Hey guys, new to the forum, but I know you guys have a high level of knowledge for this kind of question. I'm stuck deciding between three cars for a new daily driver. I currently have a 135i and I really want to change it up a little. Been pondering these three cars, mainly the Porsche. I'm hoping you guys would be able to help me out since y'all own/owned Porsche's and can compare them to other cars and different experiences/thoughts/opinions.

Car one- 997 Carrera S- is it worth the money to buy the S over the standard Carrera?

Car two- e92 M3, love bimmers, but I want the truth on this car cause I haven't actually spent anytime around it.

Car three- Aston Martin V8 Vantage

All of these cars would have a standard gear box. I'm looking for a good, comfortable, fast but fun daily driver. Please let me know what you think.

 

On a Porsche forum you answers will be bias.

Get the 997, and yes the S is worth the extra $ over the non S

 

I agree with Northvan, take this question over to the bimmerforums and you might get more votes for the e92 M3

My choice in the following order.

1. Yes, get the 'S', in the used market, it's not that much more. You will never have a doubt whether you've made the wrong decision. I would hate to get the non-S and wonder what it is like to own a 'S'.

2. I had considered an AM V8 Vantage, in fact. I was looking at an AM first before I decided to get the Porsche. The decision came down to, Porsche wins on everything except looks. It drives better, it's faster, it's cheaper to maintain, etc.

3. BMW M3 is a great daily driver, it's the cheapest to maintenance but it's not on the same level as a Porsche and AM.

 

I use my 997 as a daily driver and love it every day!

 

I would not even consider the Vantage, its slow, heavy, and handles like a pig. It is gorgeous though, but not for a DD.

The E92 M3 is not very good with a manual, this car runs a lot better with the DCT tranny. Its really a great car for a DD, with comfort and performance.

The 997 should always be an S, but are you considering a 997.1 or .2 .
If its the .1, I would get the M3 instead. If its the .2 then it would be the top choice. Without me explaining why, go test drive them and see if you agree. IF not, at least you will have that test drive experience to sway you in the right direction.

 

I use my GTS as a daily driver. If I needed more space I'd go for the M3. The Aston wouldn't be on my list.

 

If you want something comfortable (easier to live with, especially as a DD) I would suggest M3. I came from a M3 to the 911. I would drive the M3 if that's my only car, but that's just me. The best way to find out your amsterdam is to go spend some good time with each car you have in mind then maybe you will find what you really want.

 

I went from a 135i to an M3...that was a big improvement and I think you'll be happy making that switch. I would definitely DD the M3 over my GT3, but the Carrera will be more comfortable than the GT3 of course, and it will be a closer comparison. but the M3 still wins on practicality, I think. but get the e90

oh one thing where the 911 will win hugely is at the pump, especially if you commute long distances

 

M3 (or C63) if you need a real back seat, otherwise definitely the 911. AM only if you're less interested in driving and more interested in looks and luxury.

 

you're not kidding. Going @90 on the highway my 997.2 carrera 6 speed I'm still getting 24mpg!

BMWs which I own and love, don't really get good mileage in general despite the advertising hype. This is amplified in the M3 b/c it's relatively heavy, requires high rpms to thrill and has a small tank.

The M3 is a great DD, but you won't stay up nights dreaming about driving it. It's a little too comfortable/practical/easy to drive IMHO.


BTW, my rear drive 911 is my only car-in the northeast-with a child . [wifes in the X6]

Good luck.

 

As of 2 weeks ago, I was in the same boat as you. I came from a 2011 BMW 535i, and after never really falling in love with the car, wanted something smaller and sportier. So I was between the 911s and the M3.

I test drove a base 911, then a 911S, and after that my decision between the two was made, no question. The S is so much more alive then the base..

Then the decision was between the M & 911s. I was wondering about the 911 being ok for a daily driver. It's been 2 weeks now, and I literally get butterflies in my stomach when I know I'm about to drive somewhere. I don't think it would be the same with the M3.

I test drove the M3, and although it was impressive, it didn't excite me as the 911 did. I really don't have many people in my car, except occasionally my wife, so the back seat isn't really an issue.

I'm VERY happy I went with the 911. it's beautiful engineering..

 

So I'm in a similar boat, though I am trying to decide between the 335i/is, 987 Boxster and possibly the 997 if I can find a good one in my price range. In youre area you must get a fair amount of snow, what do you do when get 2, 3, 4 or 6" of snow or its icy? Thats one of my concerns going to a sprts car for a DD.

 

Are the .1 & .2 that different? I drove an '05 C2S this weekend and found it to be pretty enjoyable but have yet to drive a .2...now I am wondering if someone can fill me in on why a .2 is worth that much more and that much more exhilirating.

When I drove a manual E92 M3 I was completely underwhelmed (I honestly found my E36 to be WAY more fun, despite being down 150hp)

 

Any 911 will make a great DD. The technology in the 997.2 is a step ahead and would be a better buy right now I think. Once you're bored of 911s, switch to an exotic like the Aston.

 

Updated interior, better Nav, more power and no IMS.