I'm looking at a 87 Targa widebody with only 55K for $19K or a few 95-97 993's between 23-30K. Any thoughts? Thanks

 

I'd stay away from a Targa. I had one and the frame on the removable top wore out enough that not even putting new clips on it would prevent such clips from snapping open and create a huge amount of noise. I also replaced all seals on the top and on the car but still had substantial water ingress through the side windows. Add to that the substantial chassis flex and for me it's not a choice of a car at all!

I own an '87 Coupé now but, with prices as low as they are now, I'd buy a 993 instead of a 3.2 Carrera if I were on the market now. Much better handling, better A/C, better wiper placement, more power, no need to do valve adjustments etc. The list of improvements is extensive, of course. Just make a very thorough PPI (really thorough) and you won't regret it.

 

thanks for the input. i sort of remembered in the back of my mind that there have always been issues with the targa tops being completely seal proof. i think i will actually go ahead and get the 993. i had bad luck with my '03 996 and opted for the Z4 but once you own and drive a porsche you can't get it out of your mind. all other cars just seem like poorly made junk as far as overall integrity and build quality are concerned when compared to a porsche. i like the look of a coupe better but living in la having just arrived from nyc i think i still want a convertible.