911 vs. 993
10-26-2008, 05:44 PM
#1
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911 vs. 993
911 vs. 993
Okay, so I'm oscillating with my choices here. Pros/cons to both.
For Targas only since that's what I'm looking for:
The 911 1987-89 G50:
Cons:
Non-power brakes, steering
No ABS
Not as safe as 993
AC sometimes doesn't work
Valve guide issues
Pros:
Classic looks
Less $ than the 993
Has "real" targa top
The 993 1995-97
Cons:
Not as classic looking
More expensive
Targa more like a large sunroof
Some have carbon buildup issues
Pros:
Safer
ABS
Power assisted steering and brakes
I really like the looks of the 911 better, but safety is a big factor (have a daughter to think of) along with power assisted features. For me, the 911's heavy clutch, brakes, and steering will fatigue me after awhile I fear. I just might get tired driving. I know some like the classic feel of the road and the rawness of the 911, but I'd rather be more comfortable.
Uhhh, did I mention I like the 911 classic looks though...?
Okay, so I'm oscillating with my choices here. Pros/cons to both.
For Targas only since that's what I'm looking for:
The 911 1987-89 G50:
Cons:
Non-power brakes, steering
No ABS
Not as safe as 993
AC sometimes doesn't work
Valve guide issues
Pros:
Classic looks
Less $ than the 993
Has "real" targa top
The 993 1995-97
Cons:
Not as classic looking
More expensive
Targa more like a large sunroof
Some have carbon buildup issues
Pros:
Safer
ABS
Power assisted steering and brakes
I really like the looks of the 911 better, but safety is a big factor (have a daughter to think of) along with power assisted features. For me, the 911's heavy clutch, brakes, and steering will fatigue me after awhile I fear. I just might get tired driving. I know some like the classic feel of the road and the rawness of the 911, but I'd rather be more comfortable.
Uhhh, did I mention I like the 911 classic looks though...?
10-26-2008, 07:19 PM
#2
Three Wheelin'
Few things to clear up here.
-The 911 A/C will never (not 'sometimes') really work unless heavily upgraded.
-Non power steering can be seen as either a pro or a con. I happen to like the steering the way it is, it is only heavy if you are parallel parking but still perfectly manageable, I have yet to get tired driving that car and I have driven it for 1500mi straight before (twice).
-As for valve guides, depending on mileage/history if it was a problem by now it should have been taken car of.
That being said I have never even sat in a 993 so I can't compare. In the end you know what is best for you. Good luck in your decision.
-matt
-The 911 A/C will never (not 'sometimes') really work unless heavily upgraded.
-Non power steering can be seen as either a pro or a con. I happen to like the steering the way it is, it is only heavy if you are parallel parking but still perfectly manageable, I have yet to get tired driving that car and I have driven it for 1500mi straight before (twice).
-As for valve guides, depending on mileage/history if it was a problem by now it should have been taken car of.
That being said I have never even sat in a 993 so I can't compare. In the end you know what is best for you. Good luck in your decision.
-matt
10-26-2008, 08:59 PM
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About 5 years ago i spent the whole summer looking for either a 911 or a 993 Targa, just as your search. I had been without a porsche for several years and I armed myself with all the requisite tools for making the right decision. i drove somewhere just about every weekend. I let the 97 C4S I really wanted get away. Actually the seller sold it out from under me while i was getting the money out of an investment account. Gordy somebody, I'll never forgive him. it was Sunday when we agreedd on the price, on monday at lunch time he sold it someone who was able to wire transfer the money immediately, and i didn't get there with the cashiers check until late afternoon, and the car was sold. Still there, but sold. I was pissed, but just a few days after that happened, I drove a 996 for the first time. It was just so far superior to either of those two cars I couldn't not buy it, even though i considered myself an aircooled guy forever, at the time.
That was before 996s lost their resale value, so i spent 5k more for the 996 than I was going to pay for the C4S. Except for the fact that the 993 would still be worth just about what i was paying, and the 996 is worth half, i have never regretted the decision. Even if I had known about the depreciation I would do the same thing if my goal was a daily driver. I would still like to have a 993, and i later bought an older 911, but not to drive every day. The 996 is really a perfect all around car for driving to work, in the twisties, even on the track. Porsche just made too many of them to maintain resale value, but that's great news for the car buying public if they just knew how much car they could buy for so little.
That was before 996s lost their resale value, so i spent 5k more for the 996 than I was going to pay for the C4S. Except for the fact that the 993 would still be worth just about what i was paying, and the 996 is worth half, i have never regretted the decision. Even if I had known about the depreciation I would do the same thing if my goal was a daily driver. I would still like to have a 993, and i later bought an older 911, but not to drive every day. The 996 is really a perfect all around car for driving to work, in the twisties, even on the track. Porsche just made too many of them to maintain resale value, but that's great news for the car buying public if they just knew how much car they could buy for so little.
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10-27-2008, 10:21 AM
#9
RL Community Team
Rennlist Member
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Interesting dilemma.
Safety is an important question. Although I would not consider a Carrera an unsafe car, certainly the newer 993 has the edge. But then again, a 996 is another step up in the safety department and they go for similar $ to a nice 993 – often a bit less.
One consideration may be the relative scarcity of 993 Targas. Also, their sliding roofs were sometimes problematic, so check that feature carefully in any possible purchases. Whichever way you go, I think it is important to get a truly nice sample. So, if your budget was $25 to $30K, you would be able to find an outstanding 3.2 and maybe an OK 993. I would go for the outstanding 3.2. If $$ were not an issue, I would probably lean toward a 993. They still have lots of the DNA of the 3.2 but are much more modern (and faster). That said - you will NEVER go wrong with a good 3.2. (Of course, the previously mentioned 964 option is also worthy of consideration.)
The valve stem issues are hit-and-miss. As has been said: By now most cars have either had top-ends to rectify prematurely worn guides, or are “good ones” that are still running strong.
Either way, a good PPI trumps all!
Safety is an important question. Although I would not consider a Carrera an unsafe car, certainly the newer 993 has the edge. But then again, a 996 is another step up in the safety department and they go for similar $ to a nice 993 – often a bit less.
One consideration may be the relative scarcity of 993 Targas. Also, their sliding roofs were sometimes problematic, so check that feature carefully in any possible purchases. Whichever way you go, I think it is important to get a truly nice sample. So, if your budget was $25 to $30K, you would be able to find an outstanding 3.2 and maybe an OK 993. I would go for the outstanding 3.2. If $$ were not an issue, I would probably lean toward a 993. They still have lots of the DNA of the 3.2 but are much more modern (and faster). That said - you will NEVER go wrong with a good 3.2. (Of course, the previously mentioned 964 option is also worthy of consideration.)
The valve stem issues are hit-and-miss. As has been said: By now most cars have either had top-ends to rectify prematurely worn guides, or are “good ones” that are still running strong.
Either way, a good PPI trumps all!
10-27-2008, 10:37 AM
#10
Burning Brakes
I sold my Lexus SC400 (great car btw) because I wanted a "real" sports car...having said that, I don't view the "non power brakes and steering" on my 911 as a "con" at ALL, in fact, quite the opposite 
. Drive a "well sorted" Carrera, you'll see...
Keith
'88 CE coupe
. Drive a "well sorted" Carrera, you'll see...Keith
'88 CE coupe
10-27-2008, 05:53 PM
#13
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911 vs. 993
Okay, so I'm oscillating with my choices here. Pros/cons to both.
For Targas only since that's what I'm looking for:
The 911 1987-89 G50:
Cons:
Non-power brakes, steering
No ABS
Not as safe as 993
AC sometimes doesn't work
Valve guide issues
Pros:
Classic looks
Less $ than the 993
Has "real" targa top
The 993 1995-97
Cons:
Not as classic looking
More expensive
Targa more like a large sunroof
Some have carbon buildup issues
Pros:
Safer
ABS
Power assisted steering and brakes
I really like the looks of the 911 better, but safety is a big factor (have a daughter to think of) along with power assisted features. For me, the 911's heavy clutch, brakes, and steering will fatigue me after awhile I fear. I just might get tired driving. I know some like the classic feel of the road and the rawness of the 911, but I'd rather be more comfortable.
Uhhh, did I mention I like the 911 classic looks though...?
Okay, so I'm oscillating with my choices here. Pros/cons to both.
For Targas only since that's what I'm looking for:
The 911 1987-89 G50:
Cons:
Non-power brakes, steering
No ABS
Not as safe as 993
AC sometimes doesn't work
Valve guide issues
Pros:
Classic looks
Less $ than the 993
Has "real" targa top
The 993 1995-97
Cons:
Not as classic looking
More expensive
Targa more like a large sunroof
Some have carbon buildup issues
Pros:
Safer
ABS
Power assisted steering and brakes
I really like the looks of the 911 better, but safety is a big factor (have a daughter to think of) along with power assisted features. For me, the 911's heavy clutch, brakes, and steering will fatigue me after awhile I fear. I just might get tired driving. I know some like the classic feel of the road and the rawness of the 911, but I'd rather be more comfortable.
Uhhh, did I mention I like the 911 classic looks though...?
2) All 911s are very robust cars. I know its nice to say "thinking of your daughter" but if that truly was the case, a 996 would be "safer still" due to enhanced front cumple zone and multitude of airbags, not to mention ABS, TC, PSM and about 15 more acronyms
3) AC will work if you spend the time/money making sure the components stay in good working order. Will it chill you as well as a modern car? maybe not, but it does work.
4) If you get "fatigued" after a bit of using a clutch, or not having power steering, a 911 isn't really for you. See #2.. and get a tip
It sound like you want the joys of a 911 without all the inconveniences.. Sorry.. not sure such a car exists.
10-27-2008, 06:52 PM
#14
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[QUOTE=racer;5940260]1) All 911s since about 1977 have had power brakes
2) All 911s are very robust cars. I know its nice to say "thinking of your daughter" but if that truly was the case, a 996 would be "safer still" due to enhanced front cumple zone and multitude of airbags, not to mention ABS, TC, PSM and about 15 more acronyms
3) AC will work if you spend the time/money making sure the components stay in good working order. Will it chill you as well as a modern car? maybe not, but it does work.
4) If you get "fatigued" after a bit of using a clutch, or not having power steering, a 911 isn't really for you. See #2.. and get a tip
It sound like you want the joys of a 911 without all the inconveniences.. Sorry.. not sure such a car exists.[/QUOTE/]
I think you mistake my meaning. Forgive me for not being more clear. These factors I mentioned aren't inconveniences, but preferences. You're pretty quick to sign me off from the P experience...what's up with that! Everyone else here just gave me there opinions on the cars, not make judgements.
Ha.
Seriously though, the 911 is sweet looking but the 993 is too and safer to boot. Some have mentioned the 964 as good compromise, but those seem to have the most problems of all the 911 heritage. They're selling for cheaper now, but maybe that's why...issues.
Now I'm leaning towards the 993. More refinded, safer, though it does cost more bank. I like the idea too of not having to do valve guide adjs every 15k miles. Now if only I could come up with the extra cash....anyone want to loan me some dough?
2) All 911s are very robust cars. I know its nice to say "thinking of your daughter" but if that truly was the case, a 996 would be "safer still" due to enhanced front cumple zone and multitude of airbags, not to mention ABS, TC, PSM and about 15 more acronyms
3) AC will work if you spend the time/money making sure the components stay in good working order. Will it chill you as well as a modern car? maybe not, but it does work.
4) If you get "fatigued" after a bit of using a clutch, or not having power steering, a 911 isn't really for you. See #2.. and get a tip
It sound like you want the joys of a 911 without all the inconveniences.. Sorry.. not sure such a car exists.[/QUOTE/]
I think you mistake my meaning. Forgive me for not being more clear. These factors I mentioned aren't inconveniences, but preferences. You're pretty quick to sign me off from the P experience...what's up with that! Everyone else here just gave me there opinions on the cars, not make judgements.
Ha.Seriously though, the 911 is sweet looking but the 993 is too and safer to boot. Some have mentioned the 964 as good compromise, but those seem to have the most problems of all the 911 heritage. They're selling for cheaper now, but maybe that's why...issues.
Now I'm leaning towards the 993. More refinded, safer, though it does cost more bank. I like the idea too of not having to do valve guide adjs every 15k miles. Now if only I could come up with the extra cash....anyone want to loan me some dough?
10-27-2008, 10:57 PM
#15
Three Wheelin'
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I hate to say it, being the 911 lover I am, but the Boxster S I just bought may be the most fun car I've ever owned. I had a 97 and it was good, but the extra 50 hp makes it great fun. Its not going to last long though if I keep driving it WAO everywhere I go though. I'm getting about 18 MPG driving back and forth to work, but when my wife's with me I get 27 to 29. Something about the sound in my ear and I just have to keep it in the 5k to 6k range constantly. They are dirt cheap right now compared to almost any 911.