Hello! I'm a newbie to Porsche...well, to sports cars really. Was 'set' on an M3...then found this: http://denver.craigslist.org/cto/2503913895.html

It's SO clean and nice and drives like a dream. So, my question. First of all, does $23G seem reasonable? Secondly, it seems like 996s are kind of frowned upon in Porsche-land because of the Boxster front-end. If I don't like this car after having it for a while...would it be tough to sell and get my money back out of it?

Also...are there inherent problems with these that I should look for or be aware of?

I know I'm asking completely inexperienced questions; but, I hope someone can give me a little insight.

Thank you, so kindly, for your time.

 

The message board is more active at rennlist.com Check their 996 board. All these questions answered many times.

The prices seems about right to me.

Good luck.

 

I think the consensus you will get is that if you can afford a 2006 or later 997, buy one of those. There are inherent problems with IMS bearing, that can grenade the engine when it goes, and problems with rear main seal (RMS). The IMS problem is the serious one, and I don't think any of us know how prevalent it is in these cars.

I have a very clean and looked after '01 Carrera and I'm very happy with it. I know I'll take a loss when I move on to the next one, but that's what you get with these cars. The air-cooled cars seem to hold their value better (1998 an older).

The bottom line is, if the car is good value and a pre-purchase inspection (from a dealer or good specialist) checks out, buy it and enjoy it. Just remember that these are Porsches so maintenance costs will be higher than maybe your used to! Lots of good info on this site and others on 996's!

 

Literally do not do exactly everything I did and your experience should be good...

But I still love the car just not paying for it....