We have done nothing but normal maintenance in the few years we have owned our '95 993, that is after an engine re-build when we first bought it. It has been rather inexpensive to own, after the re-build but we knew the engine was coming apart when we bought it.

I would look at 964 C4s (I wanted one rather badly) as they are supposed to be able to run well on snowy roads. Other than that buy the best one you find and keep $3K CAN in the bank for repairs because you just never know.

ALWAYS have a PPI done, check on the board for who to use in what areas. If possible, get with a local to look at the car before the PPI just so you don't throw money around. I would suggest using a shop other than the one who has done all the maintenance.

If I were you I would learn how to pull normal maintenance. Changing oil, minor things can really improve your sense of ownership and lower your cost of operations significantly.

And as for a reference, my in-laws Dodge Truck and Toyota Camry have left them stranded more times than either of our Porsches have broken down, and our cars have more miles on them.

Perhaps this is heresey on a 911 board, but for a first Porsche that needs to be a daily driver in the 15 to 20k range, I'd suggest you consider a Boxster S. A little searching and you should find a nice driver that will run with most air cooled cars and have modern reliability. Once "Porsche" is in your blood, an older 911 will find its way into your life when a weekend/track car fits your budget. YMMV

HERESY INDEED!!!!! SmileWavySmileWavy:D






But all kidding aside, how much mechanical work would you expect to pull on your own? What is the current cash outlay you have to make? Keeping $3K CDN in the bank for what if? and the heretic is right, Boxters can be fun mid-engined cars. Now I'm heading into heresy, must go kiss the SC!!!!!

Didn't say I'd buy one.....I've loved my 84 since I bought it in 89. Well over 200k miles, and dozens of track days later, I'm still keeping it till I can afford a GT3. Just trying to give the OP another possibility to consider. Long live torsion bars!!!!!

I have owned 911s for over 20 years and love the cars, but recently did get a boxster for my girlfriend and am very impressed with the car....great performance, looks and handling and very practical as a driver...prices are quite reasonable right now as well....i look forward to driving the car whenever I can ...I would recommend driving one so that you can compare before you decide which car would suit you best....

This might sound heretical but what about a 968?