Great to see the 996 get some appreciation! I have a Turbo: bulletproof engine, bonkers fast but civilised at regular speeds. Thoroughly recommend one, or any 996 in good condition👍
Porsche 996 C4S are great, I have owned mine now for over 2 years now, but I have used big $ on my car. All work done at Porsche Classic center, rebuild engine to 3.9L, AOS, IMS, RMS every possible upgrade to engine, radiators +++ Suspension to öhlins + every bushings + balljoints. Full Kline exhaust system, upgraded interior with hardback sport seats, new OEM red seat belts, Porsche PCCM, repaint brake calipers, all brake line new + brake disc + pads +++ I was considering to buy new Porsche 992, but I think its cooler to own 996 C4S I love the look of this car :) Cant understand why people dont like the headlights + the rear of C4S are very nice. + newer Porsche looks too big
Sorry, but for the asking price the 996 is not that great. Terrible interior ergonomics. Too cramped inside. Your leg hits the dash, the door sill is too high for your elbow to rest on. The center console is a mess. The shifter is too far forward, no decent cupholders. Back seats are useless. Drivers seat is not comfortable enough. The car is too expensive to fix and it does not drive all that great. If it were half the price it would be great, but it's not. The juice ain't worth the squeeze.
@@KingReza I agree with no e of this guys points apart from the lack of cup holders . However , When I’m buying a 20 year old sports car cup holders are not a high priority 😂
Buying a low mileage one owner 986S, a Boxster, when prices were absolutely bottomed out in 2016 continues to be my biggest car coup. I have got to have some of those sport technic wheels.
Change the airbox and throttlehouse of the 996 or of a Cayman get big horsepower jump .and take out the snorkel if you like sound.boxster rule mid engine
This car was done by Friends Green Porsche for the customer. Anyone thinking the bill is excessive needs to watch the video, or all of their videos, to see why customers choose them to service cars like this. The work performed was obviously done to meticulous perfection and, as a result, the owner will enjoy many stress-free miles. The work included the PCCM, exhaust bits, interior package, etc. Not just a "mechanical refresh." If I were in Europe they'd be doing mine too. Great video as always, Jay. Spot on closing remarks.
I think you've highlighted an issue I have with todays supercars in general. I genuinely think fun drivers cars reached their peak in the 2000s. After you get beyond 500-600bhp, it's much harder to enjoy one fully on public roads. Can't beat an old fashioned un-strangled lump with a manual gearbox. This car is from a time when turbos were only there for one purpose, to give you a kick in the back. Btw, this is the best far channel full stop, thank you!
The rear reflector makes it actually look like the traditional Porsche. Air cooled cars all have it and that's a big part of their appeal. This version is the best looking 996 hands down. Air cooled prices are already out of reach from most car enthusiasts but the 996 prices are ridiculously low. These are seriously undervalued. Amazing sports car bargains.
Your 100 percent correct about the rear reflector, its reminiscent of the air cooler cars and that's why I love it so much. The 1996 in this spec is simply beautiful.
@@blairwilliams136 996 4S rear is absolute perfection. Only 993 has better looking rear end ... that fat ass... (especially the widebody S-model) but this is much nicer than any of the newer versions (997, 991 and 992). I want one so much.
Scratched a very big itch last year and obtained a 996 40 Jahre. Appreciate all comments about C4S and the 996 in general. The ‘I don’t like the 996 because of…’ brigade are just going to miss out on the greatest sports car bargain of our times. My 40 Jahre: not silly money, looks fantastic but, big but, with X51, LSD and M030 is a fabulous drive. Just fabulous - especially on UK ‘B’roads. Also, it’s my daily driver.
this was the one i was waiting for .....Cracking Video for Easter. I have a C4S silver over black and many owners of pre and post 996's have said to me that its the only one of the 996 era they would own. Everyone seems to like the C4S. I think its because most people see it from the back and its the best rear 3/4 of any Porsche - hands down.
Interesting comparing this car with the 992. I can agree with what you said about Porsche often being less expensive for parts. Not always, sometimes their pricing leaves me scratching my head it’s so ludicrous.
The 996 a great drivers Porsche all weather long distance sports tank. Love the sleek racing style take lights over the Cod eyes. Go the raw analogue 996. A Pinky Lai artform Icon !
“Car Obsessed, flamboyant, fat man”, this is one of the reasons I enjoy watching you videos so much. You make fun of yourself and don’t care what other think. More power to you Sir! Keep up the great work, enjoying the videos.
I always loved those C4S of the 996 generation, the rear flanks are feminine but agressive. That and a 987.2 are genuine future classics of good value now. Greetings from Portugal! Keep the good reviews
I owned a gorgeous midnight blue/gray 996 C4S (6 speed manual, Sport Techno wheels, white gauge faces) for about 6 years. The only 'modification' I made was replacing the air-box with a large K&N cone filter. Yes, the interior was far too plasticky for the price-point, but it was always wonderful to drive and nearly bulletproof.
For those watching from outside the uk. Dont be too discouraged if you find a version you like with m030. I will agree that the suspension is too harsh but that is more an indictment of road quality in the uk. It would be perfect for Spain for instance. Oh...also consider installing the 997.2 gt3rs gearshift (not the ssk). It made a world of difference to mine and is a 1:1 replacement; easy install)
I’ve had one of these for 4 months and I’m in love with it. I haven’t driven the 992 I just go by the car I drive and it’s bloody magnificent. I had brackets installed which have given me about 5-6 inches extra legroom, So it’s now absolutely perfect.
Yes, I've got a C4 996. Granted, I'm trying to move on to something else, but after nearly 10 years of enjoyment (and a Hartech rebuild), I've loved the thing :) Won't be my last Porsche either.
Great video. Miss my C4s to this day. Had one a few years ago. Did some serious miles in it. Fun to drive, great noise and plenty quick enough. The rise in revs and urgency at 5500+ rpm was missed in your video. Almost like a second cam. That was the bit of the Rev range I loved the most. 996 C4s encourages you to drive and the harder you push the more reward you’d get. Never had any issues with it, solid and dependable. I loved my car. 👍🏽
I agree - surprised there was no mention of the step up at high revs - my 997 c2s is glorious at the top end (and the lower end, and the mid range for that matter). Perhaps the engine in this particular car is past its best.
Great points in there, I’m doing the same with my 997, bringing it back to life and enhancing where I can. Videos like this inspire me when I’m skint and loosing faith! Hopefully I’ll get you in it when it’s done.
I was going to sell my 997.1 S because they command so much right now, but I have reconsidered and are now in the process of refurbishment and improvement instead. I think these older, non electronic, Porsche’s will be the cars to own in the future.
A pretty good measure of whether a car is beautiful is whether one had a Bburago scale model in one’s bedroom as a schoolboy - and my silver 996 was between the F40 and the E-Type.
Just traded my R129 SL500 for one of these , manual in Arctic silver. Absolutely stunning drive, perfect combo of analogue, involving drive whilst being practical and comfy enough to use regularly.
I'm a Porsche person as well. My dad had a 924 way back in the 80s and while other kids loved the Countach or the Testarossa, I always preferred the whale tail and wide hips of the 930. My love for the brand only increased as I learned more about cars and the fact that Ferraris are fragile things, Lambos aren't always the best driving experience, but you could actually use Porsches and they were generally user friendly cars, save for my favorite 930 and it's snap oversteer. Porsches tend to be more understated as well. They're still beautiful cars, but pulling up in a Diablo or a Gallardo is an event. Driving a 430 or a 355 and you'll have plenty of attention on the road. That's ok sometimes but I'd rather not always be the center of attention when driving.
I learned to drive in my moms 924 back in 1981. Finally got my own Porsche last year, a 981 Boxster S, my dream car, everything I hoped Porsche ownership would be!
Just hammered my 996 160 miles across the country yesterday, sunny , dry day, even my aircon works! It’s light, nimble, can rev it out without being too illegal. Just thinking, I don’t want to change it for a new one as my wife keeps telling me to. I have replaced most things on it mind, but still cheap to run. It handles a lot better on fresh tyres, as the old ones went hard due to little use.
I had a 996 C4S in Polar silver with metropole blue leather interior and completely agree it had a great rear. I had no issues with the car over many years and miles use and like so many cars I’ve had I wish I had kept it - but I’d need a large car park for them all.
The GT3 will cost you 7-8x the price of the 996, but I don't think it delivers 7-8x the fun. So get the 996 and still have buckets of cash for other fun things. (Full disclosure: I am a 996 owner.) :)
Great video Jay and very honest (as usual) pointing out worts and all without rise coloured glasses. The bit at the end when you said what you'd really like in a 911 if you could spec it - I bought a 964 C4 Manual about 15yrs ago which had been Supercharged. It was great....the power delivery was unique, in a good way. Don't have the car any longer though. It was featured in a 911/Porsche World magazine article when the one of previous owners told the story of the tuning journey. Well known guys in Warrington did the job - Ninemeister.
Nice vid, James. My 981 Cayman is roughly half the age of this but I’m starting to see some big bills, too. Not £18k, admittedly, but definitely chunky enough to remind me it’s a Porsche. Will always happen sooner or later I guess.
@@themadhatter444 They are stout, don’t get me wrong. Mine’s done 72000 miles and things are starting to wear out, that’s all. Standard servicing is reasonable but Porsche bits aren’t cheap. Buy well and maintain regularly and you’ll be fine 👍
I just replaced EVERY SINGLE supension arm on my 996, I went with Meyle parts und did all the work myself, ended up paying 1000€. Also did a complete brake job all around new discs and pads, that was like 400€ for brembo parts. So if this is your second or third car and you have basic understanding of mechanical work, it is really not that expensive to maintain these cars. If the engine goes thats another story of course.
Thanks for this video, Jay. Currently cross shopping these with a narrow body 996 or a 997.1. Havent had the opportunity to drive either yet. Living vicariously through you lol
does this guy have a twin? because he's putting out more videos than about 20 other automobile channels i'm subscribed to, combined! if not, bravo!, if so, bravo! bravo!
My good man, I have been subscribed to you for quite awhile, and I just want to say that if EVO or Carfection doesn't pick you up soon, I'm going to be really upset. You deserve all the success coming your way!
Good review. I had a C4s with the X51 Carrera power pack and that is prob the ultimate non GT3 N/A 996. Dog ownership meant moving it on but I would have another. One thing I noticed is that the yellow car in your video does seem to smoke out of the left bank of cylinders (right exhaust) and the exhaust tailpipe was oily. Constructive comment to the owner - Deffo worth checking this NOW!
997.1 Carrera S with a Hartech 4.3L conversion, 6 pot front caliper swaps, 350mm rears and the bigger 4 pot calipers. You can purchase carbon ceramic aftermarket rotors that are far cheaper but just as good if not better quality so pop in some Pagid RS pads to match 👌🏻 I'd lower it by 25mm (in total not in addition) with some Eibach springs and keeps PASM dampers. Weld the PSE flaps open (lol sorry I just can't help myself!). Would consider the aftermarket "pepperpot" 19" alloys as they look superb on 997's. But I do have the 19" Carrera Sport multi-spokes optional wheels that were selected on the build sheet. Those rear 305's have monumental grip! Even the 295's on my winter wheels do too! Defies the laws of physics! So these are a couple of things I'd consider to do but it's a 1 owner, built to order car with an outstanding selection of options selected when the first owner was kitting his car out. I got it at 27k miles @ just under 12 years old. So it was brand new. Kept in a heated garage it's entire life. Immaculate history for both servicing and maintenance. Scoped once a year too. Great content as per, keep up the good work chap. 👏
It’s nice to find a 911 with plenty of the thoughtful options. There’s a big difference between a mostly basic silver/black & an interesting paint/leather combo with no blank buttons.
Really want a 996 C4S or Turbo , the price has rocketed so much I’m the last couple of years. Not sure I can bring myself to part with that much cash now.
lol that opening… he’s such a relatable chap, makes me want to grab a beer with him to talk cars. By the way, 996 C4S owner here so I’m tremendously biased when I watched the video.
Some interesting comments and thoughts. You are fortunate to be able to compare back to back like this and pick up on some things that (I think) just become a non issue in isolation. 992 feels tiny to me for example, versus the day to day car. Slightly apples with oranges too. How about reviewing a 996 GT3?
Porsche centres are definitely worth a call. The guy in the parts dept at Bristol has done me some great prices on oem brembo discs & pads for my 996 🏆👏🏻
I' getting the feeling that even if you reviewed a lawnmower, it would be a "great review". I appreciate your sense of humor and wit with the detailed eye on the subject at hand. At this pace, hitting another 100K subscribers should not be a problem.
Agreed. The .2 headlights look almost like they conceded to the 'must have round headlights' brigade but not the penny pinching accountants that said it must all be in one easy to fit light unit.
@@arryc3947 Exactly. I think they made a change to make them look different to appease the grouches but not necessarily to make the design more pleasing to the eye. The sharp corner looks forced...
@@detonator2112 at the time I didn’t think it was a fuckup. We bought one in 1999and still own and drive it. We just saw it as the evolution of the Porsche 911. It won multiple car of the year awards when it was released, and saved the car company. It wasn’t until years later that people were moaning about it. Also, it sold mor copies than the previous two generations combined so apparently people didn’t think it was such a big fuckup. TBH if the kept the old form and just stuck ina water cooled engine I would have liked that too. The new ones seam all hyper carish and gt like. I’ll take my 300hp go cart.
@@paulbellas8797 Yes I've drived many 996's. I love the car. Not to take anything away from it. It's still more analog and actually very small car compared to 991 and 992, which aren't real 911's anymore. They are amazing cars technically but they're so big that there's very little of the original 911 feel left. I still think the headlights are a f*ckup hehe. But I'm willing to forgive a lot of things for those prices. You can buy three or four 996's for the price of one air cooled well sorted car. That's nuts. Cheers.
Seems like all the comparison pros of the 996 would be even more applicable for the 997.2 vs 992. 996 is a good car, but imo it’s become more popular, and prices have risen, is a lot to do with the price gap that existed between the 996 and 997, that just the fact the 996 was the most affordable to get into during the Porsche boom in the last 2 years. Also, I went to Cranfield Uni! (Saw the sign on the roundabout).
The only reason an M96 will not feel alive up top in the rev range is if tha Vario cam system is faulty. If functional they all make peak power at 6800 rpm,and given that it rev limit is circa 7300 , you do get the best performance ( and pleasure/ by revving it out). They do not feel weak up top up at all. But yes it does have great torque between 2500-4500 rpm too.
I don't know what it is about the Turbo engine you don't like sir, I mean it's a twin turbo'd Mezger unit and they're incredible, torque from low down is so strong and when it hits 4k they just take off and rev out super quick, but you can also drive it very gently and it's very compliant and smooth. It's an amazing engine in a wonderful car , I think you should drive another , mine is an 05 manual with 9k miles and I live in the Scottish Borders , you're welcome to come and give it a shot.
My dream Porsche A 928 S4 , but converted to an EV with plad running gear. I get to enjoy the shape and interior,and Mr musk allows me to drive it every day for the next 30 years as a daily 👍
The 996 is my favorite gen 911 and wow that intro was hilarious 😂 now to answer my favorite Porsche is not a 911 not a gt4rs but a panamera sporturismo
Good vid... nice car too. Always fancied a 997 Turbo Tiptronic myself, not sure why, and not sure why tiptronic either. Next in line however is the 996 C4S, but after that my tastes head into the exotic. But really have no emotion over GT3s, any of them, ever.
Ha ha, interesting one there. I was looking for a 996, wanted 2wd,narrow body, tiptronic gen 1, definitely didn't want the troublesome gen2. What did I buy? 😳, 996.2 C4S with a manual box! I have to say that I'd always preferred the gen2 lights but I tried a couple of tiptronic cars and didn't gel with it, saw the C4S with the wide turbo body and manual box. It just looks beautiful and felt good on test drive, used her yesterday and that lovely creamy power and the ease with which you can find your driving licence crying in a corner means that although I initially wished I could afford a turbo, this'll do just fine for me. I admit the 997 is a bit better quality inside but the gen2 is fine for me. Also I've had lots of positive comments from people on its looks, especially with the full width reflector. I bought mine from Williams Crawford and they went through her very thoroughly before collection, so I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them if you do take the leap. 👍😊 phew 😅
1x FGP IMS “kit” (EPS IMS bearing upgrade, renewal of threepiece clutch, renewal of rear main oil seal, minor service) £1,249.00 1x Renewal of cam shaft chain tensioner £66.20 1x Renewal of O/S/F side light bulb £5.00 1x Renewal of front windscreen wipers (Bosch) £29.00 1x Diagnose inoperative retractable spoiler - replace entire spoiler mechanism and wiring loom with good used units £445.00 1x Renewal of steering column stalk assembly £314.64 1x Adjustment of engine lid catch £32.50 1x Replacement of cup holder unit with good used unit £114.50 1x Diagnose and repair fuel cap lock operation £16.25 2x Re-finish head light face £59.00 2x Renew rear light £871.44 1x Renew O/S side skirt £142.11 1x Renew front splitter £158.47 1x Renew engine bay light £9.00 4x Refurbishment of alloy wheel £299.00 1x Renewal of brake discs, pads, backing shims and wear £828.00 sensors all round 4x Renewal of lower control arm £560.00 1x Four-wheel alignment £120.00 1x Installation of numerous missing under tray fixings £10.00 1x Clean and protect front PAS pipes £5.00 1x Clean and protect brake pipes throughout £20.00 1x Renewal of exhaust manifold for stainless steel unit, renewal of manifold gasket, renewal of manifold bolts (manifolds = £400.00, bolts = £58.56, manifold gaskets = £20.30, labour estimated 4-8 hours/£260-£520 depending on how many bolts snap and require drilling and tapping) £998.86 1x Remove and re-weld/fabricate seams of exhaust back box, re-weld cracked welds, refit with new exhaust fitting kit £720.00 1x Renewal of oil pressure sender £99.00 1x Supply and installation of 997 GT3 short shifter £349.00 1x Re-trim of gear stick and hand brake in suede alcantara with yellow stiching and reconditioning of gear stick knob £280.00 1x Renewal of ignition switch surrounding trim £55.69 1x MOT £49.00 1x Renewal of coolant expansion bottle £291.53 1x Renewal of water thermostat with low temperature unit (no labour charge, as covered with manifold work) £49.95 1x Renewal of N/S/R undertray (no labour charge, as covered with IMS work) £31.12 1x Renewal of front air duct undertray £78.26 2x Renewal of front wheel “wheel-house protector” £211.68 1x Renewal of centre untray (no charge due to break occurring in-house - Car rides too low for workshop entry slope) £0.00 1x Renewal of front headlight self leveling rod, front leveling rod bracket and rear leveling rod bracket £60.95 4x Remove brake caliper, sub-contract full refurbishment, refit to car with new brake caliper pipe £711.50 1x Sub-contract following work to body-shop: Remove surface corrosion from 4x wheel arches (sand to bare metal), respray 2x front wing, 2x doors, 2x rear quarters (glass removed), fill rear bumper number plate screw holes and respray £1,620.00 2x Renewal of coolant radiator connecting hose £170.90 1x Renewal of N/S front to rear low pressure air con pipe £299.00 1x Air conditioning system re-gas £59.00 1x Renewal of rear centre brake light strip £195.57 2x Renewal of rear suspension “toeing” arm £357.50 1x Supply and installation of 4x Bilstein M030 suspension shock absorbers, 4x genuine Porsche M030 suspension coil springs, 2x genuine Porsche spring retainer, 2x front suspension top mounts, 2x front suspension top bearings, 2x front suspension bump stops £1,443.44 1x Supply and installation of PCCM+ with satellite navigation SD software, additional cubby compartment, and climate control screen surround trim £1,499.00 1x Supply and installation of lower centre console (retrofitting due to GT3 console delete currently being fitted) (good used sourced parts - left “leatherette” not inclusive) £157.77 1x Renewal of wheel bolts (standard length), with existing wheel spacers removed. Supply and fit good-used genuine Porsche locking wheel bolt £72.99 1x Fill tank with high octane petrol £67.55 £15,283.37 + VAT
Similar trans ro my 2014 Passat with tiptronic? Bought new, has 166,213 miles. Most reliable car Ive owed in my 66 years. ZERO squeaks or rattles still
I have had a love affair with the 911s since the 1980s. After 30 years of various iterations I'd say my favorite was a 1989 C4. That gear box and car size made it tossable, and the later ones felt more GT luxury. I never thought I'd say it but my vroom vroom shifting days are now behind me. I only romanticize cruising on a beautiful day listening to that engine's cacophony. My last long trips in 911s I felt like I was in a fight and left the car still vibrating and beat up.
I have 2002 C4S with that original sports exhaust with the valve and I think it is brilliant. Don’t understand what you are talking about regarding the high end power, mine is full original car and has excellent power curve, rewarding to rev all the way to the red line?? Very rewarding to rev out.. not sure maybe you have driven an example with some engine issues?
Yes you are correct, he's either not driving the car correctly or it's broken. It has good mid range torque but then has a flat spot ( they all do ) around 5200 rpm then peak power is right at the red line. Saying this engine is not being keen or rev or pointless to rev out is complete rubbish. I've Dyno'd mine to prove it also.
Great to see the 996 get some appreciation! I have a Turbo: bulletproof engine, bonkers fast but civilised at regular speeds. Thoroughly recommend one, or any 996 in good condition👍
Miss my Midnight blue 996 C4S - brilliant car.
Porsche 996 C4S are great, I have owned mine now for over 2 years now, but I have used big $ on my car. All work done at Porsche Classic center, rebuild engine to 3.9L, AOS, IMS, RMS every possible upgrade to engine, radiators +++ Suspension to öhlins + every bushings + balljoints. Full Kline exhaust system, upgraded interior with hardback sport seats, new OEM red seat belts, Porsche PCCM, repaint brake calipers, all brake line new + brake disc + pads +++ I was considering to buy new Porsche 992, but I think its cooler to own 996 C4S I love the look of this car :) Cant understand why people dont like the headlights + the rear of C4S are very nice. + newer Porsche looks too big
Sorry, but for the asking price the 996 is not that great. Terrible interior ergonomics. Too cramped inside. Your leg hits the dash, the door sill is too high for your elbow to rest on. The center console is a mess. The shifter is too far forward, no decent cupholders. Back seats are useless. Drivers seat is not comfortable enough. The car is too expensive to fix and it does not drive all that great. If it were half the price it would be great, but it's not. The juice ain't worth the squeeze.
@@bigmacdaddy1234 what type of Porsche do you drive?
@@KingReza
I agree with no e of this guys points apart from the lack of cup holders .
However , When I’m buying a 20 year old sports car cup holders are not a high priority 😂
Have you done a video of your 3.9 with the Kline exhaust? I have a 3.9 and am trying to decide on exhaust.
@@mh230483 No not done video, also my exhaust system is inconel :) The sound is insane
Buying a low mileage one owner 986S, a Boxster, when prices were absolutely bottomed out in 2016 continues to be my biggest car coup. I have got to have some of those sport technic wheels.
Change the airbox and throttlehouse of the 996 or of a Cayman get big horsepower jump .and take out the snorkel if you like sound.boxster rule mid engine
This car was done by Friends Green Porsche for the customer. Anyone thinking the bill is excessive needs to watch the video, or all of their videos, to see why customers choose them to service cars like this. The work performed was obviously done to meticulous perfection and, as a result, the owner will enjoy many stress-free miles. The work included the PCCM, exhaust bits, interior package, etc. Not just a "mechanical refresh." If I were in Europe they'd be doing mine too. Great video as always, Jay. Spot on closing remarks.
I think you've highlighted an issue I have with todays supercars in general. I genuinely think fun drivers cars reached their peak in the 2000s. After you get beyond 500-600bhp, it's much harder to enjoy one fully on public roads. Can't beat an old fashioned un-strangled lump with a manual gearbox. This car is from a time when turbos were only there for one purpose, to give you a kick in the back. Btw, this is the best far channel full stop, thank you!
The rear reflector makes it actually look like the traditional Porsche. Air cooled cars all have it and that's a big part of their appeal. This version is the best looking 996 hands down. Air cooled prices are already out of reach from most car enthusiasts but the 996 prices are ridiculously low. These are seriously undervalued. Amazing sports car bargains.
Your 100 percent correct about the rear reflector, its reminiscent of the air cooler cars and that's why I love it so much. The 1996 in this spec is simply beautiful.
@@blairwilliams136 996 4S rear is absolute perfection. Only 993 has better looking rear end ... that fat ass... (especially the widebody S-model) but this is much nicer than any of the newer versions (997, 991 and 992). I want one so much.
@@detonator2112 “that phat ass”, aye but you do be spitting rn 😭😭 i own a 1999 996 4, in time im gonna bring it into the new age and keep it forever
I'm sad I didn't get one... It was extremely affordable, but I thought it would keep depreciating... But yall youtubers ruined it, lolololol
Scratched a very big itch last year and obtained a 996 40 Jahre. Appreciate all comments about C4S and the 996 in general. The ‘I don’t like the 996 because of…’ brigade are just going to miss out on the greatest sports car bargain of our times. My 40 Jahre: not silly money, looks fantastic but, big but, with X51, LSD and M030 is a fabulous drive. Just fabulous - especially on UK ‘B’roads. Also, it’s my daily driver.
Call yourself everybody’s 3rd favourite but your intro music certainly is my favourite 🤣.
Look forward to it every time
this was the one i was waiting for .....Cracking Video for Easter. I have a C4S silver over black and many owners of pre and post 996's have said to me that its the only one of the 996 era they would own. Everyone seems to like the C4S. I think its because most people see it from the back and its the best rear 3/4 of any Porsche - hands down.
Nah.. best Porsche rear 3/4 is the 993 Turbo
Interesting comparing this car with the 992. I can agree with what you said about Porsche often being less expensive for parts. Not always, sometimes their pricing leaves me scratching my head it’s so ludicrous.
My 996 engine went ping. Costly AF.
The 996 a great drivers Porsche all weather long distance sports tank. Love the sleek racing style take lights over the Cod eyes. Go the raw analogue 996. A Pinky Lai artform Icon !
“Car Obsessed, flamboyant, fat man”, this is one of the reasons I enjoy watching you videos so much. You make fun of yourself and don’t care what other think. More power to you Sir! Keep up the great work, enjoying the videos.
I always loved those C4S of the 996 generation, the rear flanks are feminine but agressive.
That and a 987.2 are genuine future classics of good value now.
Greetings from Portugal!
Keep the good reviews
I owned a gorgeous midnight blue/gray 996 C4S (6 speed manual, Sport Techno wheels, white gauge faces) for about 6 years. The only 'modification' I made was replacing the air-box with a large K&N cone filter. Yes, the interior was far too plasticky for the price-point, but it was always wonderful to drive and nearly bulletproof.
Great vid. Thank you. The 996 is a great car and for some the ONLY affordable 911.
For those watching from outside the uk. Dont be too discouraged if you find a version you like with m030. I will agree that the suspension is too harsh but that is more an indictment of road quality in the uk. It would be perfect for Spain for instance.
Oh...also consider installing the 997.2 gt3rs gearshift (not the ssk). It made a world of difference to mine and is a 1:1 replacement; easy install)
My C4 is on mo030 and I agree it’s rather to firm at low speeds but works really well once the pace increases 👍🏼
M030 is only harsh if it's knackered.
Great review: real world. Very easy for journalists that don’t buy or live with a GT3 to say that it’s miles better in engine and sound.
GT 1 inspired headlights, wide body, perfect rear end. Best looking 911 - just a great design
Stunning, so few cars can pull off yellow but that C4S looks epic! Brilliant video 👍
The 996 was the current Porsche when I was a teenager, so I’ll always consider it the blueprint 911. Glad to hear it finally getting some love!
I’ve had one of these for 4 months and I’m in love with it.
I haven’t driven the 992
I just go by the car I drive and it’s bloody magnificent.
I had brackets installed which have given me about 5-6 inches extra legroom,
So it’s now absolutely perfect.
Yes, I've got a C4 996. Granted, I'm trying to move on to something else, but after nearly 10 years of enjoyment (and a Hartech rebuild), I've loved the thing :) Won't be my last Porsche either.
Great video. Miss my C4s to this day. Had one a few years ago. Did some serious miles in it. Fun to drive, great noise and plenty quick enough. The rise in revs and urgency at 5500+ rpm was missed in your video. Almost like a second cam. That was the bit of the Rev range I loved the most. 996 C4s encourages you to drive and the harder you push the more reward you’d get. Never had any issues with it, solid and dependable. I loved my car. 👍🏽
I agree - surprised there was no mention of the step up at high revs - my 997 c2s is glorious at the top end (and the lower end, and the mid range for that matter). Perhaps the engine in this particular car is past its best.
Great points in there, I’m doing the same with my 997, bringing it back to life and enhancing where I can. Videos like this inspire me when I’m skint and loosing faith!
Hopefully I’ll get you in it when it’s done.
I was going to sell my 997.1 S because they command so much right now, but I have reconsidered and are now in the process of refurbishment and improvement instead. I think these older, non electronic, Porsche’s will be the cars to own in the future.
For sure. I think any Porsche in manual especially will just never stop being wanted. Even the massive 992
Thanks!
8:50 After having so much money spent, the amount of smoke at high revs is a concern.
He said he spent the money on chassis (suspensions), engine will be next… I have 997, had to do engine first… :-/
A pretty good measure of whether a car is beautiful is whether one had a Bburago scale model in one’s bedroom as a schoolboy - and my silver 996 was between the F40 and the E-Type.
Just traded my R129 SL500 for one of these , manual in Arctic silver.
Absolutely stunning drive, perfect combo of analogue, involving drive whilst being practical and comfy enough to use regularly.
My favourite 996! Love the bigger rear lights on these and the Turbo style body...
I'm a Porsche person as well. My dad had a 924 way back in the 80s and while other kids loved the Countach or the Testarossa, I always preferred the whale tail and wide hips of the 930. My love for the brand only increased as I learned more about cars and the fact that Ferraris are fragile things, Lambos aren't always the best driving experience, but you could actually use Porsches and they were generally user friendly cars, save for my favorite 930 and it's snap oversteer. Porsches tend to be more understated as well. They're still beautiful cars, but pulling up in a Diablo or a Gallardo is an event. Driving a 430 or a 355 and you'll have plenty of attention on the road. That's ok sometimes but I'd rather not always be the center of attention when driving.
I learned to drive in my moms 924 back in 1981. Finally got my own Porsche last year, a 981 Boxster S, my dream car, everything I hoped Porsche ownership would be!
Am so excited watching this… sold my e46 m3 and am picking up my ‘04 c4s this Saturday coming!😊
FGP video on this very car was good, detailed the extensive work carried out to bring it up to an exceptional example
Just hammered my 996 160 miles across the country yesterday, sunny , dry day, even my aircon works! It’s light, nimble, can rev it out without being too illegal. Just thinking, I don’t want to change it for a new one as my wife keeps telling me to. I have replaced most things on it mind, but still cheap to run. It handles a lot better on fresh tyres, as the old ones went hard due to little use.
I had a 996 C4S in Polar silver with metropole blue leather interior and completely agree it had a great rear.
I had no issues with the car over many years and miles use and like so many cars I’ve had I wish I had kept it - but I’d need a large car park for them all.
I bought a 996.1 with the same exact color a year ago - interior and exterior. Love the combo and it’s an awesome car.
You're really dialling up these intros.
Love it
Glad you like them! I thought I'd try something a little different
The GT3 will cost you 7-8x the price of the 996, but I don't think it delivers 7-8x the fun. So get the 996 and still have buckets of cash for other fun things. (Full disclosure: I am a 996 owner.) :)
Great video Jay and very honest (as usual) pointing out worts and all without rise coloured glasses. The bit at the end when you said what you'd really like in a 911 if you could spec it - I bought a 964 C4 Manual about 15yrs ago which had been Supercharged. It was great....the power delivery was unique, in a good way. Don't have the car any longer though. It was featured in a 911/Porsche World magazine article when the one of previous owners told the story of the tuning journey. Well known guys in Warrington did the job - Ninemeister.
Nice vid, James. My 981 Cayman is roughly half the age of this but I’m starting to see some big bills, too. Not £18k, admittedly, but definitely chunky enough to remind me it’s a Porsche. Will always happen sooner or later I guess.
Prospective 981 buyer here! Like what? I've always heard that they're very stout cars.
@@themadhatter444 They are stout, don’t get me wrong. Mine’s done 72000 miles and things are starting to wear out, that’s all. Standard servicing is reasonable but Porsche bits aren’t cheap. Buy well and maintain regularly and you’ll be fine 👍
@@nickgreen2497 Thank you!
I just replaced EVERY SINGLE supension arm on my 996, I went with Meyle parts und did all the work myself, ended up paying 1000€. Also did a complete brake job all around new discs and pads, that was like 400€ for brembo parts. So if this is your second or third car and you have basic understanding of mechanical work, it is really not that expensive to maintain these cars. If the engine goes thats another story of course.
Thanks for this video, Jay. Currently cross shopping these with a narrow body 996 or a 997.1. Havent had the opportunity to drive either yet. Living vicariously through you lol
I have a 997 C4. Absolutely lovely in every way
does this guy have a twin? because he's putting out more videos than about 20 other automobile channels i'm subscribed to, combined!
if not, bravo!, if so, bravo! bravo!
He is doing this like a real job, he is clearly taking it very seriously.
Looks great in yellow. I had a speed yellow 996.1 GT3 for 12 years. Those seats imo are up there with best seats ever put in a road car.
They're not original seats.
Bought my Speed Yellow 996 about a week after watching this. An absolutely fantastic car!
Saw one fly past me that looked just like this the other day and it still looks timeless
That 996 C4S really suits that yellow paint job
9964S - There is no substitute. Pure automotive art.
My good man, I have been subscribed to you for quite awhile, and I just want to say that if EVO or Carfection doesn't pick you up soon, I'm going to be really upset. You deserve all the success coming your way!
Enjoyed that. I’ve owned a 2000C4 since new. Yes it expensive to maintain but I’ve enjoyed everyone of the 198,000 miles.
Looks great in the speed yellow. Sounds fantastic too. I wouldn't be willing to spend the best part of £15-20k bringing it up to standard though.
Good review. I had a C4s with the X51 Carrera power pack and that is prob the ultimate non GT3 N/A 996. Dog ownership meant moving it on but I would have another. One thing I noticed is that the yellow car in your video does seem to smoke out of the left bank of cylinders (right exhaust) and the exhaust tailpipe was oily. Constructive comment to the owner - Deffo worth checking this NOW!
Indication of bore scoring 😢
5:55 "Speed Yellow" adds 10mph to your speed when getting pulled over...
im sat here and its like listening to mozart, that exhaust makes a gorgeous noise.
i do like the way this 996 sounds
That 996 is beautiful i love the options!
997.1 Carrera S with a Hartech 4.3L conversion, 6 pot front caliper swaps, 350mm rears and the bigger 4 pot calipers. You can purchase carbon ceramic aftermarket rotors that are far cheaper but just as good if not better quality so pop in some Pagid RS pads to match 👌🏻 I'd lower it by 25mm (in total not in addition) with some Eibach springs and keeps PASM dampers. Weld the PSE flaps open (lol sorry I just can't help myself!). Would consider the aftermarket "pepperpot" 19" alloys as they look superb on 997's. But I do have the 19" Carrera Sport multi-spokes optional wheels that were selected on the build sheet. Those rear 305's have monumental grip! Even the 295's on my winter wheels do too! Defies the laws of physics! So these are a couple of things I'd consider to do but it's a 1 owner, built to order car with an outstanding selection of options selected when the first owner was kitting his car out. I got it at 27k miles @ just under 12 years old. So it was brand new. Kept in a heated garage it's entire life. Immaculate history for both servicing and maintenance. Scoped once a year too.
Great content as per, keep up the good work chap. 👏
It’s nice to find a 911 with plenty of the thoughtful options. There’s a big difference between a mostly basic silver/black & an interesting paint/leather combo with no blank buttons.
Really want a 996 C4S or Turbo , the price has rocketed so much I’m the last couple of years. Not sure I can bring myself to part with that much cash now.
"So from that point on I realised that I really was, a Porsche person"
*currently owns 3 Ferraris and 0 Porsches*
😂
I didn't say I was very good at it, and I do own one Porsche! The 968
@@JayEmmOnCars How do you like your 968?!
Man, I'm owning a Z3 3.0 and C4S and thats exacly the cars that you are speaking of!
lol that opening… he’s such a relatable chap, makes me want to grab a beer with him to talk cars. By the way, 996 C4S owner here so I’m tremendously biased when I watched the video.
Mine's a diet coke
@@JayEmmOnCars 👏
Thanks J, enjoyed that!
I own both a Touring ( 991 ) and a 996 C4S , both superb. But 996 so much easier to have fun in.
Best modern Porsche by far is that c4s however for me personally a c2s is the one 👌👌
Your synopsis is spot on for cost of ownership and purchase. I know from experience as well . Good vid.
My first ever Porsche c4s - need to get back in one again soon!
Agreed fantastic colour
I did the Palmer Sport day 11 years ago when it was hosted by Martin Brundle. Brilliant day
Probably the best intro on a UA-cam video ever!
Some interesting comments and thoughts. You are fortunate to be able to compare back to back like this and pick up on some things that (I think) just become a non issue in isolation. 992 feels tiny to me for example, versus the day to day car. Slightly apples with oranges too. How about reviewing a 996 GT3?
Porsche centres are definitely worth a call. The guy in the parts dept at Bristol has done me some great prices on oem brembo discs & pads for my 996 🏆👏🏻
I' getting the feeling that even if you reviewed a lawnmower, it would be a "great review". I appreciate your sense of humor and wit with the detailed eye on the subject at hand. At this pace, hitting another 100K subscribers should not be a problem.
I like the original headlights much more. They pay honest tribute to the gt1. The second gen are sharp and look forced into the design
Agreed. The .2 headlights look almost like they conceded to the 'must have round headlights' brigade but not the penny pinching accountants that said it must all be in one easy to fit light unit.
@@arryc3947 Exactly. I think they made a change to make them look different to appease the grouches but not necessarily to make the design more pleasing to the eye. The sharp corner looks forced...
I'm a 996 fan. Great car. But let's face it the 996 headlights are one of the biggest f*ckups in the entire car history.
@@detonator2112 at the time I didn’t think it was a fuckup. We bought one in 1999and still own and drive it. We just saw it as the evolution of the Porsche 911. It won multiple car of the year awards when it was released, and saved the car company. It wasn’t until years later that people were moaning about it. Also, it sold mor copies than the previous two generations combined so apparently people didn’t think it was such a big fuckup. TBH if the kept the old form and just stuck ina water cooled engine I would have liked that too. The new ones seam all hyper carish and gt like. I’ll take my 300hp go cart.
@@paulbellas8797 Yes I've drived many 996's. I love the car. Not to take anything away from it. It's still more analog and actually very small car compared to 991 and 992, which aren't real 911's anymore. They are amazing cars technically but they're so big that there's very little of the original 911 feel left. I still think the headlights are a f*ckup hehe. But I'm willing to forgive a lot of things for those prices. You can buy three or four 996's for the price of one air cooled well sorted car. That's nuts. Cheers.
Seems like all the comparison pros of the 996 would be even more applicable for the 997.2 vs 992.
996 is a good car, but imo it’s become more popular, and prices have risen, is a lot to do with the price gap that existed between the 996 and 997, that just the fact the 996 was the most affordable to get into during the Porsche boom in the last 2 years.
Also, I went to Cranfield Uni! (Saw the sign on the roundabout).
Fantastic video. Love the colour of the car. Keep up the good work.
The only reason an M96 will not feel alive up top in the rev range is if tha Vario cam system is faulty. If functional they all make peak power at 6800 rpm,and given that it rev limit is circa 7300 , you do get the best performance ( and pleasure/ by revving it out). They do not feel weak up top up at all.
But yes it does have great torque between 2500-4500 rpm too.
I don't know what it is about the Turbo engine you don't like sir, I mean it's a twin turbo'd Mezger unit and they're incredible, torque from low down is so strong and when it hits 4k they just take off and rev out super quick, but you can also drive it very gently and it's very compliant and smooth. It's an amazing engine in a wonderful car , I think you should drive another , mine is an 05 manual with 9k miles and I live in the Scottish Borders , you're welcome to come and give it a shot.
That’s a beautiful car. I really want to drive a C4S eventually to compare to my early C2, hopefully I’ll get to soon!
I needed to see this one. Thanks
My dream Porsche
A 928 S4 , but converted to an EV with plad running gear.
I get to enjoy the shape and interior,and Mr musk allows me to drive it every day for the next 30 years as a daily 👍
Saw a nice job on a black one where the parking light on the fried egg headlamp was covered with black wrap. Made it look like a more modern model.
3rd Favorite? I guess no.1 car fatman would be Clarkson? PS: Thanks for introducing Roastr, great app!
We love you the way you are, JayEmm!
The 996 is my favorite gen 911 and wow that intro was hilarious 😂 now to answer my favorite Porsche is not a 911 not a gt4rs but a panamera sporturismo
I don't like how the C4S looks, but by gum, it sounds superb.
What a beautiful car, love the yellow against the black outside, superb, thanks for sharing.
Luv my 05 4s with x51..its was the 1st Porsche i acquired..im not a yellow fan but its griwing on me a lil
Litera driving my dream car, speed yellow 996 c4s. Oter one is 991 gt3 touring.
@2:04
noticed the unmatching wheel hub covers.
the coloured emblem ones are damn expensive, and like to fall off. I get it.
Absolutely love that spec
Good vid... nice car too. Always fancied a 997 Turbo Tiptronic myself, not sure why, and not sure why tiptronic either. Next in line however is the 996 C4S, but after that my tastes head into the exotic. But really have no emotion over GT3s, any of them, ever.
Ha ha, interesting one there. I was looking for a 996, wanted 2wd,narrow body, tiptronic gen 1, definitely didn't want the troublesome gen2. What did I buy? 😳, 996.2 C4S with a manual box! I have to say that I'd always preferred the gen2 lights but I tried a couple of tiptronic cars and didn't gel with it, saw the C4S with the wide turbo body and manual box. It just looks beautiful and felt good on test drive, used her yesterday and that lovely creamy power and the ease with which you can find your driving licence crying in a corner means that although I initially wished I could afford a turbo, this'll do just fine for me. I admit the 997 is a bit better quality inside but the gen2 is fine for me. Also I've had lots of positive comments from people on its looks, especially with the full width reflector. I bought mine from Williams Crawford and they went through her very thoroughly before collection, so I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them if you do take the leap. 👍😊 phew 😅
For me, that CSR snakebite 997.2 would be the one...but put the radio back in it 👍
1x FGP IMS “kit” (EPS IMS bearing upgrade, renewal of threepiece
clutch, renewal of rear main oil seal, minor service)
£1,249.00
1x Renewal of cam shaft chain tensioner £66.20
1x Renewal of O/S/F side light bulb £5.00
1x Renewal of front windscreen wipers (Bosch) £29.00
1x Diagnose inoperative retractable spoiler - replace entire
spoiler mechanism and wiring loom with good used units
£445.00
1x Renewal of steering column stalk assembly £314.64
1x Adjustment of engine lid catch £32.50
1x Replacement of cup holder unit with good used unit £114.50
1x Diagnose and repair fuel cap lock operation £16.25
2x Re-finish head light face £59.00
2x Renew rear light £871.44
1x Renew O/S side skirt £142.11
1x Renew front splitter £158.47
1x Renew engine bay light £9.00
4x Refurbishment of alloy wheel £299.00
1x Renewal of brake discs, pads, backing shims and wear £828.00
sensors all round
4x Renewal of lower control arm £560.00
1x Four-wheel alignment £120.00
1x Installation of numerous missing under tray fixings £10.00
1x Clean and protect front PAS pipes £5.00
1x Clean and protect brake pipes throughout £20.00
1x Renewal of exhaust manifold for stainless steel unit, renewal
of manifold gasket, renewal of manifold bolts (manifolds =
£400.00, bolts = £58.56, manifold gaskets = £20.30, labour
estimated 4-8 hours/£260-£520 depending on how many
bolts snap and require drilling and tapping)
£998.86
1x Remove and re-weld/fabricate seams of exhaust back box,
re-weld cracked welds, refit with new exhaust fitting kit
£720.00
1x Renewal of oil pressure sender £99.00
1x Supply and installation of 997 GT3 short shifter £349.00
1x Re-trim of gear stick and hand brake in suede alcantara with
yellow stiching and reconditioning of gear stick knob
£280.00
1x Renewal of ignition switch surrounding trim £55.69
1x MOT £49.00
1x Renewal of coolant expansion bottle £291.53
1x Renewal of water thermostat with low temperature unit (no
labour charge, as covered with manifold work)
£49.95
1x Renewal of N/S/R undertray (no labour charge, as covered
with IMS work)
£31.12
1x Renewal of front air duct undertray £78.26
2x Renewal of front wheel “wheel-house protector” £211.68
1x Renewal of centre untray (no charge due to break occurring
in-house - Car rides too low for workshop entry slope)
£0.00
1x Renewal of front headlight self leveling rod, front leveling
rod bracket and rear leveling rod bracket
£60.95
4x Remove brake caliper, sub-contract full refurbishment, refit
to car with new brake caliper pipe
£711.50
1x Sub-contract following work to body-shop: Remove surface
corrosion from 4x wheel arches (sand to bare metal), respray
2x front wing, 2x doors, 2x rear quarters (glass removed), fill
rear bumper number plate screw holes and respray
£1,620.00
2x Renewal of coolant radiator connecting hose £170.90
1x Renewal of N/S front to rear low pressure air con pipe £299.00
1x Air conditioning system re-gas £59.00
1x Renewal of rear centre brake light strip £195.57
2x Renewal of rear suspension “toeing” arm £357.50
1x Supply and installation of 4x Bilstein M030 suspension shock
absorbers, 4x genuine Porsche M030 suspension coil springs,
2x genuine Porsche spring retainer, 2x front suspension top
mounts, 2x front suspension top bearings, 2x front
suspension bump stops
£1,443.44
1x Supply and installation of PCCM+ with satellite navigation
SD software, additional cubby compartment, and climate
control screen surround trim
£1,499.00
1x Supply and installation of lower centre console (retrofitting
due to GT3 console delete currently being fitted) (good used
sourced parts - left “leatherette” not inclusive)
£157.77
1x Renewal of wheel bolts (standard length), with existing wheel
spacers removed. Supply and fit good-used genuine Porsche
locking wheel bolt
£72.99
1x Fill tank with high octane petrol £67.55
£15,283.37 + VAT
Thanks for sharing!
Where did you get these prices from?
Similar trans ro my 2014 Passat with tiptronic? Bought new, has 166,213 miles. Most reliable car Ive owed in my 66 years. ZERO squeaks or rattles still
I have a 2002 C4S MT and a 2021 992 CS MT - I love my 996 but the 992 is light years better in every way, both great cars
I am considering a 911 40 Jahre. I already have a 2011 987.2 (6-speed) which I think is a future 'Hall-of-Famer'
I have had a love affair with the 911s since the 1980s. After 30 years of various iterations I'd say my favorite was a 1989 C4. That gear box and car size made it tossable, and the later ones felt more GT luxury. I never thought I'd say it but my vroom vroom shifting days are now behind me. I only romanticize cruising on a beautiful day listening to that engine's cacophony. My last long trips in 911s I felt like I was in a fight and left the car still vibrating and beat up.
Im off to Eslöv in Sweden to pick one up, thanks for this review mate👍
I had a deposit placed in this exact car and pulled out of the deal. I kick myself often
Beautiful car, hate the short plate, but that's the owners choice I suppose and easily changed. Good review.
I have 2002 C4S with that original sports exhaust with the valve and I think it is brilliant. Don’t understand what you are talking about regarding the high end power, mine is full original car and has excellent power curve, rewarding to rev all the way to the red line?? Very rewarding to rev out.. not sure maybe you have driven an example with some engine issues?
Yes you are correct, he's either not driving the car correctly or it's broken. It has good mid range torque but then has a flat spot ( they all do ) around 5200 rpm then peak power is right at the red line. Saying this engine is not being keen or rev or pointless to rev out is complete rubbish.
I've Dyno'd mine to prove it also.