Early Production 996: 1999 Porsche 911 Convertible – SOLD!

March 18, 2022, Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

We have long said the 996 Porsche 911 is one of the best sports car buys out there, and while prices continue to fluctuate wildly for any number of vehicles, the 996 is seemingly holding steady. This 1999 911 convertible comes with the preferred six-speed manual was originally listed in March 2022 on Craigslist in Austin, Texas with under 100,000 miles and a very novel paint scheme consisting of a blue interior, all for $26,900. Comparing that price against the Hagerty Price Guide shows us that the seller has priced his convertible 996 between an “Excellent” condition model valued at $35,000 and a “Good” condition example worth $24,000.

It’s amazing how quickly a narrative can change. For years, the 996 was maligned by the car-loving public for its modern, water-cooled engine. Unfair or not, you can’t blame 911 fans for mourning the loss of what was a classic formula. And, like every new generation of a classic model these days, the 996 was perceived as bigger and less sporting than its 993 sibling. In reality, the 996 likely wasn’t as dramatic of a departure from the 993 as it was made out to be – but the loss of the air-cooled mill dominated the conversation. Now, a fair point of concern was the troublesome intermediate shaft bearing (“IMS”) that can legitimately transform a healthy, water-cooled engine into an instant boat anchor. However, very early 996s such as this example featured a double-roller unit with an extremely low failure rate. That combined with the fact this car has 92K miles means there’s a very high probability you can wait until the next clutch service to address the bearing at the same time.

The Men&Motors YouTube Channel features this review from 1998 when the 996 version of the 911 debuted:

The 911 is a 1999 model, which puts it at the early end of the 996 generation. So, understanding that buying a 996 like this requires you to keep your eyes wide open in terms of some immediate maintenance expenses, you begin to look at other qualities. The color scheme is definitely unique, featuring a Polar Silver exterior over a Metropol Blue interior. The carpets are gorgeous, and the blue is very muted, almost like a dark navy. It’s handsome, but when talking about the interior, we’re most excited to see a convertible model equipped with three pedals. The 911 comes with a pretty blue convertible top along with the factory painted-to-match hardtop. While some 996s seemingly escape ever needing IMS replacement, you’d have to have nerves of steel to drive this car without that work done; that said, there is some evidence to suggest that if it’s made it this far without it, you may be in the clear. Good luck with the purchase if you take this clean 996 home.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1999 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet

This 996 was ordered in a very sought-after color combination you don’t see every day.

Polar Silver over Metropol Blue Interior

Comes with the original paint matched hardtop

This car has an early 1998 Build date

Clean California Title In hand

6 Speed Manual Transmission

92k Miles

This car is very clean inside & out – shows very well

Pictures taken 3/10/2022 – They speak for themselves

This car runs great – Very fun & engaging car to drive – Ready to be enjoyed

Everything works on the car

Top works flawlessly

Interior is in amazing condition

Paint is excellent – very nice

Like new Michelin Pilot Sport Tires

You’d be hard pressed to find another car like this for the money

Also have all original Tools, spare & accessories from when purchased new

I have no information on the IMS

I can help with shipping very affordably nationwide

Please look at all comparables beforehand

Not a dealer – No payments – No bank loans – No trades

I am asking $26900 cash, serious buyers ready to buy only, please respect my time & I will do the same

Please look at all comparebles before contacting me.”

Bargain buy: will the 996 stay cheap forever or is now the time to buy?