Great post/read/thread. I love the car, but yeah, the disposable engine is the downfall of the 986. You have to know this going in or you may be terribly disappointed. I honestly do not know what I would do if my car suffered one of the many failures that Jake points out. It is not the most luxiourous car but it is the most fun IMO. It never fails to put a huge grin on my face, even when it is just sitting in the garage.
Engine options abound and then of course there is the option of just getting another 986 or move on to something else. If it came down to fixing or another 986, I would lean towards one of Jake's engines. Reason being, I love the way my 986 is right now and putting a used engine is too big of an unknown for me. Yes, Jake's engines cost more but I believe it would outlast what ever used engine I would put in there. But, everyone has different situations, wants and realities. That's why I agree there is a place for everyone in the aftermarket. The 986 is still a fantastic vehicle for the money IMO. It has outstanding performance and classic lines. Still a winner in my book.