Worst? I Think the new 992 is the worst. first its way to exspensive. Second, they still have the old 911 headlights from the 60s. Thirth, no one buys it.
@@EdgasketGarage way to talk sh*t on it though. IMS bearing usually takes effect early on. Every ACTUAL porsche mechanic will tell you how rare IMS issues are this many years later. Also 996.2 headlights are clean and not the same as these. atleast give a fair response. 996s are the last of the drivers' 911s. Now they're all digital assistance. FOH
@@thefreedomguyuk You're "The Freedom Guy" criticizing this guy for enjoying the freedom he has to do whatever he wants with his purchase? Should change your name to the TheJackassHyprocrite Guy maybe.
I bought my first Porsche, a 986, at the end of 2003 precisely to get the original Boxster as the model change was announced at that time. 996 and 986 are the cars that saved Porsche from bankruptcy. The lights in particular were modelled after the Le Mans racers and look fantastic. I still have the car today and I enjoy it just as much and so do my sons. It never let us down.
The headlights are iconic and (now) look fantastic. Those covers, however, are f*cking disgusting and anyone fitting them should have their keys taken off them.
@@EdgasketGarage - Funny that french Porsche specialized since 1990 magazine "Flat 6", doesn’t share that same opinion on which the 996, is the least desirable 911!… Actually, just by chance I’ve short ago driven a 964, and…How happy I felt by having chosen a 996 C4S five years ago over any of the "so desirable" air-cooled 911s, with that driving position, floor hinged pedals, splited side window and their A/C that couldn’t even really "acclimatize" the car (exactly because it was air-colled), designed in 1963?… Not for me, thank you!
There is no way in hell I would put plastic on my 996 to pretend it looks better... lol. Im not one to follow the crowd ever. I bought my 996 turbo because its different from the average VW beetle head lights look on Porsche. I actually think its the best looking Porsche ever designed. I will probably buy this classic version of the 996. My Turbo version has the updated fried eggs look... but I want the first edition of the fried eggs headlights. Porsche can continue to make the same old headlights for years to come, but my 996 will stand alone from the crowd.
Am I angry you did this and called the 996 the worst 911? Yes! You have offended me and my honour! I am not happy. (I'm kidding btw, okish content here, at least you painted it so it blends in, but I do like the originals!)
@@EdgasketGarage I'm only messing mate, enjoy your channel a lot and followed your builds. Looking forward to the 996 turbo. I love the 996, but do have a 991 so not too fussed with the bad points of the car, I still have my cassettes for the 996! Lol
By faar it loook woorse with those add ons, 996 is not that bad perhaps if it has ambar turn signals , just made them clear and thats it..... a stock 996 looks better than a conversion or else
This video is hilarious, I love it. Good luck with all the Porsche purists in the comments, they tend to take things very seriously for pedantic reasons. Just don’t take them as seriously as they take their cars
funny nobody ever says that the 911 GT1 (996 lights) is ugly even thou exact same lights.. i have a 996 with gt3 body kit and looks killer.. if you want to improve the interior of those monocromatic interiors get some color accents, i swapped out alot of my grey interior for black (steering wheel, center console .. etc) if anything is bad about this gen 911 are the seats 100% uncomfortable ,,, some aftermarket Recaros and away we go!!!
You know you can buy just the little triangle piece to fix those headlights instead of covering them. Which by the way, will cause more heat retention and kill bulbs faster. Lot of 996 haters just because of the headlights 🙄 that were designed to mimic the Le Mans LMP1 cars like the 957, 917K and 911GT1.
Yes I have the triangle pieces. Took mine out because of the headlight washers not working correctly. I’m far less of a 996 fan because of the engine. The headlights are not cool (IMO) but they are certainly a piece if 911 history.
@@EdgasketGarage my daughters 986S washers are also not working. I was going to remove then plug the pump lines and just get those covers. How do you feel about the mezger engines of different porsche generations? The turbo and GT 996's have mezger designed engines. I assume it's the M96 engines that you don't like.
OK, this video just randomly popped up and I watched it. I have to say you just ruined that car and probably lowered its value by a few thousand. Sorry but it looks hideous. The original headlights are pretty good and are actually bringing some much needed freshness to the porsche round headlight ideology. The IMS is not that big of a deal since most 996 sold today already had the new one installed. As for the interior, it is also not bad and is a big step up from the previous gen. All in all, I have to say a big thank you to all the porsche purists who managed to keep the prices of this beauty at an attainable level. 😂
The car was sold and headlight covers removed. A fun project for a fun car. IMS no longer a major concern. Bore scoring and cylinder head cracking major concern.
Other 911’s have had their issues, my old 77 911S was prone to head studs cracking. I think my 03 C4S is a fine looking car, the wide body 996’s look great from all angles. One thing all generations share is the sheer fun of driving them.
Thank you sir for making this video. Hopefully it has convinced many people to just not buy the "worst 911". To everyone who stumbles upon this video, yes the 996 is in fact a terrible car, that will look terrible, drive terrible and whose engine will explode right after you purchase it. Do not buy them.
If you don’t like the headlights, why did you buy a 996? It’s a great car-embrace the fried eggs…they’re a descendant of Porsche racing heritage. This is a mod that screams wannabe!
What are you talking about? You are over opinionated and in my OPINION shouldn't be allowed to own one. 996s are great 911s...in Australia they are $70k and continue to up in value fried egg headlights or not! IMS bearing happened over 20 years ago - who hasn't repaired this issue by now. Interior was much better than the 993 just check it out Mr.
Every time you said it was the worst 911 was like a dagger in my shriveled little 996.1 owner’s heart😭I don’t care what anyone says I love my runny egg car and it’s the only one I could afford so I have learned to love it, warts and all.
I did the same mod a few years back. But, I really started to like the "fried eggs" and removed them. It takes a while, bit the "fried eggs" grow on you! Maybe they were just ahead of their time?
Looks far worse than before. I definitely am not in love with my .2 headlights, but do not care enough to do anything about it. This, this, is just crap and looks like you tried too hard to fix something that did not need attention. Cheers.
who ever said it looks good on the car, he lied to you. That looks hideous. 😂holy shit, i thought before it looked bad before but right now it looks 10 time worse.
I don‘t say this lightly: Time was kind towards the 996s optics and reputation. These covers on the other hand… They existed for ages and even Porsche themselves offered headlight covers… they did not sell that many. Looks like a highlighting afterthought imho. Edit: The fit towards the bumpers ruin it
Modifying a 911 immediately prior to sale when it's universally known that unmodified examples sell for the most money, regardless of generation. By any chance do you have an 'ugly' and modded GT3 to sell me too?
Wrong in so many ways, 996.2 , C4S Cab has the best looking ass of all the Porsche’s. IMS is a cheap easy fix, haven’t had a single problem, as far as the headlights..... loved them on the GT1, love them on my car....... in 10 years, Everyone is going to want one!
One rule I've learned in looking into buying a 911 is to keep it as original as possible. For the 996, there will be about as many who will like this as who will hate that it isn't in the original state. This objectively looks better to me than stock, though.
The 996 has aged beautifully, the basic 996 Carrera has an elegance and purity of the original early air cooled 911. Yes, the cars have their issues, and build quality is not the 996’s strong point, however it carries the 911 DNA and was the basis for all the later water cooled cars that followed. The simplicity of design of this era 911 and indeed the 986 Boxster (with which it shares the front end - and headlights) has come into its own now when compared to todays over exaggerated and complex variants, proving that in many ways, less is indeed more. And as for the 996’s (and 986’s) headlights, though controversial at the time, they have become one of its defining features, and now look better than ever. Anyone who can’t see past the 996’s headlights is missing a trick, and although the 997 is indeed a better built 911 and has many of the purists design features reinstated, drive and early 3.4 996 and 997.1 back to back, and tell me which is the purer and more driver focused car?! - It’s the 996.
I was going to write how much I like my headlights on my '03 the way they are, but seems I'm late to that party. Aside from your crrazy dislike for a car youve owned two of, I like your video. Do more. Thanks!
Ed, I am the original owner of a 1999 C2. When this car came out it was heralded by the automotive magazines as one of the best 911's ever made. It tracked faster, had a better coefficient of drag, wasn't spin crazy, had a real air conditioning and smoked corvettes. In fact it was so good that it sold more copies than any other 911 model in history. Nobody, and I mean nobody hated the headlights. There is understandable resentment that it shared the front end with the Boxster. But again, nobody hated the Boxster headlights either. That all being said, I've had mine for 25 years, it steel runs, pulls and handles great. Interior while plasticky has in held up very well. I think the switch from air cooled to water and sanitizing of the car over previous generations were the biggest complaints (understandably). If you are a real fan of Porsche's, the Boxster and 911 of the late 90's saved the auto company and for that we should be thankful.
Uhhhh. I definitely hated these headlights when it came out, and yes I was an adult in 1999 and a sports car fanatic. IMO, this was a massive step backwards from the 993 in terms of looks. I was OK with the switch to water, that made sense, but visually it was garbage, and eventually looked just like an ugly Boxster. When 2005 rolled around and they fixed the headlights, that was when I felt Porsche was truly back in the game. Just like when Jeep ditched those hideous square headlights. Dude's not wrong. The 996, especially THAT 996, are the worst Porsche's ever made. As for smoking a corvette. Come on, dude. 4.6 vs 4.7 isn't exactly gapping anyone. Also, be careful with those industry rags. This was the era where new vehicles (PT cruiser, anyone?) were given car of the year because they were bought and paid for, and that's not even accounting for the tweaked testers that were built to perform for editors. Glad you like(d) your car, though.
@@negotiatewithleverage4763 I actually like them more than the 993 headlights. I think those look bad. never liked how they tilted the original. But TBH, I still love the original upright circles the best.
@@EdgasketGarage He is not alone Ed. 996 is a great looking car, and the GT1 headlights look great. I also prefer the interior to later model 911s including the 997.
MASSIVE improvement....great info and great job on sharing an extremely helpful bit of info that really resolves the aesthetic issue of that front end. Calling the stock headlights "Iconic" is the coward's way of avoiding the reality that they're simply ugly...and actually...no, they're not "iconic" when every other model of the car is round headlights....the round headlight is what's "iconic" as the ugly lights are and will never be an "icon" representation of the company. The silhouette of the bathtub shape of a 911 is iconic....but again...the adolescents will try and ascribe "glory" to ugly by using a fancy term that is wrongly applied. That's this era of idiots....over and over....instead of growing up they choose to live in a fantasy since it's just always easier and the easy life is what this generation is all about....not character, no growth, not hard work, not ethics, not love, not helping others, not serving others...just taking the easy way and denying simple obvious things as simple as "yes....the headlights that are ugly are actually ugly".
Typically, only uptight 911 purists find them ugly. Every time I explain to a non-Porschetard why my car is hated by the purists they wonder how those people became so retarded as to think that a pair of bug eyes sticking out of the fenders are better than sleekly molded lights. I do acknowledge that the yellow is kinda ugly, fortunately mine are de-yolked.
@@DonziGT230 Grow up bud....your entire thread reeks of immature whining with your identity wrapped up in having a Porsche. No one cares sincerely, and it's never ever going to mean anything whether you have a Porsche or not, whether it's attractive, or not. ....and no, it's not purists that have taste....I happened to show my own father not long ago these headlight and it was a simple "no those are ugly". Why? Because they're not a sleek, sultry, artistic line...they are that shape without a reason...except...we actually DO know the reason....and it was simply that they already had them laying around, already designed, and so they got slapped onto that model just like Lamborghini uses the headlights from a Nissan 300Z except those actually look good.
I also agree that the current trajectory of society isn't exactly positive and that we are facing some serious problems but the shape of a 20 year old car's headlights and what some people say about them seems really low on that list...
@@d-phoenix2198 Do you mean like commenting on a stranger's opinion on a global platform called the internet might ALSO be pretty low on the "list" you mention, (when there is no list?) regarding sharing opinions in contrast to greater life issues? So exactly what is your point other than inane hypocrisy? And bud...no matter how good or how bad life is or gets, people will always have opinions and personalities and express both....so may want to do some adapting. And...it's not "what some people say about them"....the point made was about maturity, and how it's lacking....and the EVIDENCE of that and the frustration of THAT is people getting their identity associated with their car when a car has nothing to do with who a person is....what defines a person is their character.....not what design of what vehicle they chose to spend their money on. We all spend money, and we all have different abilities to be responsible or irresponsible in how that money is spent, also a function of maturity in many cases.
In South Africa a 996 goes for $14000, sometimes a little less depending on the condition... I'd buy one and do an offroad conversion... might look sick considering the latest porsche models have offroad 911 variants
2:45 TBH I don't think the headlights are the main issue. a 2008 cayman and a 2009 cayman have a $20,000 difference, that's because of a the IMS bearing issue, and that issue plagues these cars too. Some people have grown to really like the fried egg look, if it was truly the case then we could easily find 15k models with under 80k miles in the market. I've still seen 996's going for $25k 30k and even 35k for that much.
I probably agree they are the least pretty of all 911 headlights……but original still looks far better any aftermarket “solution”. Those things you fitted scream aftermarket Chinese tat.
Great and fun video! Former 996 owner here. I strongly believe that the ONLY reason people (and when I say "people" I really mean Porsche fanatics because regular people couldn't care less about the headlights) is because the Boxster used the same headlights. While I do prefer the looks of the round headlights, the 996 lights aren't bad. I guarantee, if the Boxster front end was different than the 996, very few people would complain about them. Also, beside the head crack and the IMS, there is the RMS, bore score, AOS intermix, and a bunch of other issues with the M96 engine. Wonderful car but bad engine.
@@thefreedomguyuk-Wrong! 996 is descendant from 356 (after several 911 iterations), which was there since 1948!… 986 (Boxter) is descendant from 550 Spyder, RS 60, RS 61 and RSK, all them from the 50’s!… In other words, 996 DNA is there "before" 986’s to tell his story!…
NGL To the people who say "own the fried egg look" and etc. I think it makes it look like a 993, which is completely fine. This is something that can always be taken off, so fak.
Hi, I see you that you installed the cover on the car, would it be easier to secure the cover on the headlight off the car? Just wondering. Great video, thanks.
These cars remind me of my childhood, and playing Need For Speed: Porsche Unleashed. I personally love the headlight design of the 996. I had no idea about the motor issues, although if I had enough money to buy one of these cars, I don't think that would sway my decision much.
All this rot to sell a pair of headlight covers???? What super car doesnt have issues? Only 1 percent of very early 996s had engine failure. From seeing your 996 on here it looks fairly good for a near 25 year old car. Funny your plastic head light covers look worse!
@Ed Gasket Keep up the good work! Actually saw those on a blue 996 turbo today.🙄
8 месяцев назад
The previous owner of my 996.1 Cabriolet had added these light covers to make the headlights look round. I recently pulled them off, and, well, I think it looks better. I think the “fried eggs” have aged way better than anyone might have anticipated. The engine? Well, I’ve recently crossed 165,000km and the engine is running great. But I am vigilant and as soon as I see anything developing, I’m going to weigh my options carefully.
It’s not a bad car but it is the worst of the 911 line. You can’t find any running/driving 911’s for 15-20 grand - (other than 996’s). It will be nice if the value does start to close the gap on the 997.
He admits 996 costs 1/2 the price of a traditional headlight model … I don’t look at the headlights when I drive which is the point of a 911.. I’ve driven mine for 8 years with no issues other than preventive replacements … I hate to fool with the headlights ..
Great video. Currently own 2 over at Johnny's car care and reviews. Mostly love with a little hate. I will be dropping in the black headlight replacements once I figure out if I will put them on the black or red 911
Idk about you guys but I don't care for the look of these headlight covers. I think they look kind of cheap (even if they may cost a lot). I think they would look a lot better if they were a replacement lens that was flush all across the surface instead of a polymer cover that rests on top of the headlight. I'm sure that would cost a ton considering they would be a mix of clear lens and the cover all molded into one piece and installation would entail disassembling the whole headlight housing BUT... I think the upgrade in looks would outweigh the pain in the wallet.
I have owned a 2003 996 C2 Cab for fourteen years and I love the mk2 headlights and I think it looks 100x better than your cover option. Just wait and see, in years to come people are going to want a 996 for the very same reason and 996s are actually going up in value not down.
Is this for sale on Facebook?
yes come get it!
@@EdgasketGarage😂
Headlight covers on a 996 are like a mesh baseball cap on an otherwise handsome-ish dude.
Hahahaha
when the 911 is so good that the worst one is still a good car
100%
Couldn’t agree more sentient 1985 Honda CR-X Si
Worst? I Think the new 992 is the worst. first its way to exspensive. Second, they still have the old 911 headlights from the 60s. Thirth, no one buys it.
@@EdgasketGarage way to talk sh*t on it though. IMS bearing usually takes effect early on. Every ACTUAL porsche mechanic will tell you how rare IMS issues are this many years later. Also 996.2 headlights are clean and not the same as these. atleast give a fair response. 996s are the last of the drivers' 911s. Now they're all digital assistance. FOH
@@madskillet money talks. Its the cheapest 911 for a reason.
The headlights are iconic, one of the reasons i love the 996
It’s a fun, cheap 911!
@@EdgasketGarage So, let's buy some expensive aftermarket plastic, to make the cheap car look less than a priceless GT1 ??
@@thefreedomguyuk you can do whatever you like with yours!
@@thefreedomguyuk You're "The Freedom Guy" criticizing this guy for enjoying the freedom he has to do whatever he wants with his purchase? Should change your name to the TheJackassHyprocrite Guy maybe.
I bought my first Porsche, a 986, at the end of 2003 precisely to get the original Boxster as the model change was announced at that time. 996 and 986 are the cars that saved Porsche from bankruptcy. The lights in particular were modelled after the Le Mans racers and look fantastic. I still have the car today and I enjoy it just as much and so do my sons. It never let us down.
“I’m ….an idiot” Only sensible thing you said this entire video.
Love you too ❤️
Not sure how covering up your own fog lights and front reflectors is an "upgrade."
Visual upgrade, perhaps. Performance upgrade, not so much.
trying to upgrade the followers numbers by posting a video... :))))
@@EdgasketGarage Why not stay with the stock 996?
@@EdgasketGarage As good as adding extra aero 😂
@@Vyltax because it looks hideous
Thanks Ed for doing your part in keeping the 996 affordable 😆
Favorite comment of the day!
The headlights are iconic and (now) look fantastic. Those covers, however, are f*cking disgusting and anyone fitting them should have their keys taken off them.
Nice!
fantastic is a pretty generous stretch of the imagination
Lens covers on a 996 are akin to spinner hubcaps. Yuck. AND the 996 is NOT the worst 911, your the worst owner.
^The only people who say these things are 996 owners.
What a waste of effort, looks rubbish and definitely devalues the car
Good morning, Stew!
I like the stock early 996 headlights.
No problem with that.
W opinion
Funny thing is nobody knows the headlights are off of the GT1 that will smoke the Carrera GT.
996 is amazing. The headlights are some of the most beautiful headlights ever made. What are you tallking about.
That’s your opinion. And this is my opinion. Nothing more.
@@EdgasketGarage You're goddamn right :D
@Mr. Albatross especially the headlights of the 996.2. Those are particularly beautiful!
My motor isn’t junk. My interior is just fine. I love my $18,000 911 Carerra C4 Cabriolet 996.2.
They are cool cars. They are the least desirable 911.
@@EdgasketGarage - Funny that french Porsche specialized since 1990 magazine "Flat 6", doesn’t share that same opinion on which the 996, is the least desirable 911!…
Actually, just by chance I’ve short ago driven a 964, and…How happy I felt by having chosen a 996 C4S five years ago over any of the "so desirable" air-cooled 911s, with that driving position, floor hinged pedals, splited side window and their A/C that couldn’t even really "acclimatize" the car (exactly because it was air-colled), designed in 1963?…
Not for me, thank you!
Hilarious video! Still love the headlights on my 986 though!
Thanks for the positivity!
There is no way in hell I would put plastic on my 996 to pretend it looks better... lol. Im not one to follow the crowd ever.
I bought my 996 turbo because its different from the average VW beetle head lights look on Porsche. I actually think its the best looking Porsche ever designed.
I will probably buy this classic version of the 996. My Turbo version has the updated fried eggs look... but I want the first edition of the fried eggs headlights. Porsche can continue to make the same old headlights for years to come, but my 996 will stand alone from the crowd.
The 911 turbo can do whatever it wants. Thats a car in its own category. 🔥
Am I angry you did this and called the 996 the worst 911? Yes! You have offended me and my honour! I am not happy. (I'm kidding btw, okish content here, at least you painted it so it blends in, but I do like the originals!)
I hope people at least understand that I own 2 996’s and am looking to acquire 996 turbo! Great cars. Questionable headlights lol.
@@EdgasketGarage I'm only messing mate, enjoy your channel a lot and followed your builds. Looking forward to the 996 turbo. I love the 996, but do have a 991 so not too fussed with the bad points of the car, I still have my cassettes for the 996! Lol
By faar it loook woorse with those add ons, 996 is not that bad perhaps if it has ambar turn signals , just made them clear and thats it..... a stock 996 looks better than a conversion or else
With so many 911s to choose from, the 996 is certainly not high on the list. Thats all.
This isn't it man. it looks so unnatural. Love the OEM 996 Headlights by the way,
It’s an option, if nothing else! Cheers
This video is hilarious, I love it. Good luck with all the Porsche purists in the comments, they tend to take things very seriously for pedantic reasons. Just don’t take them as seriously as they take their cars
Well said
We need 11 likes for the 996
Working on it.
funny nobody ever says that the 911 GT1 (996 lights) is ugly even thou exact same lights.. i have a 996 with gt3 body kit and looks killer.. if you want to improve the interior of those monocromatic interiors get some color accents, i swapped out alot of my grey interior for black (steering wheel, center console .. etc) if anything is bad about this gen 911 are the seats 100% uncomfortable ,,, some aftermarket Recaros and away we go!!!
100% gotta break up that grey interior!
go with the elephant ears
I'd never trade my amber lights for anything. They're what make the 996 so appealing!
Amber is a vibe!
Looks worse. The 996.1 headlights may be ugly to some, but for some of us it looks great and gives it character. The covers make it look ricey.
I don't think the next owner kept the covers.
Actually in Uk & Eu the 996 is very sought after even more so than a 997 :( Which i have :)
You can have them all haha!
You’re totally. Utterly. Completely wrong about the investment side.
I might be wrong but only the future will tell.
You know you can buy just the little triangle piece to fix those headlights instead of covering them. Which by the way, will cause more heat retention and kill bulbs faster.
Lot of 996 haters just because of the headlights 🙄 that were designed to mimic the Le Mans LMP1 cars like the 957, 917K and 911GT1.
Yes I have the triangle pieces. Took mine out because of the headlight washers not working correctly. I’m far less of a 996 fan because of the engine. The headlights are not cool (IMO) but they are certainly a piece if 911 history.
@@EdgasketGarage my daughters 986S washers are also not working. I was going to remove then plug the pump lines and just get those covers.
How do you feel about the mezger engines of different porsche generations? The turbo and GT 996's have mezger designed engines. I assume it's the M96 engines that you don't like.
@@randominternetuser2888 LOVE the Mezger 996 motor
OK, this video just randomly popped up and I watched it. I have to say you just ruined that car and probably lowered its value by a few thousand. Sorry but it looks hideous. The original headlights are pretty good and are actually bringing some much needed freshness to the porsche round headlight ideology. The IMS is not that big of a deal since most 996 sold today already had the new one installed. As for the interior, it is also not bad and is a big step up from the previous gen. All in all, I have to say a big thank you to all the porsche purists who managed to keep the prices of this beauty at an attainable level. 😂
The car was sold and headlight covers removed. A fun project for a fun car. IMS no longer a major concern. Bore scoring and cylinder head cracking major concern.
Why change a porche design? It's unique and desirable
Easily removed if the regret were to set in
I can't tell if you are spoofing us or not. I appreciate that.
Still trying to figure that out myself.
That looks dug shite!
The consensus no doubt
The 996 is not the worst 911. Love the gen 1 headlights. Haters be damned...
Fortunately there are many round headlight options for the haters. (All more expensive)
Other 911’s have had their issues, my old 77 911S was prone to head studs cracking. I think my 03 C4S is a fine looking car, the wide body 996’s look great from all angles. One thing all generations share is the sheer fun of driving them.
Agree! My 2 favorite driving cars are 911 and R8
All basically BS
Likewise.
Thank you sir for making this video. Hopefully it has convinced many people to just not buy the "worst 911". To everyone who stumbles upon this video, yes the 996 is in fact a terrible car, that will look terrible, drive terrible and whose engine will explode right after you purchase it. Do not buy them.
The market has known these things long before my video but it was fun to make! Cheers Sam.
Horrible mod - love the original 996.
It’s grown on me. (Both the 996 and the Mod)
If you don’t like the headlights, why did you buy a 996? It’s a great car-embrace the fried eggs…they’re a descendant of Porsche racing heritage. This is a mod that screams wannabe!
Great drivers car.
What are you talking about? You are over opinionated and in my OPINION shouldn't be allowed to own one. 996s are great 911s...in Australia they are $70k and continue to up in value fried egg headlights or not! IMS bearing happened over 20 years ago - who hasn't repaired this issue by now. Interior was much better than the 993 just check it out Mr.
I’ll take your 993 and you can have my 996.
The 996 looks fine! As a 911S & 996 C4 owner remember beauty is in the eye of the beholder!
They are great cars. I personally like the round headlight but here I am, an owner of 2 996 lol.
Every time you said it was the worst 911 was like a dagger in my shriveled little 996.1 owner’s heart😭I don’t care what anyone says I love my runny egg car and it’s the only one I could afford so I have learned to love it, warts and all.
The affordability can’t be beat!
I did the same mod a few years back. But, I really started to like the "fried eggs" and removed them. It takes a while, bit the "fried eggs" grow on you! Maybe they were just ahead of their time?
Must have been a nice feeling when you took the covers off!
your human is hilarious I find it very funny and charming 😂
Looks far worse than before. I definitely am not in love with my .2 headlights, but do not care enough to do anything about it. This, this, is just crap and looks like you tried too hard to fix something that did not need attention. Cheers.
“Polish a turd” may be the phrase.
Anything you do to ‘improve’ the 996 headlights only makes it worse. They are fine from factory. Those headlight additions look horrible.
Can’t polish a turd!
BULLCRAP !!! NO ONE gives away the car cheaper "because of the headlights"
BTW - i LOVE them in stock look....
Its not about giving the car away cheaper. Its about the market value. The 996 has the lowest market value of all 911.
I kinda like the 996 headlights.
I’d love them on a turbo!
who ever said it looks good on the car, he lied to you. That looks hideous. 😂holy shit, i thought before it looked bad before but right now it looks 10 time worse.
Round headlights FTW
Agree the headlights are terrible, but the 996 has analogue technology, and that makes it the best modern 911. Also there a bargain
Definitely a bargain but I’d rather pay the premium for the 997! All opinions respected
the old 997 all models are far worse than 996 imo
997 has fewer issues than the 996.
I don‘t say this lightly: Time was kind towards the 996s optics and reputation. These covers on the other hand…
They existed for ages and even Porsche themselves offered headlight covers… they did not sell that many. Looks like a highlighting afterthought imho. Edit: The fit towards the bumpers ruin it
there is no good solution aside from an entire front end conversion. But that's just absurd.
GT1 headlights look fine on 996.1 and 986. The tragedy is the 996 turbo and 996.2 ones.
I would keep a 996 turbo as part of a 911 collection but would never own a 996 as my only Porsche. The circle lights are too iconic!
LOVE my fried eggs!!!
It’s all good brother!
Modifying a 911 immediately prior to sale when it's universally known that unmodified examples sell for the most money, regardless of generation. By any chance do you have an 'ugly' and modded GT3 to sell me too?
My cars are all salvage. All bets are off on value. Better to just enjoy these examples and never look back!
Wrong in so many ways, 996.2 , C4S Cab has the best looking ass of all the Porsche’s. IMS is a cheap easy fix, haven’t had a single problem, as far as the headlights..... loved them on the GT1, love them on my car....... in 10 years, Everyone is going to want one!
If there are any left on the road!
@@EdgasketGarage you will be amazed at what these headlights will bring
One rule I've learned in looking into buying a 911 is to keep it as original as possible. For the 996, there will be about as many who will like this as who will hate that it isn't in the original state. This objectively looks better to me than stock, though.
Excellent point. Factory is always best for resale. I never feel back about alterations to salvage title cars. They’re lucky to still be alive! 😂
I’ve had the pleasure of driving a 996 and it is great 10/10
There is no better driver car in the $20-25k range!
@@EdgasketGarage it’s £13-£30k for me but Yh
The 996 has aged beautifully, the basic 996 Carrera has an elegance and purity of the original early air cooled 911. Yes, the cars have their issues, and build quality is not the 996’s strong point, however it carries the 911 DNA and was the basis for all the later water cooled cars that followed. The simplicity of design of this era 911 and indeed the 986 Boxster (with which it shares the front end - and headlights) has come into its own now when compared to todays over exaggerated and complex variants, proving that in many ways, less is indeed more. And as for the 996’s (and 986’s) headlights, though controversial at the time, they have become one of its defining features, and now look better than ever. Anyone who can’t see past the 996’s headlights is missing a trick, and although the 997 is indeed a better built 911 and has many of the purists design features reinstated, drive and early 3.4 996 and 997.1 back to back, and tell me which is the purer and more driver focused car?! - It’s the 996.
Thank you for sharing. Nothing to debate. Well said. In the end it’s a drivers car
Nice work and video. Got on with it and dealt with the naysayers eloquently at the same time.
I had no idea what I was getting into when I made this video lol
Stock headlights looked much better
Sometimes I ALMOST feel that way.
@EdgasketGarage 💯 it's only other people's opinions that make us feel there wrong, they look great in reality
Horrible mod, looks chinese tuning for cheap Hyundai
the headlights or the covers?
that don't look good at all
ahg it was alright.
The headlights are fine as they are IMO. They just aren't round. So what?
They are less desirable than round.
Guys I dont think the creator of this video is a big fan of the 996..
Im eager for a Turbo S, though.
the fried egg headlights, i made my accords headlights light look like them
Accord GT1
The 996 is nowhere near as bad as your video quality. 3:02
Roasted!
Nah. The original lights look better. The gaps don't look great here at the end.
Don’t forget my 996 had front end damage lol
so much nonsense in one single video
Should have spread it over 2 videos perhaps.
@@EdgasketGarage😂
My very first 911 was a 1999 996 Cabrio in Arctic Silver with Red Leath. It will always have a special place in my heart.
Sharp car. I also had a 1999 as my first 911. Although mine had a cracked cylinder head.
The first gen headlights of the 996 are my favorite of all 911's. They were good enough for the GT1.
It works out for you then because they’re the cheapest 911 out there.
I was going to write how much I like my headlights on my '03 the way they are, but seems I'm late to that party. Aside from your crrazy dislike for a car youve owned two of, I like your video. Do more. Thanks!
Nothing drives like a 911
Ed, I am the original owner of a 1999 C2. When this car came out it was heralded by the automotive magazines as one of the best 911's ever made. It tracked faster, had a better coefficient of drag, wasn't spin crazy, had a real air conditioning and smoked corvettes. In fact it was so good that it sold more copies than any other 911 model in history. Nobody, and I mean nobody hated the headlights. There is understandable resentment that it shared the front end with the Boxster. But again, nobody hated the Boxster headlights either. That all being said, I've had mine for 25 years, it steel runs, pulls and handles great. Interior while plasticky has in held up very well. I think the switch from air cooled to water and sanitizing of the car over previous generations were the biggest complaints (understandably). If you are a real fan of Porsche's, the Boxster and 911 of the late 90's saved the auto company and for that we should be thankful.
We shall also tip our hat to the Cayenne for saving Porsche.
@@EdgasketGarageyou might tip the Macan as well, they sell boatloads of them.
Uhhhh. I definitely hated these headlights when it came out, and yes I was an adult in 1999 and a sports car fanatic. IMO, this was a massive step backwards from the 993 in terms of looks. I was OK with the switch to water, that made sense, but visually it was garbage, and eventually looked just like an ugly Boxster. When 2005 rolled around and they fixed the headlights, that was when I felt Porsche was truly back in the game. Just like when Jeep ditched those hideous square headlights.
Dude's not wrong. The 996, especially THAT 996, are the worst Porsche's ever made. As for smoking a corvette. Come on, dude. 4.6 vs 4.7 isn't exactly gapping anyone. Also, be careful with those industry rags. This was the era where new vehicles (PT cruiser, anyone?) were given car of the year because they were bought and paid for, and that's not even accounting for the tweaked testers that were built to perform for editors.
Glad you like(d) your car, though.
@@negotiatewithleverage4763 I actually like them more than the 993 headlights. I think those look bad. never liked how they tilted the original. But TBH, I still love the original upright circles the best.
Love the 996 - not a bad add on ! Top video
Fun car to drive for sure!
1997 air cooled 993, $100,000- $430,000. 1998 water cooled 996, $19,000. Throwing quality out the window, priceless.
money talks
In South Africa a 996 goes for $14000, sometimes a little less depending on the condition
Ruined the look of the 996. Keep the lights stock noob
The look was ruined long before I got ahold of it!
Those headlights are actually awesome. It’s the best looking generation of 911 for me.
Wow bold statement!
@@EdgasketGarage He is not alone Ed. 996 is a great looking car, and the GT1 headlights look great. I also prefer the interior to later model 911s including the 997.
Those headlights were good enough for the GT1!
and the turbo!
MASSIVE improvement....great info and great job on sharing an extremely helpful bit of info that really resolves the aesthetic issue of that front end. Calling the stock headlights "Iconic" is the coward's way of avoiding the reality that they're simply ugly...and actually...no, they're not "iconic" when every other model of the car is round headlights....the round headlight is what's "iconic" as the ugly lights are and will never be an "icon" representation of the company. The silhouette of the bathtub shape of a 911 is iconic....but again...the adolescents will try and ascribe "glory" to ugly by using a fancy term that is wrongly applied. That's this era of idiots....over and over....instead of growing up they choose to live in a fantasy since it's just always easier and the easy life is what this generation is all about....not character, no growth, not hard work, not ethics, not love, not helping others, not serving others...just taking the easy way and denying simple obvious things as simple as "yes....the headlights that are ugly are actually ugly".
Agree. Porsche round headlight = iconic.
Typically, only uptight 911 purists find them ugly. Every time I explain to a non-Porschetard why my car is hated by the purists they wonder how those people became so retarded as to think that a pair of bug eyes sticking out of the fenders are better than sleekly molded lights. I do acknowledge that the yellow is kinda ugly, fortunately mine are de-yolked.
@@DonziGT230 Grow up bud....your entire thread reeks of immature whining with your identity wrapped up in having a Porsche. No one cares sincerely, and it's never ever going to mean anything whether you have a Porsche or not, whether it's attractive, or not. ....and no, it's not purists that have taste....I happened to show my own father not long ago these headlight and it was a simple "no those are ugly". Why? Because they're not a sleek, sultry, artistic line...they are that shape without a reason...except...we actually DO know the reason....and it was simply that they already had them laying around, already designed, and so they got slapped onto that model just like Lamborghini uses the headlights from a Nissan 300Z except those actually look good.
I also agree that the current trajectory of society isn't exactly positive and that we are facing some serious problems but the shape of a 20 year old car's headlights and what some people say about them seems really low on that list...
@@d-phoenix2198 Do you mean like commenting on a stranger's opinion on a global platform called the internet might ALSO be pretty low on the "list" you mention, (when there is no list?) regarding sharing opinions in contrast to greater life issues? So exactly what is your point other than inane hypocrisy?
And bud...no matter how good or how bad life is or gets, people will always have opinions and personalities and express both....so may want to do some adapting.
And...it's not "what some people say about them"....the point made was about maturity, and how it's lacking....and the EVIDENCE of that and the frustration of THAT is people getting their identity associated with their car when a car has nothing to do with who a person is....what defines a person is their character.....not what design of what vehicle they chose to spend their money on. We all spend money, and we all have different abilities to be responsible or irresponsible in how that money is spent, also a function of maturity in many cases.
In South Africa a 996 goes for $14000, sometimes a little less depending on the condition... I'd buy one and do an offroad conversion... might look sick considering the latest porsche models have offroad 911 variants
2:45 TBH I don't think the headlights are the main issue. a 2008 cayman and a 2009 cayman have a $20,000 difference, that's because of a the IMS bearing issue, and that issue plagues these cars too. Some people have grown to really like the fried egg look, if it was truly the case then we could easily find 15k models with under 80k miles in the market. I've still seen 996's going for $25k 30k and even 35k for that much.
I probably agree they are the least pretty of all 911 headlights……but original still looks far better any aftermarket “solution”. Those things you fitted scream aftermarket Chinese tat.
Agree.
When pinky lai sees this video he’ll have a heart attack
He can take it up with the manufacturer lol
Great and fun video!
Former 996 owner here. I strongly believe that the ONLY reason people (and when I say "people" I really mean Porsche fanatics because regular people couldn't care less about the headlights) is because the Boxster used the same headlights. While I do prefer the looks of the round headlights, the 996 lights aren't bad. I guarantee, if the Boxster front end was different than the 996, very few people would complain about them.
Also, beside the head crack and the IMS, there is the RMS, bore score, AOS intermix, and a bunch of other issues with the M96 engine. Wonderful car but bad engine.
I agree MM
The 996 is nothing but a 986 with upset handling due to the engine having moved away from the perfect spot...
@@thefreedomguyuk-Wrong!
996 is descendant from 356 (after several 911 iterations), which was there since 1948!…
986 (Boxter) is descendant from 550 Spyder, RS 60, RS 61 and RSK, all them from the 50’s!…
In other words, 996 DNA is there "before" 986’s to tell his story!…
NGL To the people who say "own the fried egg look" and etc. I think it makes it look like a 993, which is completely fine. This is something that can always be taken off, so fak.
1999 didn't have the bearing and sleeve issue. One of the best engines made. Have you seen the interior on a 935 or 964? Vinyl over cardboard.
complaining about interior while previous models are equally as bare and simplistic
True maybe it is JUST the headlights lol
"This is the worst 911 ever made..."
You can't stress that enough can you? Lol!!
Weird, I don’t like your 996 either and I own one, I do like your garage thou.
A nice garage deserves a nice car
Hi, I see you that you installed the cover on the car, would it be easier to secure the cover on the headlight off the car? Just wondering. Great video, thanks.
These cars remind me of my childhood, and playing Need For Speed: Porsche Unleashed. I personally love the headlight design of the 996. I had no idea about the motor issues, although if I had enough money to buy one of these cars, I don't think that would sway my decision much.
There’s no bad 911!
How to ruin your Porsche in 6 minutes.
Just drive it the cylinder head will take care of the rest!
All this rot to sell a pair of headlight covers???? What super car doesnt have issues? Only 1 percent of very early 996s had engine failure. From seeing your 996 on here it looks fairly good for a near 25 year old car. Funny your plastic head light covers look worse!
The cracked head is a major issue too. Mine did seem like a strong car.
The 996 is the perfect 911 for engine swaps. Looking to get one to swap in the Audi 2.7t or a supercharged 4.2 V8.
911 LS swaps are played out. Glad you suggested something else!
Nice video but my gawd those look awful!
Hey that’s ok I appreciate the complement on the video!
@Ed Gasket Keep up the good work! Actually saw those on a blue 996 turbo today.🙄
The previous owner of my 996.1 Cabriolet had added these light covers to make the headlights look round.
I recently pulled them off, and, well, I think it looks better. I think the “fried eggs” have aged way better than anyone might have anticipated.
The engine? Well, I’ve recently crossed 165,000km and the engine is running great. But I am vigilant and as soon as I see anything developing, I’m going to weigh my options carefully.
Sounds like you really enjoy the car. Win!
0:05 that is correct, the 996 is hideous in comparison to other porsche variants that came before it and after...
Hmm if its such a bad car why is it increasing in value faster than other models?
It’s not a bad car but it is the worst of the 911 line. You can’t find any running/driving 911’s for 15-20 grand - (other than 996’s). It will be nice if the value does start to close the gap on the 997.
He admits 996 costs 1/2 the price of a traditional headlight model … I don’t look at the headlights when I drive which is the point of a 911..
I’ve driven mine for 8 years with no issues other than preventive replacements … I hate to fool with the headlights ..
If I bought another I wouldn't change the headlights.
Great video. Currently own 2 over at Johnny's car care and reviews. Mostly love with a little hate. I will be dropping in the black headlight replacements once I figure out if I will put them on the black or red 911
Good cars for sure
Idk about you guys but I don't care for the look of these headlight covers. I think they look kind of cheap (even if they may cost a lot). I think they would look a lot better if they were a replacement lens that was flush all across the surface instead of a polymer cover that rests on top of the headlight. I'm sure that would cost a ton considering they would be a mix of clear lens and the cover all molded into one piece and installation would entail disassembling the whole headlight housing BUT...
I think the upgrade in looks would outweigh the pain in the wallet.
Next time ill just go 997!
lol, those covers are hideous.
let me live
I have owned a 2003 996 C2 Cab for fourteen years and I love the mk2 headlights and I think it looks 100x better than your cover option. Just wait and see, in years to come people are going to want a 996 for the very same reason and 996s are actually going up in value not down.
I hope you’re right!