I am about the part with my beloved BMW 550i. She is just too big for me... I prefer smaller models and I think another German beauty might fit the bill.

So, I've snooped around the site and it looks like the Porsches that fit my price range ($45=ideal, $50=absolute max) are: '02-04 4S, '02-06 S and '04-ish GT3s

That said, I really like the idea of the 4s setup with the wide body and improved suspension/brake parts...

Where my issue comes in is that I can't help but to wonder if the AWD is all it's cracked up to be or if I should pursue a cheaper/newer S or similar GT3.

Thanks for the help!!!!!

Turbo! I feel like the past 3 porsches that I owned were just practice for the real deal.

dude... GT3.
or a turbo

996TT or 997S (if you want warranty)

Gt3.

If you like the track, get a GT3. But you will have a hard time getting a decent example for under 50K. It will probably be higher mileage and a tracked car.

For 50K, you can get a pretty new 997 - and the interior is much better, IMO.

-td

gt3 might be out of your budget.

c4s: best bang for the buck and u can have some $ left for mods. find a good condition one tho. 4WD bragging rights!!!

c2s: new styling(not as unique as the 996 4s tho), better interior. might slightly go over your budget tho.

996 turbo if you want the awd and power for around town, GT3 if you're leaning towards tracking it as well, 997 (maybe S if you have the money) if you want something newer, lower mileage, and just want the pure beauty, prestige, performance, etc. of a Porsche.

how about 996 GT2?

Vette Driver


Porsche Driver

I'm looking for something that I can drive often. I'm afraid that the GT3 will be a bit much to drive as much as I'd like to.

I really like the distinctive look of the 996 4S and the (at least perceived) feeling of security that comes with the AWD. Having driven BMWs for the last 10 years I'm a little apprehensive about the learning process associated with all that weight in the back.

THe idea of having a turbo is nice, but I wonder if maintenance will make ownership cost prohibitive... can anybody chime in?

I think to sum it all up, I want a real driver's machine that looks distinctive (i.e. the 4s/turbo), that I can drive (almost) daily and still take to the track...