid a fraction of what the original owner did.