[G450X]

a few years ago with 160k miles on it. I looked at probably 20 cars, lots of crap out there in the $10k range. I wanted a cosmetically nice car, and this one had a nice repaint (reportedly Glasurit) - zinc with a black interior which looked very nice. The paint still looks great 2 years later. The interior was worn, but presentable. The mechanics were decent, a few drips and some blow-by on de-acceleration, but no major issues yet. The clutch was good, and the 915 shifts good but whines in 4th gear. The suspension is worn out, but I plan on a full rebuild with ER OEM type rubber and new Bilstein HD struts/shocks. Everything "mostly" works - the sunroof is slow, and the cruise control kinda has a mind of it's own....

That is what I consider a good example of a $10k SC, normal for a 30 year old car with 160+k miles.

I added SSI's & and M&K 2 in 1 out, and a Rennshift and I have H4's to instal (and of course a bunch of small things). It's been great fun to drive and has never left me stranded. I have some kind of ignition switch problem that I'll need to address soon (sometimes will just click, no start). I also have a mint e-46 M3 (purchased new, 30k miles) which I love, but there's a rawness to the old air-cooled 911's that is addictive in a strange way. The SC and M3 see almost identical road time.

Sorry to be long winded, but you sound like me two years ago. Be sure you like the color, you don't have to love it - just not hate it! You will probably enjoy driving it so much that it won't matter. Be prepared to "tinker" with little things, and if you are not mechanically inclined I'd learn or be prepared to spend more $$ on upkeep.

Many people stress a PPI, which is fine (and money well spent), but don't forget the cosmetics as well - which can add up quick. Dents/dings, decent paint, interior work, etc., is not cheap.

It's a buyers market out there, this car (like everybody has commented on this thread) sounds a little rough which will only mean $$ down the road. Engine rebuilds are no joke with these cars, budget $8k to $10k at least. I'm trying to collect parts now for a rebuild to defray some of these costs down the road.

I'd suggest maybe trying to seek out a $14k to $16k SC (or Carrera) that either has lower miles and is mechanically sound, or a higher mile one with documented engine/transmission work. I would pay extra and consider a rough example only if it was a color I was nuts over (arrow blue, slate grey non-metallic, etc). I'm dreading the monetary layout of my pending engine build which will instantly put me upside down if I am ever put in the position that I need to sell her.

Decide what colors you really hate and don't even look at cars in those colors to avoid tormenting yourself. Cars that you are really serious about get a PPI (they're not cheap). Looking at local cars is best so you can really look them over, drive them, talk to the owner, and get a feeling for the vehicle. Long distance cars are torture at times! If you find a long distance car that you really think you love, don't forget shipping is expensive, but you may find a local Pelican or PCA member that will check one out for you. I wasted $325 on a long distance 911 Carrera PPI that I felt like I could have avoided if I had seen & driven the car.

All the Best in your quest!