£20k budget..... Mad or do able

[Lenox]

Hi, 1st post. Big 911 fan, always wanted one and the wife has approved if I can get one for circa £20k.

Am i mad or is it possible? See a few on pistonheads and eBay but worried they are polished doodoo.

I'm currently running an X5 35d and just bought the wife a new Audi a6 avant so I can get something sportier.

Your thoughts are much appreciated.

 

[Dylan1]

you are mad ` agreed []

there are a few at that budget but i would urge caution-these were expensive new and very expensive to fix -and out of warranty by now in all probability
GLW the hunt

 

[Rodney Naghar]

Just to confirm you're looking for a 997 model turbo or carrera variant or possibly a 996?

 

[Motorhead]

Derek,

If you can look past the 911 badge, you'd be far better going for a Cayman S. Identical performance in the real world, excellent mid-engined balance plus two proper "boots". Also much rarer than the 997 and, with your other cars, you need a proper 2-seater not a 2-seater with space for 2 legless dwarfs..!

Plenty of very nice motors available within your budget.

Good luck.

Jeff

 

[997GT3_KO]

Unfortunately in the used car game, you get what you pay for... and any 911 TURBO (assume its a 996 series) that has reached that price level needs to be treated with the greatest caution before placing down your cash... Make sure you get an independent assessment of the target vehicle beforehand... just to be on the safe side...

 

[Lenox]

Thanks for the replies.... Ideally I want a C4S, but an carrera 2 would be more than fine. I love the idea of a turbo but the 997 is way out of my current price bracket and the 996 at that level is going to be worn and too much maintenance.

Caymens are lovely but I have a new baby and two nephews under 8 that I know would love the occasional spin.

I have a local German car specialists I have used for the X5 and he often has Porsche in, plus they do either warranty direct or warranty wise repairs... So im ok re that....

I guess at circa 8/9 years old is a 911 going to be unable as a daily commuter? I get 25mpg out of the X5 on my punt into work so I'm OK with full bills. But will it simply fall to bit and cost a fortune doing short journeys?

Also what should I be looking out for recall or common fault wise... Aware the 996 C4S, which I was going for originally has potential engine issues that are not applicable to the 997... Right...?

 

[angusc]

I think it's doable, I purchased my 997.1 C4S 2006 on eBay without physically going to see the vehicle. In my opinion you are fairly well protected by eBay and PayPal. I did spend 27K on mine but I have see some lovely looking porches in your price bracket. Just shouted some time researching the eBay market to get a feel for what's available. But do remember the running costs! I have only owned mine since March and already replaced the water pump and now due 4 tyres plus AC fix will cost 1400 at the OPC but less than half price at other repair shop.

 

[Lancerlot]

I counted over 20 997's for sale on the Pistonheads site, all around the £20K mark, so it seems quite possible to land a car within your budget if you really want one and are prepared to travel around a bit to view them.

Good luck with the search and we're looking forward to welcoming you into the 997 Register very soon! []

Regards,

Clive.