6'6"... Am I better off in a 996?
 

Good afternoon!

Long time lurker here, have been entertaining the idea of finding my first P-car. I'm sure this has been discussed at length here but my biggest concern is whether i'd fit well enough in a 986S to justify the purchase. I'm prepared to run aftermarket seats (GT3 or SPG XL) if absolutely necessary but it would be nice to use factory seats (maybe with foamectomy?) so that my wife (5'6") could also drive the car from time to time.

I know that the 996 could work, but i'd prefer the smaller, nimbler 986 chassis if at all possible.

Would love to hear opinions!

Looking forward to hopefully joining the community!

You need to try it for yourself. Need to do more than a short test drive, and with the top up and the top down. The GT3 center console delete will give your right leg and knee a little more room. I am 6'3" on my best days and just fit headroom wise but have plenty of leg room. You should also see if manual or power seats are lower. I have manual seats and wouldn't mind if they went lower than the lowest setting they have. I think there are a few people your height on the forum with Boxsters who are happy with them. My boys are both almost 6'7" and find the Boxster too small.

I recently bought a 2003 Boxster and own a 1973 911.

I am 6' and the Boxster just does not have enough leg room for me. It is my wife's car so it is not a big deal.

BUT the 911 is way more roomy and the seat can to way further back.

6'6" is going to be tough for a 986. The seat will not move back far enough for you. IIRC, 6'4" is about the max for a 986. If you're wanting a Boxster, you will fit better in a 987.

If you go the 996 route, I have one for sale.
https://omaha.craigslist.org/cto/d/2001-porsche-911-convertible/6335199623.html

Also, if the 987 still tight, the 981's are even bigger inside
.

I'm about 6'3, 34" inseam, and I just barely fit. It is far from ideal, my head hits the rollbar, and seatback is more upright than I'd like.

I'm considering moving to a 997 in a year or two.

6'4” and 34 inseam and I fit in all Porsche’s listed below. The 996 definitely has more room. Your need to test fit/Drive some Porsche to see what works for you and getting aftermarket seat will definitely help but finding something that works for you and your wife is a challenge. Good luck!