What To Stay Away From

[z12358]

Hey thenewguy (how long before the sig name needs a change? )

I agree with David's suggestions -- wait to get back home before buying the Box. Buy the best (newest, best shape) Box within your budget. When budgeting, plan for the mods that you want to make, though I'm not a big fan of them myself -- just like the clean Box shape as it is. Also, plan for maintenance and repair expenses, so leave a chunky cushion of cash somewhere. If that means getting a loan for part of the purchase price then so be it, or just get an older Box for less. My point is, don't spend all of the cash on the outright purchase. Cash (liquidity) is king for many other things in life, too. That said, I am a bit concerned that $20k cash stash may not be large enough to handle all of the above (including the car itself).

Most important, while you're there focus on getting back healthy and alive. You don't need ebay hassles and drama there -- just dream of how nice the Box is going to be. You'll also enjoy the purchase process more when you're here to see and test the cars for yourself.

All the best,
Z.

[RandallNeighbour]

Good rule of thumb: The cheapest Porsche will always be the most expensive to own. Buy a newish one, buy an S, and be patient to find a garage queen with an owner who really loved the car and cared for it. I bought the opposite off eBay and it's been a friggin' money pit. Word up.

The links below might help you....

[thenewguy]

Thanks!!! I appreciate all the help you guys gave me. I have a little while before i decide to purchase it. Hmmm the name change?? Semper Porsche sounds good!! (Once i buy one!!) I deffinitely will be looking around locally even though it will be difficult when i get back. In North Carolina pickup trucks are alot more popular than a Porsche, I guess you cant take a Porsche muddin . Im gonna stay away from the 98-99 unless they've already had an engine replaced. Do they replace it with the same engine that is prone to this problem or an updated one, when it is fixed at the dealer?

[David N.]

If they replaced the engine then it's fine. The issue was a manufacturing defect, not a design flaw. And it didn't become an issue for all boxsters, but enough to simply avoid them and go for something newer.

And if you can afford an 'S', go for it. It's so worth the extra few grand for the bigger engine and better everything (brakes, suspension, dash, go-power). Remember, save money and you regret it every day. Get the best and you only regret it once...

-David