[racer]

C4S is a beautiful, if a tad heavy car. I wish you luck on your search.

Mike Focke has a great website that, while geared to the Boxster, many of the issues and challenges also present themselves to 996 owners. IMS, RMS, D chunk (mostly the 3.4motors); Air-Oil Seperators (AOS); Coolant tank failures, Waterpumps; ignition switches;

x2 on finding a CPO or quality aftermarket warranty coverage. The big concern of all M96 motors is not IF but WHEN they fail. A crate motor, plus install is likely a $15K expense. Be aware of it. It may NEVER be an issue for you. Or it could hit you on day 2 despite a quality pre purchase inspection.

C4S prices seem higher than other regular 996 prices. While I bet you could do an autotrader search and find them for as low as $30k, I imagine a genuinely nice, well maintained and cared for example will have a $40K ish asking price

Which leads to.. well.. if a nice 996 C4S is 40s, and a 997 Base can be seen mid 40s, maybe the jump to the newer model should be considered.