[Don Plumley]

Hi Brian,

They are fabulous cars. To answer #1, are you a DIY or will you hire a mechanic to work on the car? Will it be your only car - if so, how many miles per year will you drive. Probably better than your Audi, but it's not a Toyota.

#2: The single biggest problem with 96+ 993s (OBDII cars) is a SAI (Secondary Air Injection) clogging which won't allow the car to pass Smog. There are simple ways around this, and expensive ones too. Premature valve guide wear is another fault that affects a small percentage of engines. They tend to eat tires - but that's a fun problem. Stock shocks are bad, it would be ideal if the PO replaced them -- or you should.

Otherwise, you are simply looking at wear and tear associated with use and driving condition. Prolonged engine heat, such as stop and go driving in LA heat, is bad. The most important thing you can do is get a thorough PPI from a qualified independent shop. If you update your profile with where you live, you can get recommendations on local shops, or local to wherever the car might be.

#3: A well-cared for car. There are "bargains" and examples that have been poorly treated. These can be some of the most expensive cars. They tend to show up at 2nd tier dealers. I strongly recommend you buy one from an enthusiast. Suggest you check out the 993 forum on Rennlist as well, there have been a few wonderful cars available there with the proper mods.

Good luck - and keep asking questions here and on Rennlist.