With a classic charm, the Porsche 911 996 continues to prove time and time again that it can compete with modern sports vehicles.
The launch of the 996 was not sort of a fanfare moment among the 911 fans. As many reviews called it, the fried eggs headlights and a ‘bar of soap shape’ were not a hit.
Also, the switch to water-cooling, meant to comply with emissions regulations at the time, was controversial.
But surprisingly, the less-than-perfect start to life does not have any bearing on the 996’s current value. It is extremely fun to own, and most importantly, affordable. Overhyped technical problems and exaggerated horror stories about maintenance costs have kept the 996 away from many home garages, and most importantly, costs down.
Is the Porsche 911 996 Costly to Fix?
The 996 Carrera received the 3.4L flat 6 M96 engine in 1998, which was revised severally before the end of its production with a 3.6L in 2005. It is now more than two decades since the first generation Porsche 911 996 hit the streets, and during this time, the car has been raced, put apart, and reassembled countless times. That means a wealth of information on the common mechanical problems. Repairs are no longer costly as they used to be.
The 996 is easily upgradable in cosmetics and performance. The parts are readily available from Porsche, the used parts market, and from online third-party vendors. Although you can expect the 996 maintenance cost to be higher than a Japanese sedan, that does not mean it’s unmanageable. Besides, the 911 is a reliable vehicle.
Will the Value of the 996 Appreciate?
From the air-cooled 993 to the 996 Turbo, GT2, and GT3, the value of the classic Porsches continues to rise. There’s no reason why 996 should be any different.
Recently, there have been slight spikes in value to indicate that gearheads are finally opening their eyes to the 996’s advantages. Its great potential for modifications does not slice off part of its value but enhances it better than other 911s.
The 911 Carrera 996 Ownership Experience
Apart from the tag of the most budget-friendly 911, the 996 is a head-turner on the streets and a satisfying presence in the garage. You can walk in with your friends and stare at it like an expensive piece of art, feel its curves and enjoy its impressive looks by today’s standards.
The handling and ride quality, not to mention its array of modern comforts, is much more improved through the generations, and driving, especially the 3.6L S, is a bag of fun. Its short shifter not only enhances the overall driving experience but reduces any chance of a missed gear.
Surprisingly, the 996 is comfortably quicker than its air-cooled counterparts before it, and for added road security, later models have a switchable PSM.
The 996’s balancing has an almost child-like excitement to its fluidity and is perfect for regular use. Even though the running costs may be more than that of modern sports cars, at least at the moment, its mere presence and class are worth the price.
What are your thoughts on the 996? would you get one?
