!999 911

[Toast54]

Hi all
I have an opportunity to buy a 1999 911,black on black for 8K (reserve) price or a buy it now price of 10K.It does have 160K miles and 6 previous owners. The paints faded in spots, seat bolster is worn but everything works according to the current owner. I've been thinking about stepping up from my 924S but as a novice,I'm certainly open to any input.Thanks again.

[tonythetarga]

You need to read up on the issues with the M96 motors in the Boxster and 996's. Search this and the Boxster forum for IMS bearing and cracked head or 'intermix'. These cars are sensitive to temperature and overheating is dangerous. The rads must be cleaned (and inbetween the a/c rad and radiator) every couple of years. You need to take the bumper cover off for that. If you plan to track it, you may need to add a center rad. Make sure you have records of service. The water pumps can fail and we're back to cracked heads and mixing coolant and oil. With 160k the IMS bearing might be due for replacement too. Remember, it isn't the purchase price you get the car for, it is what will it take to keep it reliable? Without records you are gambling your money. If the motor goes, the roller is only worth about 4-5k with the core motor. a replacement used motor is 10k and a rebuild is more. You definitely want the coolant checked for oil and oil checked for coolant to start. Happy hunting.