Hey Everyone,

Time is finally here - I'm getting my first Porsche!

Unfortunately, I'm pressed for time and don't have the luxury to wait for the perfect combination of price and spec, or buying a car when they are least expensive for that matter.

I've done some looking around and here's whats on offer:

2006 Cayman S with 38k going for high 20's (car is close to me, so I could get a PPI before buying it)

2006 Boxster S with 21k.. asking 30 but will let it go in the high 20's (car is in Texas, I'm in NY so would have to get it shipped, but its at a reputable BMW dealer)

2005 Boxster 2.7 (obviously not my first choice) Sports chrono, S wheels, only 20K.. listed at under 25 but will probably let it go for 22-23 and its in perfect condition - car is at a dealer in GA, I could drive it back and possibly get a PPI at purchase.

The car will probably get a little more burn than a weekend car would, but definitely less than a daily driver. Not going to see much track time, although that's definitely in the cards.


So what do you guys think? Spend less and settle for a non-S in great condition? Spend more and get a Boxster S 1600 miles away without test driving it? Or get a higher mileage Cayman S (CS is my preference over Boxster)?

Any info/advise is much appreciated!

 

I'd recommend spending a bit more and looking for either a gen 2 cayman or boxster. The first gen cars suffer from IMS failure, and they can get pretty expensive to fix. If it's going to be a garage queen, or only driven on the weekends, then a gen 1 probably won't be an issue.

 

Well if your preference is a CS then I would start by just looking at those but would advise to drive both so you can figure out what one you want. As advised I would take your time and shop around and do lots of reading on here and other sites about issues that can arise. As far as price the Cayman seems to be like a decent deal, if the PPI and everything else checks out. Keep us updated

 

Thanks guys.. Although my preference is the CS, I am definitely not opposed to the Boxster. Problem is my budget is set at 30k and being that it's summer time - it's not the best time to shop for a used car.

As far as the IMS issue, I've read up a ton about it and its definitely something I might address when its time for a new clutch but from what I gather its not as bad as some make it seem.

I'm also considering an aftermarket warranty.. Whats your guy's take on that? Worth it or waste of money?

 

Exactly right. That is one of the biggest myths surrounding the CS 987.1. It's less than 1% failure rate. It has been discussed and dismissed.