[NYNick]

This brings up the age old argument. Do I/they drive it, or invest in it?

Being a Porsche owner from the 1960's, I bought my car to drive to work, school etc. It was my DD. True, it was a COOL DD, a bit unknown and expensive to buy/own, but that's why I loved it. It drove well, and was fun.

Porsche went mainstream in the 80's, and ticked me off. They went chasing the almighty dollar, making bigger and heavier and more luxurious cars to appeal to the CEO and patent leather set. Of course, part of the reason they ticked me off was because I couldn't afford one, but I still didn't like the direction.

Now, Porsche as a brand has blossomed into a worldwide household name. They're still building unbelievable cars, but not necessarily the ones I want. Once again, they are quite unaffordable to all but the 1%, yet sell quite well. The 911 is no longer a bit unknown, but quite well known, and a justifiable legend.

I've had 9 Porsches. My third foray in ownership was a 996, then 997's. I then got back into air cooled, and was promptly reminded what made me fall in love in the first place. I imagine most of you harbor the same feelings for your air cooled of choice.

I doubt the auction house buyers or sellers feel the same way. Now, it's they who are chasing the almighty dollar. A 912 for $82,000? 356's for $300 plus? Good for the sellers! Good for the auction houses! Might even turn out to be good for the buyers!

But it's bad for the drivers. As has been mentioned before, when it gets to the point you're too afraid to drive or even park your 911 on the street, we all lose. Give me one with some 'patina'. Give me one with some rock chips. Give me one I can thrash from time to time.

I didn't fall in love with a trophy car. I fell in love with a hot sports car that brought big smiles to my face. I'm driving her, sometimes hard, and god forbid, I might even red line the thing from time to time in a corner.

I don't begrudge the auction house set, or the investors. I'm just not buying what they're selling.

Nick