Your First Porsche 911? 996 C4S vs 997.2 C2 Compared

If you're looking to buy your first 911, and you don't want to fork out £90k for a new one - you're probably considering something like one of these two. Similarly in many ways but with some crucial differences, I compare my 2004 996 C4S with this 2009 997.2 Carrera and see which is worth your cash.
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[@johnwhodat8135]

The best first 911 is whatever you can afford.

[@Biggerfoot]

is it really tho

[@rehanbhatti8148]

@@Biggerfoot lol no

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Not true. The best one is the 1999.

[@ericl452]

@@bigmacdaddy1234 So true! I have a 99 C2 with a March 1998 build date. It has been tracked for literally thousands of miles. I tracked it at Road Atlanta yesterday. It has a total of 92k miles on the original engine, with the original double row IMS bearing, and gearbox. It is a perfect first track car. If I wreck it, I will buy another.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

@@rehanbhatti8148 Um Yes.

[@Engineerboy100]

I love my 996 Turbo and will never sell it. The interior being older doesn't bother me at all ... heck I'm old so we get on just fine :)

[@apt62]

Clint Hightower first thing that ages is always the tech. I like simple cars with zero techs.

[@wmhhealth2018]

I own a low mileage one owner 2000 996 cabriolet. I love it. It's the best car I've ever owned and every time I drive it I like it more and more.

[@mauricestainsby196]

Feel the same about my 996 C4S

[@garrettstrutz7421]

The 996 is the way to go such an analog pure driver they are starting to really climb in price now

[@RSTI191]

I drove my 996 TT for 13 years. Drove it like a rented mule. Kicked the shit out of it. Help up like the champ it was. The only thing I didn't care for was the long throw shifter. Other than that, I recommend one highly

[@joesmalley8421]

A useful comparison, but no one has seemed to mention the unique sound of the 996 C4S. It is unmistakeable, a raspy howl which is unlike any other 911. It’s so distinctive. For me it’s something that sets the 996 C4S and the 997 apart

[@alduncan4058]

I love these reviews, they remind me of top gear reviews when TG was a car programme.

[@thavashgovender4345]

Well, this fat bloke is pretty good

[@487shadow]

I like the sexiness of the 996 C4S, plus the egg lights make it unique and the red strip in the back is simply gorgeous. I like cars that are unique and that's the C4S!

[@grecopena]

Agree. The upgrade headlights look just fine and they work great. Plus the rear end looks fantastic. I have no complaints. My car runs get great. There are actually the few snobs that look down on the 996 but they love putting down the 996.2

[@chrisogrady28]

The base 997 is a painfully beautiful car, my favourite looking 911 ever

[@haveaseatplease]

Agreed, the 911's after the 993 version have lost there icon status due to mediocre design and the sheer production numbers.

[@bliglum]

@simon lloyd Nah, the air cooled were "Classic" 911, and the doors had a great clunk. But the interiors were more cramped, the upright windshield and droopy rear weren't exactly aerodynamic, it was all just more reminiscent of the humble Beetle roots.. More modern 911's have evolved beyond the humble bug. 997's got a lot right, smaller and more compact than the newest models, but sleeker and more refined, more usable and faster than the OG 911's.

[@nickvacirtzoglou4559]

bliglum you sir are right.

[@TheBentwrist]

Agreed. I have a 997.1 and I think they're the prettiest of the 911's. They're less brutal than the modern ones, although I also have a modern one too.

[@TheBentwrist]

Carrera S 3.8 tip@Levi

[@jonathanbircumshaw7902]

My 1st was the 996 c4s and in my opinion was the best looking I love the red reflector along the back.

[@grecopena]

Well done. I got a 2004 c4s cab with 100k miles last year from a one owner dealer serviced, 6 speed manual, 19" turbo wheels. Passed a detailed PPI with flying colors. Runs strong. It's my daily driver now with 120,000 miles! Still checking the original IMS like a hawk, but so far it's fine. Get oil analysis every old change.

[@HaxxorElite]

How did it go?

[@DrJ3RK8]

My first 911 was a 1972 911T Targa. Second was a 1983SC. I'm driving a '99 996 now daily. Absolutely love it! I've also had a 924 Turbo, 924S, 2 914s (70 and 73), and a Boxster. The 996 is my favorite. It's basically the perfect car IMO.

[@jdolger6634]

Very good video and it reflects a dilemma that I suspect many Porsche lovers encounter. I daily drive a 997.2 C4S after having owned a 996.2 C4S for many years. The 997 will slaughter the 996 in the straight line speed department and the cabin is a nicer place to be in. That being said, the road feel of the 996 is soooo much better than the 997, and in the twisties the 996 is every bit as capable as the 997. In addition, even with Porsche Sport Exhaust, I can barely hear the motor in the 997 - it's just a little bit too refined. In my opinion the 996 just gives you more steering feedback, more mechanical noise from the engine, more vibration in the seat that tells you what the car is doing. Even though it is a hated generation of 911 it is a very good car and actually quite stunning in person. A good condition low mileage 996 C4S can be had in the mid to low $30K range while a similar mileage 997.2 will cost you $60K at a minimum. For the money, the 996 is just a much better value. After driving the 997 for a year, I still miss my 996 everyday.

[@487shadow]

Agreed 100%. Everybody wants our 996 C4S sexy Porsche. I don't find many cars sexy, but this is one darn fine sexy bullet proof Porsche. I can't count the people who ask if we are selling our Porsche. Only 55,000 miles and it's a 2003. A blast to look at and drive.

[@gregs8685]

I had the same experience going from a 996 to a 997. My solution was to sell the 997 and get another 996!

[@pavelprunner8855]

I have a solution, buy a 996 alongside the 997. I do not regret getting 997.2 ut I am seriously thinking about it. Now it's the time because they will skyrocket as well. :) We will be looking back telling... if I only bought one when they were down and no one wanted them. :)))

[@johnnyboy1586]

You can always buy a 996 then do engine mods for more power?

[@colinmonk9113]

good rightup from an owner, the 996 turbo is a lovely porsche & deserves it's rightful place in the line up., i have a 997.2 turbo 6 speed manual quad exhausts black on black leather & is all you need in a 911turbo.

[@2005pierric]

My first Porsche was and is a beautiful 996 Gt3 MK2 Clubsport. With a few mods it is bloody brilliant !

[@rk5rk5rk5]

996 for me!

[@TheDemonThorn]

when the 996 is well kept i personally think it looks more sporty and aggressive than its 997 counter part.

[@brianmessemer2973]

Very nice review and discussion, I enjoyed it. Cool that you have 2 contrasting cars in the garage, I hope you keep them both for a while at least.

[@laowhy86]

This was excellent. Thank you for being so thorough.

[@AB-sr9mc]

literally just watched your video before coming here. what are the odds seeing you comment here too... haha

[@Nord_Mann]

@Ronin Gordon Now why would you do that you creepy bastard?

[@pavelprunner8855]

Hey JayEmm, just bought a manual 997.2 and watched this video again. I cannot agree with you more. Love the car. Great to listen to your opinions and reviews. Btw, lately, you are covering my dream garage with the Viper, manual R8, etc... Good job man and thanks. :)

[@foesfly3047]

Thanks for mentioning Powerflex! Huge savings for substantial suspension upgrades compared to Porsche OEM replacement components.

[@calibre18517]

Good video guys; helps me as I'm debating the two.

[@RobBoothAutomotive]

I love these comparative-style reviews, harks back to the M3 vs RS4 video that originally drew me to your channel!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

That was a very popular video, and I do like to do them but as you can imagine getting two cars organised for a review is quite tricky

[@Eggjuggler]

Good video. I have had Boxsters 986, 987 plus a range of 911's 996 Turbo powerkit, 997 Turbo, 996 C4S, 997 C4S. My 996 C4S actually had the fatal IMS issue and it was very SCARY, lots of clanging in the engine as the bearing bounced around then a pool of oil (out of the front of Halfords) that looked like a murder scene around the car. Porsche were amazing though. They recovered the car, flew a replacement engine in from Germany and fitted it within 2 weeks at zero cost (and the car wasn't even under warranty). This was all before the IMS issue was well known and I can't imagine they would still do this. Anyway my point is the 996 C4S is probably the most fun Porsche I have ever owned and once it had the new engine was totally awesome! I sold my car many years ago, however still keep an eye out on Autotrader in case it becomes on the market again. If you get a chance to get a well looked after 996 C4S go for it! (just make sure you get the IMS sorted out). Have Fun !

[@se11459]

Great write up. How does one sort the IMS?

[@seankeller8655]

I love your video reviews! Excellent comparison and perspective! 😀

[@remedy234]

996 C4S prices are going insane. I’ve been looking for 12 months and seen them increase £10k +

[@robertwilliams-gg1zq]

Great comparison and review, really enjoyed it.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks

[@MercedesCL500W215VLOG]

Nicely put together video my man! Great narration, honest and not full of hyperbole - just all relevant info. Cheers!

[@PaulMcCabe]

Thanks for the review, I’m thinking about buying my first Porsche soon and this has been helpful 👍

[@MrCarrera28]

Great video, when I first saw title I thought they weren't natural fits for a comparison but after your video I definitely saw that a potential buyer should consider both. As a 996 owner I have my preference of course :)

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Yes I think they certainly need to be considered as each one brings something different to the party

[@thedudeabides1443]

Having driven both of these cars, I'd still take my 987.2 Cayman S ; )

[@JayDutton]

Great review, I love my 996 C4s. I've had it nearly two years and only changed the oil and done the brakes. The previous owner did the IMS, clutch, etc. I love that I can get in and drive it like a modern car and has all the essentials like good AC, solid safety features, and reliability. I added Apple Carplay head which was a huge upgrade. I feel the speed is fast enough to satisfy me and the sounds and experience it delivers puts a grin on my face every time. I agree the 997 is better over all car but bang for buck of the 996 C4S can't be beat. I also love the rear end of mine, I wouldn't trade for a 997. I could possibly see myself stepping up to 991 someday but my C4S scratches that itch until then.

[@487shadow]

Jay, you got a great 911 C4S, just like mine. I love it. Plus if you have a manual, the stupid thieves don't know how to drive a manual. I keep my locked all the time. Less drag on the battery. LOCK LOCK LOCK!

[@carlfogle6517]

I’ve got an ‘04 C4S, convertible. I pulled the trigger on the full Fabspeed mod (intake headers and muffler) the power increase was substantial. Do this and you’ll never want to part with it. It’s not about the style, it’s about the drive brother.

[@prodrivebrasil]

Great review! Thank you!

[@MrGB1999]

997 is so pretty in black. Correct that the IMS issues are removed from the 997.2 but scored bores (cylinder cracking) can still beset a DFI so do your due diligence here (scope checks can see inside the cylinders) - I've also see that warranties are not covering this issue (because the rebuild job is so involved). For those interested in the 997, I'd point to the gen 1 3.6 (or base car). They seem to be less susceptible to bore scoring (less heat soak?) and all but the very early ones 2004 and early 2005, they included a revised IMS bearing design that is generally more reliable. I'd also recommend the use of a 50 grade engine oil to cope with the heat generated by this car. Hotter engine = scored bores? It's a theory but it made sense to me. Most of the LED facelifting seen in gen 2 can be more or less done with aftermarket lights. Even the steering wheel is an easy change and makes a big difference. Wonderful cars!

[@13ionic5ausage]

Not a fan of Porsche but I like the way this guy reviews and was entertaining so keep up the great work!!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thankyou

[@487shadow]

@@JayEmmOnCars He's professional!!!!!!

[@MrPoiz2]

That bit with the 997 sound was GLOOOOORIOUS👏👏

[@Justinyoon12345]

I like the 1999 headlights

[@angi733]

People who say you can't make use of the extra power.... mostly BS - of course you want more power, like the rest of us. Esp when a hot hatch is so fast now!

[@1949bug]

Loving the north essex countryside, I know all those roads well. Great video as I’m currently trying to choose between these two, Thanks for making this.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

My pleasure. Happy to take you out in the 996

[@M5S]

Very well explained! Good video!

[@haldoglife]

Very much enjoyed this video. Great content here so I subscribed!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thankyou!

[@Engineerboy100]

Whichever one you get you need to make sure the coolant pipe fittings are pinned as I found out the hard way. Here's what I did to fix a pipe pop-out! kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4aqfYmAma2AaJo

[@hugohugo2832]

Mine was a 98 3.4 C2. Loved it. Then got an 03 C4s. Sure footed but less fun. Now I’ve got an 02 Turbo. Wicked.

[@GTStuning-]

Thanks for the video

[@charlesmcguffy]

That steering wheel could be had with buttons. Even the Cayman had that as an option. It's a really useful feature and one I wouldn't want to be without. Only issue is that the right scroll wheel works in the opposite way to that which you'd expect!

[@user-jy8mo5fi5q]

I purchased my 2003 Porsche 996 Cabriolet with manual 6 speed gar box in August 2023. It was a low mileage example with the garage purchased from having just had the IMS done together with some other issues at the same time. Given a copy of the invoice to prove. Because of the low mileage it wasn't cheap but listening to prices you give on here I haven't overpaid for it. The low mileage showed up in the fact the only wear at all shown was on the drivers seat and that is very little. I put a new set of tyres o it because of the age of the tyres already on the car and that improved handling tremendously. Am I pleased with my purchase, absolutely.

[@DutchManticore]

I like the rear reflector of the 996.4s so much, but the 997 headlights are so much better

[@CharlieDrives]

Miss this car soooo much 😭😭😭😭

[@georgeapplegate2091]

Cheers for the info about the dfi engines on the 997.2 , worth making a mental note of. A friend bought a special edition 996 c4 anniversary edition which saw the output rise to 345 brake, its surprisingly quick with my c63 pulling past at not the sort of pace i was expecting!

[@m0rsch]

Hi, the car of your friends likely will not be a C4 but a Carrera 40 Jahre 911. It has the turbo front, GT3 side skirts and comes with the x50 power kit.

[@user-gz8fk9eo6u]

I just bought a 996 Carrera 4 , I’m absolutely in awe of it 👌

[@ccasche5088]

'99 C4 manual here. Thoroughly enjoy it.

[@denzellneblett-marson7363]

I hear the 4 is just as fast as the 4s is that true?

[@voqzmk2]

I like the C4S a lot more, the headlights look different and amazing and it looks more sporty and more aggressive

[@ganthrithor]

I split the difference and got a 997.1 C2: - Closer in price to 996 - Looks great inside and out - ~320hp and likes to rev - "Conventional" suspension (no electronics to fiddle with, although I think gen 1 PASM was available as an option-- maybe only on the S?) I love my first-gen 997-- it's a perfect daily driver / do-anything car. It's also right at the edge of usable performance for public roads IMHO.

[@tserzz]

I've had both but still got the 996, love the Le Mans racing style. Best of the old and new in one. The 996 very good to drive feels more solid a more all weather road fighter a raw urban looking porsche, the 996 style is just fab. The 997 just didn't do it for me, a nice car but it didn't connect it seemed to feel like other cars in a different shape. The 996 is seriously the last of the great road icon 911s the 996 designer a genius it's still looks awesome.

[@fourwheeltrader]

Thanks for the video. I like that you cover also the more technical aspects of the car and the aspects which are often not covered in normal reviews. A while ago I made a video about the depreciation of the various 996 models using some machine learning models. While the 4S already rose in value quite significantly, I think there is still room to buy one of the normal versions without facing any depreciation.

[@minnaala-mantila929]

👌

[@ruslanivanov2620]

I love the 997

[@javansarmiento7151]

Thank you, lots of good info. I am looking for a 997.2 Manuel. I want the sports Chrono package, aero kit would be a big plus, and a nice set of wheels changes the cars look

[@713vinh]

What a fantastic video. The 997 is the winner for me.

[@qikqbn77]

You touched on the steering feel between the two. I will add a bit more emphasis on the All wheel drive of the C4S making a big difference in the weight of the steering. I have a 997.1 C4S and the steering feel in the C4S models are noticeably heavier and more precise than a 997.1 C2S or 997.2 C2. The added hardware and weight over the front end of the car make a very nice difference in steering feel and handling. Turns in much sharper as well. Less understeer.

[@mehmetkaraata4999]

wanted to buy a porsche since i was 18. now 54, i have been looking seriously for the past year. ive a;ways driven a mercedes. am i ready for this? YES!

[@grecopena]

Pay for a PPI from a respected Porsche mechanic and if it passes buy it. You will be glad you did.

[@franciscotoro9454]

I am delighted with the headlights. It is the only 911 model that shares headlights with a Le Mans winning Porsche. The 1998 GT1.

[@713vinh]

You forgot to add the Boxter.

[@hugohugo2832]

I’d recommend mid price between these two, a 996 Turbo.

[@chrislondon9416]

996 Turbo before it gets too expensive..!

[@blackwater3802]

Thanks for the reviews, very helpful, would edit out some footage of the exhaust pipes, don't see or hear any advantage

[@arned2493]

Mr. Whodat below is absolutely correct. My 2011 997.2 C2S PDK w/ bypass exaust is sublime. The mid-range torque, especially going through curves with elevation on the highway is something I wish on every 911 owner.

[@brianlum4363]

I miss my 996 C4S. Easily the best looking 996.

[@naughtynightlifeasia7317]

Nice review. But we do really need a load more exterior shots pointing out the differences.

[@georgeapplegate2091]

Good video..There was a 996 anniversary edition with 345 brake. A bir rare but a bit gruntier than the 320 brake 3.6. ive just bougth a c63 and somehow keep hankering after a 997 c2s even thought its about 50 brake down and doenst sound half as good. Carry on the good work , youre one of the better, more fluent car youtubers !

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thankyou!

[@TorqueSportsEngineering]

My 2009 has 71,000 miles and still feels new. Build quality is superb.

[@ryanmccormick2150]

I really enjoyed that James, I absolutely love 911's I'd take 964 c4 🙂

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Ryan!

[@ryanmccormick2150]

@simon lloyd your a lucky boy!

[@713vinh]

@King Brilliant 964 had poor engine design that was prone to leaking oil.

[@johneaton25]

I waited for a 4 wheel drive 911 alllllll the way through the 1970’s, 1980’s and finally got one in 1991 and found out it was an understeering little shite! As they say, don’t meet your hero’s ☹️

[@jamesdrichardson3447]

Jayemm,.....Nice review here,......your next comparison must be a 997.1 or 2 against a 987 Cayman S and compare the handling with the differing rear/mid engine layouts. I think you'll be amazed at the capabilities of the Cayman S against its bigger brother. 😉

[@jimknowles5483]

Yes Jay! The comparision would be keenly outstanding! just jim

[@PaulLukeBonenfant]

My 996 is at 157k miles and counting and it’s still solid as a rock

[@OneTimeProfile]

PSA to any and all 996 owners!!! If you truly want your car to sound amazing and have that signature flat 6 howl, you need an X-pipe! No amount of muffler work will change the base note of the car because it just sounds like two inline 3 engines over each other. Once you cross the pipes, you get a gorgeous 6-cylinder howl. References: kzbin.info/www/bejne/emTXqHavh9JjipI kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZmycmOMlLRkna8

[@richardbenjaminjoy9404]

You are a great reporter with a great voice. I would really like to see you as a pressenter onbbc top gear. Greets Richard

[@everycarSeattle]

Both are great choices but I'm a big believer in the 1995 as the perfect 1st Porsche...followed by the 1987.

[@TheWolvesCurse]

why these specific model years? what's better about a 1995 993 than on any other model year 993?

[@banburylitho4068]

Just bought my first 911.. a 966.. what a hoot to drive!

[@matharris7673]

I went for a 997 Gen1 2007. Manual C2 which is the best value Porsche and naturally aspirated! No IMS issues on these later models but with all the bad coverage out there, has scared many off and kept values low. With induction unit and Gundo hack it’s livened up no end. Lively, sporty and great fun.

[@darrendevolin3720]

Isn’t the ims still an issue in the normally aspirated 911’s until 2009 dfi was introduced?

[@dheningt]

And 997.1s have become notorious for bore scoring issues. Hope that didn’t bite you

[@WobblePizza]

I went 996 C4S with no regrets but I love the 997.2 also. Really is a tough call.

[@jamest5149]

@11:42 The heat shield behind the bumper is loose - this may be adding to your rattles.

[@shankarbalan3813]

What a sound!

[@pjvenda]

Good discussion, I find the conclusion quite logical. To be fair I would have e bought a gen2 Carrera S if I could have afforded it. Instead I really love my gen1 Carrera S which I have tweaked slightly over time (wavetrac, light weight flywheel, engine mounts, etc). It's getting a bit tyring though to hear that people hate the 996. They don't, certainly not those who know and appreciate the cars for what they are. And 996s are selling better than ever, reaching many drivers who otherwise could not afford a 911. Check out May Watson's video series and Jethro Bovingdon's piece about his own 996.

[@ken_in_atx9619]

Here in the US 996 C4S prices have shot through the roof in 2020. You can now pick up a similar mile base Carrera 997.2 for a few more $$ than a 996 C4S.

[@williamhnicholsoniv]

That C4S is sweet.

[@wesleycarusos8225]

I just bought a 2002 C2 6-speed. I also have a 2000 986s 6-speed. I hear a lot of criticism about the interior but I really like it. The interior on my Boxster is full leather it smells like heaven. I also don't mind the headlights I don't like the fried eggs but the fully clear I love. Anyway I'm very new to the 911 but very excited. I wonder what mods were done to that exhaust I think it sounds wonderful.

[@Audidude]

Good review - no nonsense and good knowledge. "back in an era when the regular car was the best one to get" - agree100%. The number one reason to buy a 996/7 HAS to be the drive - OK some will want the pose-value, but for me and many others it's all about the drive. And there are a few essentials in that: connection, involvement, feedback, and just good old Thrill - and to maximise those you need a lightweight 2WD manual - that puts the "regular car" at the top of the list. Wide body AWD? Nah - extra weight, and you can't see it when you're driving anyway. Those weighty front driveshafts and the torque they produce degrade the steering from the pure connection of the C2. so that's 996.1 or .2 - the .1 is the purest as it has mechanical throttle rather than electronic - but that's about it. It feels peakier on the top end, possibly revs out better, but that's mostly because it has less torque lower down. The improvements to the 996.2 engine are worth having except for one: they changed from a dual ring IMS to a single one, which increases the chances of failure from about 3-5% to more like 6-8% - easy fix: change it for an aftermarket such as LNE. You might have guessed by now that I have a 996.2 C2 manual - pure driving pleasure!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Excellent choice sir

[@thelongnguyens]

Hi guys, I'm a JDM guy looking into Porsche. What's your thoughts on a well balanced MR Cayman S? Or a 996.2 C2 is a better choice?

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I have a real soft spot for the Cayman, definitely worth trying

[@Audidude]

Long Nguyen JDM? Well I have a JDM DC2R race car, and a factory original ‘96 JDM DC2R 50,000mi. Stunning driver’s cars every bit as much fun and as rewarding as a 911, but totally different. If you want something more diametrically opposed to that, the 911 is the way to go. That rear bias of power and balance is a completely different experience. For one, there’s traction! Something the FWDs can only dream about. A Cayman is a better balanced handler but it’s that out of balance feel of the 911 that makes it more thrilling. Drive both. You won’t be disappointed in either, but the differences will be clear. Everyday, maybe Cayman, weekend warrior, probably 911.

[@ukwan]

The 996 C4S and Turbo models look great, also the 996.1 GT3.. But the rest of the 996 range is a bit ugly, but doesn't detract from the fact they're amazing cars.

[@MrRoyck10]

The 997 is a far better option budget apart, it looks better, drives better and is more efficient than the 996. It is only budget that can justify purchasing a 996, the 997 will age better in the future.

[@jonathanmoga5188]

Lol

[@allanlai_]

Do you find yourself seated higher in the 996 than 997? I can sit really nice and low in my 997 with shoulder just below top of the door but in 996 at lowest position my shoulder is still above the door...

[@JoJoJoker]

Thanks, nice video comparo.

[@yueibm]

Between my 997 and 996, I feel the 996 interior (black) is more fitting of a sports car than the 997 (sand beige). The instrument cluster is in a prominent pod, and the center stack is pushed out from the rest of the dashboard.

[@DeanoTXR53]

Not a lot of people talk enough about how the 996 3.6 is really a mid-range car. Glad you have. It's a huge part of the character of the car. Ive recently decatted my 996.2 for track days with an x-pipe and now the whole character is reversed. NOTHING happens between 3-4k, significant losses in power... But just as you hit 4k you are met with a wave of power that builds and builds through 7k. The engine suddenly LOVES to rev, it feels angry and aggressive now. It's a glorious experience on track, but it's a lot more work on the road. There's no short shifting and riding the torque on a 6/10s fun-run down your favorite back road. You must flog the car hard, or not even bother.

[@shaunleecollins778]

The 996.2 C4S is most definitely a future classic that will appreciate significantly. The four wheel drive system is very good,. Excellent choice for a daily, especially for winter! The speedo issue really isn’t an issue in my opinion, it is very small on the 996.2 - the 996.1 had a much easier to read digital speedo. I agree with regards to the Bose sound system in the 996, it’s very much improved in the 997! Very much so.

[@TheTikituoces]

Shaun Collins joü

[@jordanedouglas]

I love cars so much!!

[@joelsmith9311]

JAMES! JAMES! JAAAMMMES! I know this is an old video but I just bought my first Porsche and I NEED TO TELL PEOPLE! It’s a MINT (no it’s not green, just in great condition) 996 Carrera 3.4 in manual from 1998 - cable operated throttle and basically my dream car. So yeah! Basically that means I’ve made it and I’m very proud of myself given I spend most of my money on women and alcohol. 😇

[@thomprd]

If you're having front end bobbing and weaving, then you may have either a suspension issue or your front tires aren't very sticky. My front end improved tremendously with a new control arm and Pilot Sport PS4's. I drove my 996 back to back with a 997.1 and I actually really prefer the 996 interior because it feels vintage rather than just dated. I think it's aged a lot better than the 997.1 interior. I prefer the driving experience of my 996 to the 997.1 and the 991.2 that I've driven. My 996 does have aftermarket springs on it, though, so it's really planted and lowered a bit. I also think your engine isn't quite running right. My 996 pulls hardest and sounds incredible between 6 and 7k rpm's.

[@clubracer6]

Ronald Thompson could not agree with you more!

[@Sam-mw5hx]

Wow make more videos like this!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I will if I can!

[@acchaladka]

“Because I’m a tart...”. 🤣 I’d like to see you repeat this comparison format with 1980s Porsche models. I just got 944 turbo and am mightily impressed even though front engined.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

944 turbo is an excellent car

[@mohawk5010]

I may be completely wrong, but I think 996 models will actually go up in value in the next 10 years. As new cars no longer have that mechanical feel and sound, every Porsche from before the 992 will start to look good by comparison.

[@DeanoTXR53]

As a 996 owner, I hope youre right... But I really think there is no way that happens to anything but a few very specific models that people seem to prefer just because of aesthetic reasons (the c4s). They made 175,000 996. Thats simply too many to make a standard C2, or targa, or cabrio, worth much of anything ever.

[@beetleything1864]

992 ? No such animal. & your wrong. The engine and all its design problems will never go away and the interiors are cheap.

[@DeanoTXR53]

@@beetleything1864 Yes 992. Have you been living under a rock lately? en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_992

[@Johnmcs1]

Very good review James. I have a 2011 997.2 C2 PDK. Mine has the Sports Chrono Plus, Sports Exhaust and Sports Steering Wheel. The Sports Chrono makes a massive difference to the PDK box, without it I would not have considered it. I do agree the 996 does feel similar to the 997 in many ways, albeit I used own a 2004 C2 996 not a C4S you compared here. I also do agree, on the road there is really little difference to justify the 99.2 Carrera S, maybe on a track you'd feel the difference. Suffice to say a 996 or 997 C2 will have you in trouble with the law in no time at all if you push on a little.

[@ciko_pancho8982]

John, did you compare the chrono pack 997.2 compared to a non-chrono pack 997.2? Im currently in the market for a Porsche now and have come across a very neat 2011 997.2 Carrera with PDK and chrono pack. I havent test driven it yet. Would you mind providing more info on your experience with your car. I have also found a 996 Turbo and a 2008 997.1 4S which I am also considering as they are all in a similar price range. Cheers mate

[@Johnmcs1]

@@ciko_pancho8982 I didn't get to drive a pdk car without the Chrono. But I was convinced the pdk would be better with mainly due to being able to change from normal mode to sport and sport plus modes. These mode will quicken up the throttle response, gear changes and make a huge difference. Sports, plus will hold onto the gear until it hits max revs. My feeling if you want a car with pdk it has to have the chrono pack too.

[@ciko_pancho8982]

John McSweeney I went for a test drive in the 2011 997.2 C2 (PDK + Chrono) and it was absolutely beautiful! An amazing car inside and out. Very impressed. Another car on my radar is a 997.1 S Manual + Chrono. I’ve found a very well factory speced example which has perked my interest. In the same ball park as the 997.2 for $$$. After endless reading forums online, it seems as though the 997.2 is the better option for the money.

[@Johnmcs1]

@@ciko_pancho8982 after 6 months of ownership now and I am still looking for excuses to go anywhere in the car. You won't really be disappointed by the 997.2 or the 997.1 S. They really are great cars.

[@jasonkent3658]

I myself don't want any controls on the steering wheel. And I absolutely require a clutch pedal myself I'd choose 997.2

[@danielpan5147]

Excellent...

[@tomhunt1733]

I have a 2004/40 anniversary 9962 it’s kind of a rare car and doesn’t get much mention so I would like to know what your opinion is on this vehicle and it’s a potential value in the future?

[@TheWolvesCurse]

i like the widebody appearance of the 996, but i prefer the rearwheeldrive of the 997. both great cars.

[@cintra2]

I really love the look of the 996.2 love it. I was some months before, thinking to buy a second 911 for a daily car, actually I own a 997.2 gts that I love it too much, now its the time for shopping for a 996.2, prices are rising year by year.

[@officerponcherrello1182]

Any chance you can review the c4s against a current (2015 onwards) Audi TTS s-tronic? In all seriousness I am looking for my next car and have a current TTS which contrary to belief isn’t the hair dressers car I was led to believe. It’s no slouch but I have always longed for a 996 c4s or a 997 and my current lease is up soon. Great review by the way.