[Seahawk]

Sonic,

I bought a car long distance and it worked out well. The car I eventually bought was the sixth car I "looked at" long distance.
What worked for me:

- Narrow your choice. I wanted a 964 Targa in the best condition I could find. That really helped me ask the right questions, both here and on Rennlist. The sheer amount of different Porsche's available make it hard to do the proper amount of homework, IMHO, without bounding the make, model and series you really want. Knowledge is indeed power.

- PPI. Regional PCA contacts or local Pelicans (in my case I called the local PCA's) can help with finding the right, impartial PPI. I looked at two dealer cars, both allowed me to take the car to a local shop for an independant look. I discounted one after the PPI and travelled to look at the other. See below. I did not buy the car.

- Digital pics. The more, the better.

- If the PPI checks out, have the dealer/owner copy and fax service records. I paid for the copies and the fax. It helped me understand the maintenance the vehicle actually received, especially the all important milage based maintanance. I discounted a car because the owner declined to give me the copies. Hey, if I'm flying two thousand miles to look at a car, the owner can take an hour to give me the details post PPI.

- Carfax. This service elimanated two cars off the bat.

- Manage YOUR expectations. I almost bought the wrong car. PPI was indifferent, but I almost got caught up in the, "I've come this far, paid for the trip and the PPI, I think I can make this workitis". The very next car I looked at, about 500 miles away, was the one I bought...and worth every additional effort and cost. The drive home remains a cherished memory.

Enjoy the search...I met some great folks and had a lot of fun. I am sure others will have better suggestions: listen to them, there are some really well intentioned folks on this board.
All the best.