First, thanks for looking because I have made way too many expensive mistakes in the past based on gut and not knowledge. Let me define my parameters a little more clearly.

1. Not looking to create a collector car, track car, concours winner, or sleeper, just wanting to build something nice and unique for my son when he turns 16.

2. My son is currently 7 months, so I should have time to build/enjoy myself prior to handing down. I don't have unlimited funds and plan on doing most of the work myself. I am looking at a budget of no more than 20K to spend on the base setup, but wanted to ensure that repair/replacement parts are readily accessible and reasonably priced.

3. I want a stable motor, but nothing to get him in trouble, just good handling. I am really only interested in the 911 series since that was my first and I currently have one as a daily driver. I have been looking at the 80s models, but am really not sure which direction I should go. Convertible would be cool, but Targa or Coupe would be acceptable.

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

I would look to build a car that would go up in value over time (i.e., a collector car).

It's easy. I'd go with a 1990-1994 964.

 

Everybody has different definitions of a collector car which is why I tried to avoid that argument. I would absolutely love to think that everything I purchase and enjoy should increase in value, although not everyone sees it that way. I also understand the reality that my son will eventually bump into things/hydroplane/learn the hard lessons about physics and didn't want this to be at the expensive of a "collector car" (i.e. TT/S 993). I greatly appreciate the neckdown of the 90-94 964 advice and will begin searching. I have done a little more research since the posting into the other post that already exist. I apologize for reiterating the same questions, but are there any fatal flaws other than compression leakdown testing for this series? Bodywork is my weakness, but I plan on doing the majority of work myself.

 

Who is everyone?

How do you know that your seven month old son will even like cars? Is it his car or your car?

And a 1997 Twin Turbo S is a little expensive (only 180 made)? Why not just get a 1995-1997 993 Carrera? The 1997-1998 Carrera S is good.

Just saying. Those problems have been solved (if you buy one with paperwork).

As a previous owner of many 911's, I'd recommend one book: The Used 911 Story by Pete Zimmermann.

 

Vintage Racer, thanks for the information.

Everyone would be defined as though who would give me the "perceived value" of what I believe the car is worth.

I won't lie and act like their isn't some ulterior motives involved with this build for my son.

I don't understand what you mean by the problems are worked out when buying one with paperwork? Are you talking about a warranty or service records of compression testing/PPI
I have never owned a 993 and my current Pcar is a 997.1 TT. I know that is way too much horsepower for me much less a 16 year old. If I can afford to put him on that insurance then I probably will have enough left over for that 993 TT/S. Anyway, I appreciate the book recommendation and will definitely check into it.

Thanks again.

 

I am referring to the paper work as it relates to past service work.

I mentioned the 964. It's ~20 years old now. One car has service records back to the purchase. The other one has no or little records of past service. I'd avoid one and buy the other one.

In older cars, the COA certificate is important.

I understand.

And good luck.....What if your guy is a Ferrari guy?

 

The '84-89 Carreras have crept up in value over the past couple years. The 964s are still the 'red headed stepchildren' of the 911 family. They may grow to be loved as all prior models up to the 993 have. The 993, on the other hand, has never fallen in value and is still bringing nearly 50% of new sale price.

 

I'm hoping that 997 follows the trend of the 993, but the 996 may end up being the best bang for the buck given their aesthetics dropped so many after the 993.

 

I agree with you Zipp. A 996 can be had for next to nothing. They are relieble (discounting some of the motor problems some people faced), water-cooled motors. Easy to drive, comfortable for daily driving, and still offer some nice creature comforts.

As for older cars... you cant go wrong with a 964 or an early SC. 3.2s are raising in value as well as SCs with the G50 box. I personally have an early SC and loved driving it until the bug hit and now (two years later) its still "under-the-knife". No Porsche is cheap.. It may be a cheap car, but it is not cheap to maintain. Im not saying it will cost an arm and a leg, but come on... its still a Porsche.

Earlier than an SC and you are getting into collector territory. But if you are on a budget and want a well oiled machine, maybe look into Targas or Cabs as well. They are generally cheaper than coupes, but just remember they might have leaky seals. Hope this helps.

Chris

 

87-89 porsche 911......classic looks, g50 tranny and hydraulic clutch, easy to drive and great values right now.....just bought one yesterday haha