Porsche 996 Carrera 4
The first water-cooled, all-wheel-drive 911 Carrera, the 996 C4 offers all-weather performance and a modern driving experience at an accessible price point for Porsche enthusiasts.
Find one with Spotter →Porsche 996 Carrera 4 sold for a median of $25,954 over the last 12 months, based on 100 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $21,145 and $33,424. 296 currently for sale.
The 996 Carrera 4 introduced all-wheel drive to the first generation of water-cooled 911s, offering enhanced stability and all-weather capability. Sharing the M96 flat-six engine with its rear-wheel-drive sibling, the C4 added a viscous multi-plate clutch system that could send between 5% and 40% of the power to the front wheels. This added about 120 pounds but provided a significant traction advantage, making it a popular choice for drivers in varied climates.
For years, the 996 generation was an overlooked chapter in the 911 story, primarily due to its departure from air-cooled engines and its controversial 'fried egg' headlights. That perception has shifted, and collectors now see the 996 C4 as an accessible entry into modern 911 ownership. With an average sale price under $30,000, it represents a strong value proposition, combining classic Porsche driving dynamics with everyday usability.
The market for the 996 Carrera 4 is mature, with values that reflect condition and maintenance history above all else. Low-mileage, well-documented examples fetch premium prices, while driver-quality cars offer an affordable way to get behind the wheel. As later 911 generations become more complex and expensive, the 996's analog feel and straightforward performance continue to attract new enthusiasts.
Buying Tips
- Insist on a pre-purchase inspection that includes a borescope check for scoring, a common M96 engine issue.
- Verify if the IMS bearing has been replaced with an upgraded unit. If not, budget for this preventative maintenance job, which costs around $2,500-$4,000.
- Check for coolant leaks from the front radiators, which are susceptible to damage from road debris, and look for cracks in the plastic coolant expansion tank in the engine bay.
- Look for oil leaks, particularly from the rear main seal (RMS), which is a frequent source of drips between the engine and transmission.
- Test the all-wheel-drive system. Listen for any binding or grinding noises from the front differential during low-speed, tight turns.
Based on 60 recent sales, prices range from $7,500 for project cars to nearly $69,000 for exceptional, low-mileage examples.
1,048 Porsche 996 Carrera 4 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 296 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Porsche 996 Carrera 4 cost?
Over the last 12 months, Porsche 996 Carrera 4 sold for a median of $25,954 across 100 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $21,145 and $33,424. There are 296 currently for sale.
How many Porsche 996 Carrera 4 listings are for sale right now?
There are 296 Porsche 996 Carrera 4 listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.