I am gently looking at either a used 911 or

[recycled sixtie]

or a used Cayman. I am new to this section but am familiar with the 986 as I have a 2001 Boxster base. How will running costs compare with my Boxster to a say 2001 911 Careera 4. I am aware of the ims issue but what I look for in this year and model? Issues?

I know I would get hosed on my Boxster as a trade in at the local Porsche dealer so I am in no hurry to sell but would wait till next spring if necessary. Would really appreciate any info and input you have. I drove a 99 911 before I bought the Boxster but was not blown away. Is the 2001 Carrera any better than the 99 911 in the way it drives? Power difference?

[NYNick]

I guess I'll say it since no one else has yet.

This is the 'air cooled' section of Pelican. While we'd love to have you, you're looking at water cooled 996's and Cayman's. They have Forums all to themselves, and those guys over there are better suited to help you out!

If you come to your senses(LOL!), come on back!

Nick

[tonythetarga]

Engine/hp wise , the 99-01 are exactly the same 3.4 engines. They went to 3.6 in 2002 and have a bit more HP. The c4 of course, is an awd car so it is heavier and depends how you plan to use the car. If it is a DD, then by all means buy your best deal. If you plan to take it to the track, then the c4 will need some suspension work to make it understeer less.
I think you are better off with a Cayman anyway. They have the 3.4 and awesome handling right out of the box. The 06-08 Cayman has an IMS that cannot be removed without taking the engine apart and the '09's have had their engines redesigned to eliminate the problem altogether.
Budget generally rules, so do a bit more research. Good to check in the 996 and Boxster forums as well as Rennlist.com and their forums.
Welcome to Pelican. Take your time, find the right car and have fun!

[Flieger]

I would say either stick with your boxster and get an SC for the true 911 experience or else get the cayman. The mid-engined water heaters are better drivers cars than the new 911s (gt3 excepted). You might be able to swing a first gen 996 gt3, as a third option.