Buying my first 911 (996)

[Frank2k]

Wow... Thanks for the advice folks. Will print this out when the time comes which should be in October when I think prices do go down a little on 2nd hands...

Few more questions:

1. Is a Turbo much more expensive to run than the others on my list?
2. How do I know if a tiptronic needs the equivalent of a "clutch change" (have no idea how an auto gearbox works compared to a manual)? I mean, on a manual you can feel if it needs changing but on an auto it's different I take it?
3. Is milage a huge deal on these cars if they have been looked after very well?

Have never owned a car before (no need for it) so I'm getting excited indeed.

Lee, yes the exterior colour will have a say (and so will the interior) so I have also put a lot of thought into this as well. The cab is red with black hood and black interior, the others silver or dark silver with black or (clean) cream interior...

Funny how I get this warm feeling inside when I see the cars and that's why I need the hard facts before I part with my money and a reality check by you guys!

More questions to come for sure and once again, thanks a mill so far to you all

[Lee 944]

Answers,

1 - No, a turbo servicing cost should be around the same. The potential for repairs are a wee bit higher. Turbo heat shields and other small items need replaced eventually, however replacement turbos would be expensive. On the same vein, a replacement engine on a 3.4 would be dearer than a replacement turbo.

2 - If the gearbox oil has been changed regularly, then the torque converter and box should last as long as the engine. You shouldn't need to worry about the box. Just check on the test drive that it works in both manual and auto.

3 - Mileage is irrelevant if the car has been well looked after, with all the servicing, fluid changes and maintenance done correctly then these cars will run for ever.

When buying a Porsche you need to consider 3 things. Condition, history and condition, in that order.

[Frank2k]

Thanks Lee,

That settles it then. Based on what you have told me to look out for I'm going to aim for the Turbo and must admit that I'm no longer as worried I was before.

I shall return with more questions as they pop up.

Thanks again for the tips!

//Fred