[fast_e_man]

MisterB,

I just bought a 96 993 with 80k mi --- for $22k. I posted "my new 993" in the later half of January. I wanted the VR (torque & HP), and I'm not at all concerned about the SAI issue. There are several threads here and on Rennlist that detail the DIY for replacing the SAI check valve and flushing the SAI ports. My wrench said he quotes about $1200 for the SAI flush procedure. With a little planning I figure this to be a weekend project when (not if) the time comes. I know removing the old SAI check valve will be a PITA & I need to fab a special tool. I figure all the 911 generations have their own particular issue(s), so it just comes with the territory. If mine does not throw the SAI/CEL code I will do this when I do a clutch job.

For OBD1 versus 2, I figure that's a non-issue. There is a company that sells a laptop driven OBD diagnostic tool for about $250 that allows you to read & reset the fault codes. Do a search for OBD diagnostics. I get the impression it will actually be easier than diagnosing 3.2L issues (my uneducated opinion). I'm kind of looking forward to hooking my laptop up to the 993!

For me, I wanted a car that checked out with solid engine mechanicals (minor oil leaks, good leakdown & good oil consumption), no history of body damage & maybe needed a little maintenence & cosmetic TLC. A PPI is mandarory to make an informed purchase. I have a full round of DIY maintenence planned this spring & need to spruce up the interior some. I was willing to trade some time investment from myself for a favorable price. I think I got lucky on the price, after looking for 2+ months.

So it all depends what you want in a car for condition versus price, and if you enjoy DIY versus taking the car to your wrench. If I needed to rely on my mechanic for most everything I'd probably pay the premium for a 993 with outstanding maintanence records (from my recent search --- guessing 50-60k mi at $30k +/-).

The Pelican cars for sale board is good for reference. I also looked at a lot of craigslist sites in major & minor cities. I had some good leads off craigslist. For me, AutoTrader was huge in assessing the market for used 993s. Set up a saved search on Autotrader for 993s (you pick the criteria) with email notification of new listings. Then log in at least 3-4 times per week to see what's comes on the market & save cars of interest. You can also see at what price point the cars are selling (based on how quickly they are de-listed). Make plenty of inquiries for the cars for sale & be ready to move when a car appears that matches your criteria. My car came from an Autotrader listing 1650 miles from home. I had a deposit on it within hours of its listing (contingent on passing the PPI).

Best of luck, be patient, and enjoy your search. This is just the beginning of the journey!!

Ed