I haven't been able to find any information on advantages and/or issues related to AWD vs rear drive except the obvious (snow, ice). I'm a So CA driver and that's not a concern. For warm climate drivers, does AWD add anything to 997 driveability? Are there any maintenance or failure issues. I understand its a Borg-Warner system, but have found no other info at all on its principal of operation.

 

Most folks buy the AWD cars for all weather driving or because they like the widebody (stunning) . In terms of performance numbers a debate usually follows.

Since I have both an AWD Turbo and a rear wheel drive C2S I would recommend the two wheel drive for your climate and overall fun factor .

The C2S is light, nimble, and fun to drive .I like the narrow body on the normally aspirated car and find the car a great drive and a terrific value. It'sa few $$ cheaper to buy than the AWD car. Each car attracts better resale depending on region .

 

I have a C4 and would recommend the C2 in your climate. I love my C4, but here in Oklahoma we have plenty of bad weather of one kind or another which makes it worth the extra money to me. It has actually rained almost every day that I have owned the thing thus far. However, if this weren't the case I think the RWD 911 is as or more fun to drive and cheaper. My C4 does corner incredibly well in the dry.

 

I have a C4, and the car is a total blast to drive in Colorado. I like the wider body, as do many others who have seen it; I also have the impression the car may be slightly more stable than the C2, though that also may be self-delusion. However, when we had our three feet of snow last week I put my C4 away and brought out the Landcruiser.

 

Does anyway know how much wider the C4 is than the C2? On Porsche's website, it lists the widths for both as 71.18 (even the wheelbase for the two models is the same, 92.52).

 

It seems to me I've read that the wheelbase is 2" greater on the C4 than on the C2. The 'hips' on the C4 are noticeably wider than on the C2.

 

NB is 71.2" and WB is 72.9" wide.

 

The C4 will feel more planted in the corner, but a bit heavier.
The C2 will feel light and agile, has quick change-of-directions, but slightly twitchy out of a corner.

 

I've had a 997 C2S and 997 C4S and if i lived in your neck of the woods I'd go for the C2S, much more nimble, plus you'll get more trunk space!!!!!!

That said i live in the great white north and love my C4S

w

 

Warm climate? C2/C2S