Whoa this thread got off track. Bottom line is this. Drive some bases and drive some S's. Figure out what you prefer and go from there. It's just not worth it to change from a base to an S or from an automatic to a manual. So pick the model and transmission type you like and buy that.
As for maintenance costs they will vary. The better shape the car is, the less it will most likely cost you short term. Some years my car costs me only oil changes and whatever mods I decide to do. Other years it costs me much much more. Clutches are not cheap if you can't do them yourself. Tires are not exactly cheap. New glass window tops aren't cheap. I could probably use all new suspension again not cheap. The more you can do yourself the less money it will cost as long as you do it right.
I have probably spent more money on my car over the course of my ownership on mods and improvements that were not necessary to keep it drivable. On the other hand sometimes you have to spend some cash to keep it going. Remember these cars are at least 15 years plus at this point. Things wear out.
So in summary buy the best model you like at a price you can afford. Have some extra money set aside for unexpected repairs and or mods. Drive hard and be happy
1998 Porsche 986
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