Engine damage 996 < 2000

Hello forum, on my 50th birthday I want to buy a used 996. Since I have another year, I already inform myself about this car on various websites. Unfortunately I have to read very often, that in the series 996 an ATM is installed. Is the engine really so vulnerable or Porsche so kulant ??? Also here in the forum the machines are called the wear part before 2000 – what should I think of it ??? Is the 993 from the machine more mature ?? I hope that I hear in this forum an honest opinion on this topic. I would be pleased about tips and suggestions or links. Best regards Lothar