Should I Buy This Car -- Opinions Please!

[996tt2002]

rick3000, love your confidence in the machine. Have been a PCA member since

1988, like to think I have looked around a bit on the Boxster engine failure prob-

lem. This is why I came to this forum of dedicated Boxster owners for input and

maybe the final deciding factor in my decision.

Have gotten all fired up to change the exhaust,wheels,sways,shocks etc. and

this one final area is holding me back.

Car was delivered in Nov/Dec of 1997 so I better look at the sticker in the door

jamb!

Thanks for the input, every bit helps.


Rob C.

[tnoice]

Nothing is better than knowing the complete history of the vehicle. Especially if you know that it has been taken care of and services have been performed on time, I would not even hesitate to purchase the vehicle. The internet can be a very pessimistic place.

[davemon]

It is a great car. If you're remotely interested, buy it and keep it in the family. Sounds like you are committed to keeping it clean and in great condition, so you won't lose any money by keeping it around for a year or so, if you lament the decision then, you can sell it again without any financial loss.

[fatmike]

Buy it if you want it. Just keep in mind its a normal 12+ year old car with all of the issues associated with age.


Has the oil been changed every year? With mileage that low -- I'd be concerned if the oil wasn't changed annually (without regard to actual miles driven).


How old are the tires? How about the other fluids and filters (brake fluid must be changed every couple of years).

[996tt2002]

Thanks for all the confidence. The exterior and interior are as new, my son and I

have taken care of that since new. Always used Zaino but have recently switched

to Collinite. Tires were replaced this time last year. Top has been treated with

Porsche waterproofing spray annually. Rear window done with Plexus and looks

very clear. No stone chips in front and my son now works part time at a local shop

that does clear bra film!

One issue is the foam from the AC/heat mixing door, the foam is coming through

the vents. I think we can fix this as I have found a DIY fix on the internet and it

looks like something we can handle.

For peace of mind I may take it to the local Porsche dealer(Reeves) and have it

looked over for good measure! There may be something that none of us are

aware of.

The Tip is not what I would really like but everything else outweighs that feature.

Was just looking at hardtops on Ebay!!!


Oil has always been Mobil 1.

[23109VC]

buying a car from a relative can be a win/win or a problem. you need to talk to them ahead of time and agree that there are no hard feelings if you buy it and the next day the motor blows up.... you need to at least talk about it..

when you buy from a stranger, you buy it and that's it.. but when you buy a car from family - some people can wind up with bad blood over $$ issues or repair problems. as long as this is all worked out and discussed in advance it can be a great deal.

i shoudl know, I bought my boxster from my dad. i knew the history, which was good..and he wanted to unload it. we worked out a fair price, and it was a true win win. i still let him borrow it from time to time... everyone is happy.

that being said - you may want to test driv eother ones. there are "S" models with more power, better brakes..newer ones with glass windows, etc etc..

if you are getting a great "family" deal..it might be the best buy out there. if she is selling it to you for "full retail"... you would likely be better off finding the "perfect" boxster - that is exactly what you want, and just ge ta really good PPI done to ensure nothing is wrong with it.


good luck.

the boxster is a blast to drive. whatever one you get - as long as you get a good one - you'll be VERY happy.

nothign is quite like a great drive in teh box on a nice day with the top down.

[996tt2002]

Haven't talked price yet. Have gotten three cars from them in the past. A 300ZX

and my present two vehicles, Lexus GS400 and Nissan pickup.

Know that there are newer, faster cars out there but for the time being this

could be a good choice.