1997 Boxster from private seller or 1999 Boxster from a dealership?

[Snowman]

I'm with Chris on this one. PPI is the only way to go really. I don't know the laws in your state, but here in Texas a dealer is required by law to tell you if a car has ever been in an accident. It's part of the paperwork during a purchase. That helps as far as purchasing from a dealer ( at least as far as hidden frame damage is concerned), but the inspection would still be the best overall, in either case.

*edit*

That private seller is right at blue book for a good condition 97 with 43,000 miles.

[recycledsixtie]

All of the above makes sense. PPI is a must to check for problems and accident/repair history. Ask to see receipts for work done - more likely available with a private seller. It is possible to get them from dealer(but they may come back with privacy issues-no harm in asking). If there are deficiencies on the PPI, use that as a way to bargain a better price. The $$$ you save you can put away for the future repair fund. Don't limit yourself to 2 cars. Take your time.
My 2001 Boxster base I bought a year ago had 34K miles on it. I budget $1-2k a year for maintenance. Good luck and enjoy.I prefer dealing with a private seller.