Will a Porsche 911 996 C2 be a money pit?

What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Will a Porsche 911 996 C2 be a money pit?

I have my eye on a Porsche 911 996 C2 cabriolet, the ‘facelifted’ version with 3.6-litre engine etc. It’s a 2002 with 58,000 on the clock and a full service history (Porsche main dealer for years 1-3 and an independent specialist since). At £18,000 it looks like a lot of car for the money. On the one hand I’m thinking it can’t depreciate a whole lot more and on the other that I could potentially be buying a money pit. I would welcome your thoughts.

Asked on 30 March 2013 by SS, East Sussex

Answered by Honest John

Risky, because a new engine is £12,000 or more and is often required. See: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/porsche/911-996-c2-c.../

A 997 is less risky, even if it means forgoing the soft top to get one for the same money. Autocar did a useful buying guide to 911s in its 27 February 2013 issue.

Tags: depreciation petrol engines reliability sports cars

Similar questions

Would you recommend a Morgan over a Porsche Boxter S?

When I eventually change my BMW Z4 35is, I think that the natural choice would be a Boxster S. However, I have no need for a practical car at all and wonder if a Morgan (perhaps a 2-litre 4-seater) would...

Are there any sports cars which don't depreciate heavily?

I'm thinking of spoiling myself and spending £40,000 or more on a retirement present. So which sports car would you recommend that will not lose money long-term? Perhaps going for something like a Porsche...

Should I buy a Porsche 911 993 or a TVR Tuscan?

I have been a keen follower of your column and am writing to you as I am now finally in a position to buy my first sports car, having saved up for many years. I am looking at secondhand cars and am looking...