[Richard930]

As with almost everything nowadays, there is a big difference in pricing between Canada and the US. When we had a 70 cent dollar the case for importing a US car was questionable, but now that it's at par its a no brainer for those willing to give it a go.

The US got about 500 930s a year, Canada averaged about 50 per year so there are generally very few 930s available on the Canadian market. This is reflected in the pricing which is quite inconsistent with US pricing. Add to that the effect of the recession which has been far more devastating in the US (therefore limiting the demand side), and it means great deals are available in the US.

If you're prepared to shop south of the border you can probably find more cars that meet your requirements - if you have the patience and $$s to travel to check cars out, and you will likely find something at a lower price. Remember though that US cars had US emissions, and therefore have less power than our ROW engines (260 hp and then 282 compared to our 300hp).

$39k for a low mileage '87 in Canada sounds pretty good to me if the PPI checks out. I'd actually be a little concerned that it hasn't been driven enough, but then again mine is closing in on 260,000km and its only 5 years older. For some data points, there are a couple of 930s available near Toronto including a 'museum quality' 89 930 with 43,500 kms for $60k, and a slightly modded 86 with 135,000 kms for $45k (no affiliation).

These cars are incredibly robust but you should probably budget about $1,500 - $2000 per year for maintenance. Some years you may only have an oil and brake fluid changes, but if you actually drive it the tires and brakes, and 20,000km services will bring the average up. If you do your own servicing it can be a relatively inexpensive car to drive by supercar standards.

If the PPI is good I wouldn't be too concerned about a major meltdown shortly after buying it, but you also need to go into 930 ownership mentally prepared for a potentially major expense at some point, just in case!