why are 996 so cheap?

[Milo2361]

i'm going to be in the market for a new p-car in the next 3 years or so, and i was wondering why, even the later 996s with the engine failure problem solved, are they so dang cheap? I don't know if Ebay is really the best price guide, but comparing a 2003 996 vs 2005 997 in exact same condition, basically same mileage(80,000 or so) on the ones i was looking at, the 2003 was $24,000 and the 2005 was $35,000.

[JFG]

I don't think they solved the engine problem as much as came up with a solution, buy a new engine. As far as price, it all comes down to supply and demand. They built a lot of these cars, the 997 as well. I can not see the 997 holding its value either. I think the only current Porsche that will hold its value is the GT3.

[Rrrockhound]

The 997 is a newer, improved model that doesn't have the same reputation for engine issues and with styling and an interior that most people prefer. And they're all just used cars, not rare enough or special enough to command top dollar and too old for somebody who can afford a new Porsche.

[Milo2361]

Very good points. I guess another question i have is, they didn't fix the engine problems on the 996 when they changed from the 3.4 to the 3.6 in 2001(i think)?

[Jimb15psi]

Check other cars like BMWs, Benz, .... and you will also see some great deals. Porsche is not the only one.

Tight credit, 10-17% unemployment, job security and uncertain economy are factors.

Unless a car has a strong following, it can't avoid supply/demand, maintenance factors, and depreciation. You see 993's being affected, and they have a strong following.

[Rrrockhound]

Originally Posted by Milo2361

Very good points. I guess another question i have is, they didn't fix the engine problems on the 996 when they changed from the 3.4 to the 3.6 in 2001(i think)?

The change came in '02, but the IMS design wasn't changed, hence, the same issues.

Here are a couple of good links to read on engine issues:

High mile role call - RennTech.org Forums

Reliability of 996 Engines - RennTech.org Forums

[Milo2361]

Thanks for the info!
I mean i'd love to stick with an older aircooled model, but a newer one wouldn't(shouldn't...) have near the problems or need constant maintenence, and i shouldn't have to drive one around for an hour just to get it warmed up all the way on a cold day(not that i don't like doing that, mind you)

I still want to stick with the Porsche name, my original thought was either a Cayman S or a 997(i'd rather have a 997, because hey, its a 911... ) ... depending on price, location, how much money i have when the time is right, etc...