Would you do it again

[jsceash]

It would be easier the second time knowing what I know now. I've replaced 2 IMS bearings rebuilt an engine replaced clutch pressure plate flywheel all suspension parts wheel bearings CV joints, exhaust, headers, AOS, intakes, installed a radiator system. Come to think of it does anyone need an experienced Boxster Mechanic.

[peterbrown77]

Not in a million years....

If I had to do it again, I would dig deep and pick up the Guards Red 993 for $31K that was put before me. Air cooled, no IMS, bulletproof, and they're appreciating like mad.

[trimer]

Nope...done it twice. I like the 993 idea. Just missed out on one by 3k. Really love my 944 turbo S and I can actually see the motor!

[doragman]

I would do it again in a minute.

I've had a good car (99 986) with only minor issues in 62k miles compares to others here. I love the way it looks, and drives. If the IMS blows before I need a new clutch then I'll just get another one. I do wish I had not waited so long to buy my first Porsche.

[Perfectlap]

Originally Posted by peterbrown77

Not in a million years....

If I had to do it again, I would dig deep and pick up the Guards Red 993 for $31K that was put before me. Air cooled, no IMS, bulletproof, and they're appreciating like mad.

I'v had similar opportunities. My indy is a go-to go guy on finding old Carreras worth plunking money into. There's always at least five of them in the shop.

But choosing between a Boxster/Cayman or 996/997 and an air-cooled Porsche is a apples and oranges proposition.
For starters, you can't drive a 993, 964 or 911 like you can drive a Boxster/S.
You can't drive it with abandon. You're now fixating on the odometer as each new 10K miles is affecting the resale. You're not taking that air-cooled Carrera out on foul days if you're the typical owner. And a Boxster will take as many DE's and AX's as you can throw it at without nearly the long-term engine expense of an air-cooled Porsche. One properly rebuilt water-cooled Porsche engine, especially a GT3, will outlast the needs of just about any Porsche owner while providing more power at lower cost. It may not be romantic like an air-cooled, but I like to hold onto my money, keep my garage floor clear of a new oil spot and I like to drive my expensive toys as much as I want.

I guess some people experience this need to mitigate the expense of a non-investment purchase (like a sports car) with the comforting feeling that their garage queen is acting as sort of savings account with wheels. But in my book it's either an investment or its not. Most air-cooled Porsches will not recoupe their original sticker prices, certainly not when you add in long-term expenses. So they're still used cars. But don't get me wrong if I had a hangar full of cars I never needed to drive, it would be full of 911's and 964's. Once their numbers dwindle further, enthusiasts all over the world will pay top dollar for this nostalgia.

But if you're asking me which Porsche I can drive hard while I own it, that's another matter. Antiques vs. work horses.