Why does a C4 "handle" better?
 

I'm an early 911 guy but am very interested in picking up a used 993. A couple of articles I have read talk about the C4 being a "better handling" car than the standard 993. My mechanic and racing buddies tell me I absolutely do not want a C4 at all. It's pretty confusing.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of the C4 in a climate where it never snows and very rarely rains?

I drove my 964 C4 in LA for 5 yrs. It was always great fun to drive (Mulholland and other twisty roads). No problems for me in handling, and was able to keep up with Ducatis and other crotch rockets. It also never burned rubber on sprints. Not sure why anyone wouldn't want one, unless they are ig.

Some of the much touted drawbacks of a C4 are the increased weight due to the AWD tranny, and the tendency to understeer. At the track these are definitely things to keep in mind, but with the proper driving techniques the AWD can be just as quick as a C2. For everyday driving, you really can't beat a C4. Although not everyone will have to worry about driving in the snow, nobody can escape the rain (unless you just don't drive it in the rain). The extra stability and safety of the AWD system and the PDAS traction control is a definite benefit in an everyday driver. But hey, I've got a C4 so maybe I'm a bit biased. ;)
Brian