[SD987]

There are plenty of steeply discounted 2005s out there and I would recommend a 987 base over the car you're looking at. If you take a look at the options you list, the car isn't quite as loaded as it would appear vs. a new 987 base that's not going to be more than a couple grand more, if that.

5speed vs. 6 speed - a matter of preference imho, you'll be well above the speed limit in third.

Serviced at dealer still has march 2008 warr - 987 has x number of months and 15k more.

PSM, OBC and cruise control - all standard on the 987

Delete Model Des - depends on your preference, may be a negative and obviously you can do this on your own.

18 sport classic wheels - IMHO these are a pretty uninspired rim design, not something I'd be jazzed about paying extra for.

Flaired rockers - OK, whatever...

Conveniemce + Package $5,255
bosesound windstop
Xenon
cd shelf
wheel colored caps
Heated seats $715

Preferred Package Plus in a 987 $3,690
Colored Wheel Caps
Self dim mirrors & rain sensor
Bose Sound system
Heated Seats
Floor mats
xenon

remote cd $715 player - I don't know about you, but in this day and age a CD changer is about as useful to me as an 8-track player.

Aluminum look interior
painted center con, ext color
Aulm/sport shifter/Brake handel

The 987 base interior is "aluminum look" as standard, although you can purchase extras to make it even more "aluminumish" if that's your thing. If your 2004 had the "wood look" or "carbon fibre" look, it would be more of an advantage.

Graph full leather $2,030 - Buying full leather interior on a convertible makes about as much sense to me as full leather patio furniture. But then again, what do I know, I've only owned four convertibles.

Should I be worried about RMS or engine failures? I understand this is a used car.

Principal cause of RMS has been addressed somewhat in the 987, but is an inherent flaw of the engine design. As far as engine failures, I'd think you're pretty safe with either car and I suspect there is some driver responsibility involved although victims swear otherwise.

Will the new body/ 05 & up kill value? No longer a question of will, it's a "has". Maybe you should ask someone whose tried to sell or trade in a 986 recently, but the 40 percent depreciation in your case should illustrate the point.

The 987 is a better engineered and better driving car...period. (flame away) If you drive both you'll clearly see this for yourself.

As far as looks go, the 986 has been around since 1997. How many 1997 car designs still look fresh to you? Consider the two side by side...and you'll have no problem telling them apart.