997 TT!
The Carrera is less exclusive, and a Turbo is better-looking (imo).

 

I would go 997TT, or 997GT3, but he doesn't want a manual.

 

Nope, I want a manual.

 

997S new. I love knowing where my car has been, who has driven it, how they've driven it, etc.

997S is much better looking IMO, more classy, less attention, and sounds much better. Both are amazing performers. These factors make up the hp difference for me in the equation as a whole.

 

New is new ==agreed .
Drive the 997S one mile and it's used .

He may not know the history of the used car but since this is not his first Porsche the technicians whom he trusts would be his greatest advisors if he opts for a used 997tt .

 

In an ideal world I agree. PPI would catch everything, entirely, and you would have the same confidence in buying used as you would if you bought it new and drove it yourself. For that reason I don't think "used = used" because one is known, the other is best guess with a PPI.

My car has not suffered the abuse that I've seen other people put on their cars. It had a proper 2000 mile break-in, unlike many or most owners that post on forums. It hasn't been modded, then had original parts put back in, etc. Maybe I'm just a softie but buying a used SPORTSCAR just isn't the same as buying a used commuter car.