Those who want to drive a Porsche 911 affordably will soon find the 996 generation. We give you five reasons why you should (not) buy such a car.
When the Porsche 996 appears, the criticism is not over the air. “Not a real 911,” is the inexorable verdict of foamy Porsche purists. From the water-cooled boxer engine to the completely new design of Harm Lagaay, which relies heavily on the more affordable Boxster, in their eyes there is really nothing good about the model.
The 996 generation is still not at the top of the list of most loved Porsches. And that is why it is still relatively affordable. But why should you (not) go for it now such a car to go?
Plus: a real Porsche 911
The Porsche 996 is a misunderstood multi-talent. The standard Carrera (4) is very accessible and combines sports car performance with great user-friendliness. The twin turbo models (Turbo, Turbo S, GT2) are extremely powerful and almost lavish for street use; by GT3 was developed for the racetrack and is just as spectacular beyond it. Don’t be fooled by all so-called Porsche connoisseurs: the 996 generation is a purebred 911.
Plus: favorable prices
Because it is so ‘hated’ by all kinds of connoisseurs, it is not a beloved Porsche. Currently, attention has been drawn to other model generations, such as the older 993 or newer 997. And that is why this 996 generation is still relatively affordable. It is by far the cheapest 911 you can buy, because prices start at € 20,000. Please note: then you are dealing with basic versions and high mileage. But also more special, younger and well-maintained 996s are much more affordable than many 911s.
Plus: user-friendly car
Like all Porsches, the 996 generation is a very user-friendly car. Anyone who wants to can easily drive a 911 like this every day. Moreover, at the time of its market introduction, it was much more practical than its predecessors. He got a more spacious interior with a better seating position for tall drivers. The dashboard was also much clearer than before and Porsche even supplied windshield wipers worthy of their name.
Minus: expensive to drive
By the way, do not let yourself be tempted by those ‘low’ purchase prices: the 996 – and a Porsche in general – is an expensive car to drive. That means that maintenance quickly becomes very expensive, and that you have to go to the garage more often than with the average Suzuki Swift. Regardless of the chosen version, motorization, mileage or year of construction, the presence of a conclusive and verifiable maintenance history is crucial for your wallet.
Minus: a lot of dubious imports
And that brings us to the fifth point on this list: all the dubious imports that appear on our market. This ensures that you will find a lot of 996s without maintenance history, so that you do not know what kind of car you are buying. A 996 with no history is a greater risk than investing in Greek government bonds: only suitable for politicians and professional gamblers. The best address for a good 996 is official Porsche dealers and brand specialists. Anyone who buys elsewhere or without a warranty must undergo a purchase inspection. Remember, a great 911 is never cheap – a bad one is a bottomless pit.
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Points of attention Porsche 911 996
- Important (because expensive) points of attention are leaking crankshaft seals, cylinder wall wear and play on the intermediate shaft bearing.
- Other possible defects are leaking expansion vessels and radiators and defective cooling fans. A choppy second gear indicates a tough life (and an upcoming baking overhaul).
- Tiptronic buckets and the 4WD system need fresh oil in time.
- A creaking front axle is usually due to worn wishbone or stabilizer rubbers.
- Check the operation of buttons, switches and comfort systems in the interior. Faulty electric windows can be expensive.
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