fpena944 wrote: โThu Mar 07, 2024 3:13 pm
diddy2003 wrote: โThu Mar 07, 2024 2:58 pm
fpena944 wrote: โThu Mar 07, 2024 2:19 pm
Holy crap!!!
186 MPH in an NA 996!!!
So given all of the challenges he discussed with putting the DFI engine into this chassis, what does he gain by going with this engine compared to something from Raby that addresses all of the M96's weak points?
Or is this an example of thinking an alternative was going to be cheaper/easier but once you get in there it really isn't?
I believe, from recollection, that he was trying to do something a little different and then opened up a giant can of worms. Very cool build, but I believe that the builders of the car have zero interest in doing another one. I think the exhaust costs more than the original car did. With the recent crop of engine swaps (LS, K24, Audi 2.7) unsure if anyone will be interested in doing another due to the headache/expense. I'm personally leaning towards the 3.8/4L route.
I've got almost 200k on my cabrio so looking at what options I'll have going forward. The sticky point for me though is that I could probably just buy another 2002 996 with fewer miles than it will cost me to rebuild the engine and recondition the top, suspension, and interior. But I've had this car for close to 14 years so kind of attached to it.
But I'm also thinking a 4 liter M96 rebuild would be the ideal way to go - although expensive!
These cars are hard in that, what's the price of enjoyment? For me, this car is like a heavily discounted bargain of an amazing sports car. I have had the benefit of driving many different great cars, and every time I drive mine after, it reminds me of how good it is. Hell, I've driven 996.2 GT3, 997.1 GT3, 997.2 GT3, and 991.2 GT3. All ceramic brake manual cars. I'm not so sure they are $100k+ "better" cars.
So, with that in mind, a 4.0L is also a heavily discounted bargain, even at around $30K depending. Does the engine make it a GT3? I think we all would agree no. But, it would bring it right on par with the power. I'm probably into my car about $55k ish with purchase price and parts. That a hell of a bargain considering.
My buddy owns an engine shop in central MA. MC Racing. He will be building my 3.8L if I end of going that route. I was close to really thinking of importing a 996.1 GT3. I really do love the idea, but I'm not so sure that car is worth double mine based on enjoyment alone.
I do love what Jethro did. An amazing idea that worked out in the end for him. But probably wouldn't be the best idea moving forward for anyone else, especially with all the other options (cheaper) available.