IDENTITY, WHEELS AND BODYWORK
Visually, only the electronic Carrera spoiler, the full-width rear light bar (missing from the later early 997 C4S) and the loss of both rear wheel arch vents differentiate this imposing, naturally aspirated machine from a full-blooded Turbo. Even now, twenty years after its introduction, the 996 4S looks like it means business.
Styling isn’t the only similarity between the 996 Turbo and C4S. The naturally aspirated car also borrows the eighteen-inch wheel styling of its force-fed cousin. The twisty five-spokes measure eight inches wide at the front and eleven at the rear, with Turbo-equalling 225 and 295-section tyres respectively. 330mm drilled discs and four-piston monobloc calipers occupy the corners, while the suspension uses Turbo parts to sit firmer and 10mm lower than any other 996 Carrera.
The easiest way to correctly verify the identity of the car you're looking at is to check its VIN. Make sure it matches what’s printed on the V5. Elsewhere on the same document, you’ll see the car’s engine number.
Spend a tenner at mycarcheck.com, where you can download a history report outlining any insurance claims, change of registration number, recorded mileage and whether there is any outstanding finance on the C4S you're looking at. You should also enter the car's details into the DVLA’S MOT database (visit bit.ly/dvlamot), a service returning all passes, failures and advisories as far back as records are stored. Additionally, take advantage of the Suncoast Parts Porsche VIN decoder ( bit.ly/suncoastvin), which will provide you with a Porschespecific build sheet in exchange for just $10. This document will let you know exactly how the car left the factory, including model specification and any Individual Equipment items optioned.
The bodywork on the 996 is of the highest quality (Porsche provided a ten-year anti-rust warranty). With the exception of the area below the door catches (primarily early 996s), rust is rare and may therefore be evidence of a badly repaired smack. Check the body carefully for dents and signs of repair. Also check underneath the car for a misshaped floorpan, another sure sign the car has been involved in an accident. Ask for details of any damage and repairs, and make sure you see receipts for the work. Be satisfied with the quality of any repairs before making an offer for the car.