OK folks, I'm on my second 997 (had a C2S cab, now have a T4S), but keep getting attracted to the 993s. I have to admit that part of the appeal, besides the great looks, solid clunk of closing doors, and more "rawness", is the prospect of lower depreciation rates. The newer P-cars depreciate in huge amounts, which is one reason I've purchased used ones and saved a lot of depreciation.
I haven't yet driven a 993 and will try to do so in the near future. The TT appeals due to it's higher power, although I do like the clean look of the C4S. I expect it may feel a little lacking in power after my current T4S.
So in reading info on cars for sale and reading these forums, it appears that many TTs have had turbo re-builds, clutch re-builds, suspension re-builds, top end re-builds, hose replacements, etc. etc. etc. While the reduced depreciation on these cars would justify higher repair costs (you can do a fair amount of maintenance for the cost of depreciation on a newer 997), I'm curious just how often these major maintenance items occur on the 993TT and 993TT-S. [While the S is obviously much more expensive, it may be justified if it holds its value better.] I suspect that a car with 60,000 miles that has had these major maintenance items done may be a better buy than a lower mileage car that hasn't had these things addressed yet. Am I correct?

I'd appreciate any suggestions from experienced 993 owners, especially TTs. If I bought one, I would likely drive about 5000 miles/year and enjoy the car. I love my T4S, but fear the depreciation will continue to hit the pocketbook hard over the next couple of years even though I got it at a big discount when less than a year old.

Thanks for any suggestions/experiences.

 

I would imagine that 5000/yr wouldn't cause many headaches. Mine had 19,000 miles on it when I bought it and I've put 6000 miles on mine in 2 1/2 years without any major headaches. I think your theory on low mile vs. high mile car is going to be very case-by-case.

Get a good one though and you won't be sorry. Good luck.

 

I purchased a 96 993 turbo 18 months ago with 23000 miles . I own a german car specialty repair center and do all my own work. I use this car as a daily driver and have done 20000 miles in this time. Other than brakes, and tires ( and this is most likely because I drive it like I stole it). I am 53 years old and feel like I am 20 every time I drive it. I have owned other exotics and this is the most well engineered car in the world.
Dme relays fail and you should always carry a spare.

Greg

 

That is good news carcrazy52. I want my car to be good enough to be a daily driver and a blast to drive. I'm not abusive to cars (I'm a Mechanical Engineer), but I do enjoy spirited driving. Looks like I need to drive a TT and see for myself. Thanks for the info.

 

Drive a 993TT and you'll be hooked. Just be sure to have an independent, knowledgeable shop do a thorough PPI to avoid any future "surprises" as these cars can get expensive fast if they aren't properly maintained. Also be prepared to walk if the car doesn't come with full paperwork. The 993TT is a raw, lean, incredible driving experience. And it'll be plenty fast for you

Enjoy the hunt!

 

use mine as a daily driver as well–love it.

 

funny, I am also an ME and I'm the same way!