Coupe vs. Convertible

[Burke B.]

I have just purchased a 2003 996. While I was shopping, I noticed that the convertibles are typically about $5000 less than the coupes, even though they cost more new. Any thoughts on the reasons?

I love the car but am noticing it is using some oil and it smokes some during warm up. No leaks I can see. I read that this is normal to a point. Is this common? My car has 48000 miles.

The previous owner installed a Numeric Racing shifter and cables. I like the operation but the cables are noisy. He wrapped them for some improvement, but still more grind than I would like. I am considering having a mechanic open the console and putting in insulation. Any opinions?

[450knotOffice]

Congratulations on your purchase.

The Cabriolets are a little less sought after by the enthusiast crowd due to the slightly higher weight over the Coupes and somewhat lower chassis rigidity. That worked out well for you though.

The slight smoke on startup is a pretty normal thing with any flat four or six engine. Some oil will typically collect in a few cylinders while the engine is shut down for 12+ hours and will be burned during the first few seconds after startup. The longer the engine has been shut down, the more likely you'll see that blue smoke. It should dissipate quickly though.

I have nothing to add with regard to the noisy cables.

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by Burke B.

I have just purchased a 2003 996. While I was shopping, I noticed that the convertibles are typically about $5000 less than the coupes, even though they cost more new. Any thoughts on the reasons?

I love the car but am noticing it is using some oil and it smokes some during warm up. No leaks I can see. I read that this is normal to a point. Is this common? My car has 48000 miles.

The previous owner installed a Numeric Racing shifter and cables. I like the operation but the cables are noisy. He wrapped them for some improvement, but still more grind than I would like. I am considering having a mechanic open the console and putting in insulation. Any opinions?

Rag top cars are more maintence intensive (cleaning the top, rear window, resealing top, replacing top, keeping drains clear, etc.) than a hardtop. Cost of ownership is higher.

Have a properly equipped shop test your crankcase vacuum level (should be ~ 5 inches of water vacuum) with the engine fully warmed up. If it is running higher, you are in the market for a new AOS.

[Burke B.]

Thanks for the information.

[racer]

On the other hand, imho, I think they become more appealing the less sporty the use. for me, I would love a nice 356Cab over a coupe, since I would only want to enjoy on nice warm days.. or take the kids/grandkids out in it.

But as mentioned in the first post, its those who want "racecars" or that closer connection to a walter mitty lifestyle that have pushed the Coupe to be more pricy. Great time to buy a cab then!

[BYprodriver]

Where you live is a big factor also.

[gaijin]

Adding that convertibles have water drain plugs that easily get clogged. Make sure you inspect and clean them occasionally. Enjoy your drop top!

[Paul1949]

Or if you're say ..... bald.

[jenniferandliz]

agreed

[Burke B.]

Thanks, all. I did not indicate in my original post that I bought the coupe, and it works for me.