Why is the 996 so hated, I don't think it looks bad at all

>Oh my god they added a bit to the headlights! Just unacceptable I don't want to buy it!

Porsche extremists are fucking retards and are worse than boomers (although they sometimes are too) with their "rare color" or "rare options!"

There was also the IMS bearing issue that put a bad taste in people's mouths over the whole 996 line.
Personally I'd buy a 996 if I had the money. Porsche owners always have authorized mechanics do maintenance when they're supposed to, and if the car hasn't broken by now it's not going to.