Better suggestions for DD than a 996 TT Tip?
 

I realize I'm asking a biased group, but ...

I bought an 06 S65 to fit two car seats in the back. Now I have three kids so that won't work, and the wife has a three row SUV and a Minivan. So, I'm free to downsize. I'm looking at a 996 TT Tiptronic as a replacement, but figured I'd ping you all to see what you suggest.

Seems like a very low mileage 996 TT goes for about 50k. I'd be looking in this range.

I drive 15k miles per year, a lot of stop and go, and my 930 will fill the bill if I feel the need to "stir the pot", so an auto trans is a requirement.

I'd like little back seats, but would consider two seaters.

I've thought of Aston Vanquish, but dismissed for reliability and maintenance cost reasons. V12 Vantage is out of the price range. Don't really want to do the newish Vette thing.

Suggestion anyone?

how about a cayman? earlier models can be had quite cheap. i have seen a few on this board advertised at $25k and below. can't beat that with a stick!

conversely my dd is a 13 bmw 535ix and i love it. super smooth ride, tons of creature comforts and still well over 300hp from the twin turbo. it's is quite fast for a sedan and still has plenty of room inside. i also avg about 27-28mpg.

A Cayman certainly should be on your short list as it is probably the best car that Porsche is currently building (according to a well respected local Porsche shop owner). The IMS bearing issue and water pump concerns can be addressed, and the idea of a working AC system would be nice in Chicago traffic.

996TT is the best bang for the buck Porsche at this time, no contest. It does not have ANY technical gremlins common to the M96 equipped 996's and offers huge potential if one would decide to get more power.
Only downside is that it does not have such a cool look as realy 911's...

I agree to a point, but put GT2 wing and wheels on it, and it will be unbelievably beautiful looking IMO.

Good suggestions. I think I've concluded that nothing can beat the 996 turbo Tiptronic for a daily driver for me, with the 930 for when I feel young.. I'm looking for a low mileage example now. Any leads? I'm fond of grey, seal grey, blue, yellow, or any crazy color.

Anyone want to buy a 2006 AMG S 65 with 72000 miles?

I have a Nissan Murano as a daily driver. When I feel like a more fun daily, I'll drive my 996 turbo Tip. The Tip is great for traffic and is quick when you beat on it. You really have to drive it like you stole it to get the most of the Tip S programming. For a special drive, I'll take out the 930. The 996 is also more S.O. friendly.

Funny, my SOreally likes the 930. It actually turns her on. I also recently had the AC upgraded so she doesn't get cranky when it is still hot out heading out for date night.

Given how little free time I have, and how much time I spend commuting, a fun DD is one of the ways I keep my sanity. Hence the S65, soon to be 996 TT.

a three pedal car is much better as a DD. Leave the auto/PDK cars for the track...

Did you mean the opposite?

I drive the 930 to work sometimes. When it is stop and go for 45 minutes, the stick is just a PITA. Now, when I'm on the road early enough to be sure to beat traffic, it is a joy.

This car got my attention the other day…
2003 Aston Martin DB7 GT | Antique Auto Sales, Classic Cars, Exotic Automobiles | The Classic Car Gallery | Southport, CT

996TT is reliable car. Turbo engine does not have IMS bearing issues. Tiptronic trany is very reliable. I love everything about that car except the ugly looking dash/center counsel. 2001 does not have a glove box so lack of storage. Make sure the spoiler works. It can get pricey to fix it. Get the Bose option and stay away from factory navigation.

That does look nice. It is a 6 speed though, and I'm looking for an auto.
Unfortunately, the auto transmission in the Vanquish is quite troublesome, and I bet these cars, if they come in auto, are equally troublesome.

Understood.
A DB7GT in an automatic would be a sacrilege, but these days, anything goes.