1999 996 Prices - What Gives? (was this a Black Sheep)

[David Ray]

've been looking at several 1999 996's to purchase and am taken back by the considerably low prices for a 8 year old car that once sold for $90-95K. Most I've looked at are between $30-$35K and have anywhere from 40-60K miles.

Is there something seriously wrong with the older 996s? What are the obvious problems as an owner? 50% of the ones I've seen seemd to be in good mechanical shape with routine maintance records and some with as low mileage as 35K (this to me doesn't even seem to be broken in). A lot of the owners I've talked to said "they're tired of the electronic failures"?

What's the story behind this model?

Thanks

[Red Rooster]

........ A lot of the owners I've talked to said "they're tired of the electronic failures"?

You pretty much hit the nail on the head there...... Porsche has somewhat of a history of 1st model year teething problems. Best bet is to seek out a car that has had all the clitches addressed...or at least the great majority of them.

Good Luck !

[kary]

I would not take the chance on an older 996. Besides the electronic issues there have been a number of RMS issues as well as general engine issues that surface over time. Look for a newer 996 or even a 993 as they are the same price range (993 and 99 996's that is).

[Chuck Hasel]

I have a 99 996 and have had problems from the first week of ownership. Electrical, RMS twice, engine replaced at 58K miles, transmission reconditioned at 62K, all kinds of other problems Do not be deceived by the "cheap" price. You'll end up paying more over time for this model.

[sean996]

I've been thinking about a used turbo (water cooled) . . . same issues generally? There are some great deals out there. You can get a used turbo with less than 10k miles still under warranty for the same price as a new stripped 911. Start adding options and you can get a used X50 with low miles!

Doing a little research, it seems this is a much more solid car than the standard 911. Is this just due to the running gear or is the car different all around?

Thanks,

Sean