Rented a 2002 911 Cab. 4 wheel drive over Christmas while in Phoenix. Absolutely loved and have the bug to buy my first Porsche. Couple of questions. Finding the 2001 to be quite a bit cheaper than the 2002 right now. I understand the engine is bigger in the 2002. Is it worth waiting until the 2002 fit into the budget? Loved the feel of the four wheel drive but again a jump in price. Since this will just be a sunny day car anyway is it worth the added cost. It has been suggested that if I get a 2 wheel drive make sure that it has the stability mgmt system to keep me out of trouble. I am very mechanically inclined so could go with the 2001 and tweak it a bit.

Thoughts and advice for a newbe????????

 

I just bought myself a 2002 Carrera. Before this i spent months researching, and driving different years of carrera's. There actually is quite a bit of difference between the two. First off the engine, it is true that you are geting about 25 hp more, and 0.2 litres bigger, but not only does it feel stronger, Porsche have tried to fix theirRecurringproblem, a leak on the main seal. They made it much better in 02' but people still do come into some leaks, and it costs about $2000.00 to fix (still much less of a problem than pre-02'.
The 02' is also widened, and changed the air flow (bumpers, etc.) to help cool the brakes, and better aero-dynamics, plus made it much prettier with the front lights change. Best bet, spend the extra cash and get the 996 mark II.