996's are severely overlooked in today's marketplace. Yeah, sure they have cheap interiors. They're not as sexy as the earlier 993 or the later 997. But in the right color, and with the right wheels, they're still a good looking car. And they drive great. Like a 'proper' 911 if you will. They have that delicate balance and noticeable weight transfer that is absent in 991 cars. Also, the IMS issue is way overblown. Relative to how many were built, there is a very small number of cars affected.
I'd have no qualms owning a 996. I don't even think I'd say it'd be measurably more expensive to own than an N54 335. I say go for it. Maybe consider a coupe or Targa, though.
