[agfours]

964 would be a great DD if you like the vintage feel with modern conveniences.

+1 on later model ('92-94). Early models had an issue with the cylinders sealing to the heads properly. Also watch for, maintain the dual distributor belt so you don't melt a hole in a piston dome. (Pete Zimmerman's book addresses this).

Have driven an 85 (with 915 like the SC) daily for 2 years, as well as a 96 993 C4S and an 87 coupe (G50) and can tell you that I keep coming back to the 87-89 for the fun factor. The 993 was a great modern feeling car but there were just too many modernizing things that took away from the visceral fun of the earlier cars. Drive one and judge for yourself though. The power is addictive and a suspension is much better in the city as the trade off. I'm guessing that the 915 was in need of bushing maintenance and probably contributed to your in town frustrations. At minimum would recommend the G50 cars in town.

Stinky? The smells are as unique as the year model changes, but one of my favorite sensory inputs. I like the earlier stink of oil and leather. The 964 will still have a bit of that if you are running the heat. 993s have a bit of a plasticky smell, but doesn't transfer to clothing like the earlier cars oily effervescence.

If you are in a suit, you will need good AC...964 or newer.

No question, the 993 is the best air cooled DD, and might be worth springing for the extra $5-8k. Look for a 95 model prior to ODBCII computers to keep the CEL from causing you inspection sticker headaches due to SAI clogging issues. Note that if you are willing to consider a tiptronic you will have the perfect traffic car, and can get it on the cheap, as these are not sold with the premium of the manual and are in 964 territory on price.