996: RWD or AWD?
 

I registered to make this post, so allow me to introduce myself... I'm badreplicant, named for an amusing episode of ATHF.

Wanting a car that looks gorgeous, goes like stink, and is sized properly for one person and a load of groceries (sorry, boxster :)), I first looked at the BMW 135. It was love at first sight until I saw what Canadian dealers want for them. So what else meets my requirements? Well, here I am... I initially thought the 911 to be well out of my league, but it turns out there's a fairly decent trade in used vehicles.

So I'm getting a pre-2002 996: it's just a question of which one.

At first I had pretty much written off the C4 as being out of my price range, but I've found that, if I'm willing to have a few more miles on the odometer, they're still attainable.

So then: RWD or slightly higher mileage AWD? How is the handling: more forgiving, more predictable? This would be the first serious car I've ever owned, so I think I'd welcome that. Does anyone have any subjective assessments?

I know the AWD adds some weight and robs some power, but is it safe to say that the difference is minor? Besides, I'm pretty sure it will be capable of kicking my ass either way... thoughts?

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Go for the AWD. Better launch, cornering, etc.

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

I agree with cmilam.

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

I would think with all the snowduring Canadian winters AWD is a must.Put on a set of snow tires, and you will be able to climb walls.

As far as performance, I doubt you will notice much difference unless you spend time on a track. I can dive into corners with reckless abandon in my C2, no need for AWD here in Seattle. We do get some snow, but not that much, which is when I drive my4X4 truckanyway.

Happy Driving,

Kevin

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

I agree with other Forum Members if you are going to be regularly facing snow and ice then AWD makes great sense.
If you are only going to use the car on a planned basis, outside of the snow and ice season (however having worked in Michigan that can be any time!) then 2WD gives you a little more performance and improved fuel consumption.
However test driving the 2 options should be a bit of fun to help you decide.
Regards Big Bob

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Yep, defintely better in the snow than a 2s

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

:DBut not in the dry Hot911TT
Big Bob

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

true

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

I've never had an AWD. Since my car only sees dry roads, my 2s is just fine. Agree that a 4s is much better in snow conditions

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Now look here Mr Milman, I think you speak with forked tongue. Looking atthe picture of your car the driveway looks distinctly wet and there is snow in the background:D:D:D
Big Bob

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Thanks for all the responses. While I was planning to keep my truck around, it's nice to know that the C4 is a serviceable winter vehicle if fitted with the right tires.

I think I've found my vehicle - if this C4 comes out the PPI looking alright, I'll be driving it today.

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Good catch BB! Just took it out for pics. It went right back in the garage.;)

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

busted cmilam!:D

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

I can't really talk, when its wet (not unusual in the UK!) I use the Smart. Seems not so much of a worry with plastic body panels[sm=signs007.gif]
Big Bob

[IMG]local://upfiles/4813/B66B58125306494788DDD61B061FFE00.jpg[/IMG]

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

The four wheel drive is a plus from several perspectives, particularly as you are going to be facing snow occasionally. I also consider it a must-have on really powerful cars: its very difficult to put more than about 200-250 HP down through a tire, so around 400-500 HP, it becomes mandatory to have 4-wheel drive in my opinion.

However, you indicate you are on something of a budget and you might consider that the 2 wheel drive is likely to be less costly to own: you can buy lower miles/better condition initially, and then there are fewer parts, etc.,to maintain, too. My own rule is never buy a car used I could not have afforded new: recipe for major headaches.

As far as going like stink, Suburu and Mitsi make the EVO and Sti, both in the $35K range new in the US, both with 4-wheel drive, and both faster than a 2000-2002C2 Porsche off the line and through the quarter. They are ugly (or at least, not pretty) and more rally car than track car, but they will carry groceries and go through snow and when drivenwell they are incrediblly fast and frustrating for owners of cars costing tens of thousands more who can't keep up.

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Lee--not sure how many people on this forum can afford a new $80K Porsche. The thing I have found about Porsche owners (in general) is that they take very good care of their cars. It's not like buying a used Ford, Suburu or Mitsi. I've rarely seen a 3-4 yr old beaten down Porsche (my opinion)

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

You're right about that cmilam. I bought my 04 Turbo used for $80K at the time with only $15k miles--it was new!!. Icouldn't afford the $130K new. I certainly don't subscribe to the logic ofneverbuying a used car if you can't afford it new. I saved $50K and bought a new SUV and Harley--go figure. I also wouldn't own an mitsi or suburu as a substitute for a performance sports car. I'd rather get a 2 year old Mercedes sports coupe for $35K.

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Now Lee, what would you ay about the GT2. In my youth when I was all mouth and no experience I could have said "Now a man would drive the GT2 while a boy would go for the Turbo":D:D:D.
But you are right in these power leagues the 4WD is a key safety ingredient, but 2WD does win on mechanical efficiency and fuel consumption[sm=icon_rock.gif]https://www.germanautoforums.com/upf.../icon_rock.gif
Regards Big Bob

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

The GT2 is faster than the Turbo but everything I have read (never driven one) says it takes much more skill to drive at the limit with just the 2WD, so in this respect it is really a streetable race car.

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Well, I purchased the C4.

Lee: you're quite right that I could have purchased a less-used C2 for the same price. But the suggestions of others have gone the other way, and a few thousand miles here or there probably won't make the difference.

As for your rule: that's a matter of personal preference I guess. There's no way I could afford a new Carrera, but another way of looking at it is this: how much car can I get for $X? A used 911 is, in every sense except size itself, a whole lot of car for the money.

I could get a new Evo or STi for just a little more... or I could look at American muscle, which gets you more torque for the dollar than anything else out there... etc. But I liked the 911, I wanted it, and now I have it :)

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Congrats on your C4--sounds like you're happy with the purchase and that's all that matters. Can't imagine taking anyone's advice when I was out shopping for my car. It's personal preference. Enjoy the ride!

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

way to go!

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Good choice but the slim butt of the 2WD is something to behold[sm=groupwave.gif]
Big Bob

RE: 996: RWD or AWD?
 

Hello everyone, my name is Jack and I am a new member. I currently own a couple of MB's but the wife likes the 911 Convertible. I have a question for any of you that may have the knowledge. How much is a 2006 C4S worth with 34k miles or what should I expect to pay. The car is really clean but it is not at a Porsche dealership do any of you see that being a problem? sorry for so many questions

thx JJ