Getting Started

[The Radium King]

go 's'. if nothing else, I would expect it to be more reliable (more brakes, more water cooling, more oil cooling, stronger internals).

maintenance budget depends on how much you can do yourself - off to the mechanic for every sneeze, or search out the issue on forums like these, source good used parts online, and put them in yourself.

mileage isn't an issue so much as year of purchase. some might actually say higher mileage is better, as the car will have been run past the standard ims failure point with no ill affects or failure addressed. do some research on this forum to find the 'good' years for this car with respect to dual vs single row ims (2001 to 2005 have the highest failure rates; 2000 and earlier and the 987 series have stronger bearings).

can't speak to auto trannys but the 6-speed (which comes in the 's' model) is a strong unit. the 5-speed is weaker, but is paired to the weaker engines so should be ok.

can't say about glass windows - i'm a 'get the car as light as possible guy' and live with the plastic.

me, i say get an early 2000 S; first year of the S, they made lots of them, there are lots for sale around your price point, and the early ones have the good ims.

[rfuerst911sc]

The standard rule of thumb with Porsche's is purchase the best/cleanest you can find/afford. And I would NEVER purchase a Porsche or any high end car without a PPI being performed by someone that knows the car make/model you are looking at. I've had the pleasure of owning four Porsche's and I'm getting my fifth in February. I followed my own advice on all except one..........it bit me in the butt Make the purchase decision with your head/facts not just pure emotion Plenty of good ones out there you don't have to buy the first one. Good luck in your search.

[want986tn]

Looked at my first 986 Saturday. At a private dealership who specializes in European cars. The 2001 had 50k on the clock a few minor dings and chips in the paint, interior was ok condition with the exception of a lever on the side of the driver's seat that did not seem to function properly well did not function at all. Not really sure what is did. There was a odd noise when I started which the owner said was a starter that he would replace prior to purchase. He said they serviced the car with oil and plugs at the shop. He told me that they did service Porsche and that he would clean radiator, put in cooler thermostat and replace IMS for around $1500. He seemed to know his stuff. I guess the big thing holding me back is not wanting to buy the first one I come across. he has it listed at $12900 but I think I may be able to bid him down a bit. I am still pretty sure that I would get an independent PPI.

Any thoughts?