Best Box for me: 986 or 987?

[CRCGuy]

I'm pretty new here. Just test drove a MY09 (PDK and manual). Brilliant car, but....

.....I'm now thinking that that $1000+/mo for a car is rediculous--the new 987s are insanely expensive. I'm only 35. I can spend such a wad when closer to retirement.

I've had a Miata (NB), then MY08 S2000, now ready for a Boxster.

Needs: Fun to drive, acceleration not as important as cornering, need a clutch that isn't heavy due to bad back (Clutch in the MY09 I drove was light as a reference), can't work on car myself (back issue again), this will be my DD.

Price: willing to shell out ~$25-27k--This puts me in late 986 and possible early 987 regime (higher mileage).

Is there any reason NOT to buy the newest one I can afford? i.e. does anyone see any advantages to buying say a late 986 vs early 987?

I'm aware of the potential IMS issues. But just wondering if anyone has driven/owned both and found the older model better in any respects.

Any advice greatly appreciated. I'm dying to join the club!!

CRCGuy