Which Porsche?

eion · 04-20-2002, 10:57 AM

I'm finishing college in July and moving to California. Up until now, I haven't needed a car, so I'm looking at buying my first car. One thing is certain - it's going to be a Porsche 911 of some sort. Basically, I'm having trouble deciding which model to get. I have $28k to spend, but that's got to pay for insurance and other stuff I'll need, so I'm looking at an upper limit of $26.5k to $27k.

My thoughts so far:
89-91 964 - I think I'd rather have a C4, but I'm not sure. I *definitely* want a coupe - but: C2 or C4, manual or tip? Most of my driving experience has been in automatics, but I can drive a stick adequately. How does the tip drive compared to the manual? What sort of car am I likely to get for my money?
Mid-80s 930 - not sure about these - would they have been thrashed at this price? What are they like to drive?

My head tells me to buy a newer car, but my heart tells me I might really enjoy a 930. Other things to consider: like I say, I've mostly driven automatics. I'm 6'4" - I can fit fine in a 993 or a 996 (with the seat all the way back), but would I have problems with these earlier cars? How do the running costs compare?

And some other questions: private seller, or dealer? If I buy from a dealer, do I still need to get a PPI? And are there any other models I should look into?

Thanks.

Brian993 · Brian993's Garage

I definetly wont tell you what to buy or what I think you should buy. But I will tell you to take your time, consider your choices carefully! Do your homework, its easy to get burned on a porsche. The price range is so dramatic from 6k on up.

Its one thing to know you like 911's its another to know there weak spots. I personaly would spend less than everything, keep 15 to 20% in reserves for the car (be it upgrades or repairs). You will want to do one or have to do the other sooner or later. I wanted a 911 so bad I found a nice one rebuilt drive train, just needed a paint job. I bought it and own it for 11K.

Shortly after I bought a 00 boxster, love them both. Now I would trade the two of them for a 993. I havent been burned, price wise, but I wish I knew then what I know now. It would have been easier. SPEND ALOT OF TIME HERE AND LEARN. Enjoy your search!

masraum · 04-20-2002, 01:22 PM

I can only offer my opinion of what I would do. Get a 964 from a private owner with records and PPI. Don't get a C4 get a C2. I think these days you should be able to find a nice 964 in the low to mid 20's (that's what I hear anyway). The 964 should be an excellent car, if you can find one inexpensive enough you will have money left for upgrades, insurance, etc.... It will probably be nearly impossible to find, but one without a sunroof will give you more head room, and with a little work you can lower the seat(s) to give even more head room. Do lots of homework and don't rush into anything.

epbrown · 04-20-2002, 06:24 PM

I'm with Steve. Check out the recent 964-based issue of 911 and Porsche World for info on the strengths and weaknesses of that model. Spend a little less in order to have money for insurance, maintenance and upgrades. Take your time and find a nice one. I don't know from Tiptronics as far as driving, but they seem to have less re-sale value than the manuals, if that's a consideration.

Emanuel

makaio · 04-20-2002, 06:53 PM

I drove a 92' 964 Cab with a tiptronic tranny while I was in Hawaii. Fun car, but it reminded me of driving my Dodge Dakota too much. I just feel you should have to row the gears in a sports car. Plus automatic or tiptronic tranny's sap too much power. The 92' i drove seriously, didn't feel any faster than my SC.

Do your homework, get a PPI on any Porsche you buy, regardless if it's from a dealer or private party, and save some money for the unexpected and insurance. You didn't say how old you are, but a Porsche can be expensive for someone under 25 in California. 25-40% more than if you are 25 or older.

Bobboloo · Bobboloo's Garage

BigBpaintas' advice is well taken. Take at least 6 months if you can looking. I think you'll find the more you get into it the more you'll find where your passion is.

I've heard that some of the 89/90' C2/4's have issues with the sealing of the heads to the cylinder. Find out the serial numbers of the motors involved if you go to buy one of those years. If the motor is one of the ones in question then you need documention of the repair.

Bobby