While, all 3 of those cars are on the "Worst Cars To Buy" list, Out of experience by running a very large Auto Parts Store throughout the country, I get to see whats what.... And I would say the Porsche hands down. I'm not saying this in any sort of Biased opinion. My 986.2S is one of the slowest cars I've ever owned, Hell my last car once upon a time put down 426WHP, 4WD and did 21mpg, while the Boxster is 280ish HP, RWD (Still good) and gets on average 15mpg. Rotaries are junk, always have been.... There are a handfull of people who will argue up and down what a great engine it is, but its more unreliable than a DSM (World Record Holder for fastest 4cylinder but also well known for being extremely unreliable).... And well.... Besides an LSx Engine, Most GM's are Service Queens. They love being repaired. The Sky/Sol is claimed one of GM's biggest flops.... So unless you plan to LSx swap that car, its not worth it.
Now thats not to say that the Box is perfect, it is not. It is low power, horrible gas mileage, and if you don't know how to work on cars, carries the repair bill of any exotic car. Some people spend thousands of dollars on stuff that should only cost a couple hundred. Parts aren't too costly if you know how to shop.... and this means, stay the hell away from the dealership. If you don't know how to wrench on cars, find a reputable Porsche guy near by. The Stealership will make you give up your children for repairs. The 986/996 was labeled the worst generation of Porsche due to the IMS Failure issue. While if you research it, the failure rate is very small. But 99% of people still swear to change it as soon as possible, I did mine at 80k, And the OEM one looked fine. While I was in there I did RMS, AOS, Clutch, New Axle Boots, Starter, Alternator.... Basically all things that could fail soon that I felt should be changed. I've also done coil packs, and spark plugs..... All easy on this car. Oil changes are super easy, and can be cheap if you know how to shop, I know Walmart sells 5qt jugs of Mobile 1 Synthetic for 22ea.... So that makes the 10qt oil change easier on the wallet.
All in all, I love my car. It attracts lots of eyes and attention. Its not fast but it is fun to drive.
So I say, Go with the Porsche. After having it inspected ofcourse.
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-Josh
2001 Porsche 986 Boxster RS2.7 Bi-Turbo
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