996 C4S or 997 C2?

[Midgster]

Guys,
After a collective point of views on buying one of the above 2 cars. I've found 2 cars, both within £1000 of £25K, so price is near enough identical. Both cars done roughly the same mileage (approx 50K), both have full dealer/specialist service history's, both manuals, the C4S has PASM but the C2 doesn't. Rest of the spec is pretty similar. Both cars in fantastic condition. Both black with black leather.

My problem is I love both cars for different reasons

996 C4S
Pros - Wide Body, looks ace, I actually prefer the 4 wheel drive as I'm not brave/stupid/talented enough to be sliding a 911 round sideways, I think value shouldn't drop below current values (hopefully even rise in value)
Cons - Although actual car is a 2004, 996 are now nearly 20 years old in design and feels as such inside.

997 C2 - Build quality and car just seems a huge step up from the 996. It could pass as a 3 year old car.
Cons - Don't think prices have hit rock bottom.

I will be doing about 5000 miles per yer. Had many sports cars over the years (TVR, Lotus, M3 etc) but never scratched the childohood 911 itch, so nows the time.

Will probably keep the car for 2 - 3 year, maybe more. Question is, which one?

[Midgster]

Well thanks guys, no help what so ever

Everything everyone has said here I agree with 100%. I've read all about IMS problems, bore scoring etc and thinks there's risk with either...it's a Porsche so I'm ready for a big repair bill if it happens. Hopefully not.

The C4S is telling me it may well be the more sensible buy, depreciation wise, which although isn't an important factor, does come into the equation. I think it has more wow factor to look at and rarer than the C2, which are pretty common. But then I also agree, I was underwhelmed when I drove the C4S, this may sound crazy, but other than less body roll and more pointy front end, performance wise it didn't feel greatly different to the BMW 645 I'm currently driving (apart from being a manual) ! The C2 did feel like more of an event and just felt more special.

I am edging more to the 997 C2

[Midgster]

foz01 said:

Basically came down to the looks of the car, arguably the best back end on any 911, the fact they seem to have found a level that I can’t see them getting much lower, I know the C2S supposedly drives better but I prefer the looks of the 4S personally.

Agree completely! (although the 996 Turbo looks even better).

Think this is the first time I've ever had this dilemma. Have always known EXACTLY what car I was buying next. I may have to hedge my bets, buy the 996 C4S for now, keep it a year or so "hope" it doesn't lose much in value, then get a 997 C2.

If only I could stretch another £15K for the 996 Turbo they'd be no issue at all!