Considering a cheap Cayenne…good idea or not?!

[stagmark]

Afternoon all - I have a 2001 Boxster S that I am currently having issues with, though not quite yet put me off Porsche’s…yet!

I am considering an older Cayenne (like the idea of a solid winter car - I also live at the bottom of a hill so ideally need a good offroad car that can cope with slippery conditions etc, so can get me out!) - have been looking at fee early 2005/6 ish models…probably the v8…ideally with less than 90k miles… I was wondering if there happened to any thoughts / or an idiots guide as to what to typically look out for please?

What are the typical weak points (understand the cooling can be a bit of a weak point?).

Are there any particular models you would look for / are more desirable than others?

 

[pwebb]

There's quite a good 'buyers guide' here

Main things that you will hear about are coolant pipes (were plastic, and most now changed to aluminium, so check) kardon shaft, and the usual plugs and coil packs.

At that age, it's worth getting a proper check before buying. It's a long time since I had the V8, but a wonderful thing, if a little thirsty. About 18-20mpg from memory. I switched to Diesels later on, but had the first two generation, the 4.5 and 4.8. The Turbo was a bit unnecessary, I thought!

Panoramic roof, Bose, leather interior, and in my case air suspension were my key options. Winter tyres made the car brilliant when all around were floundering in snow, ice and wet weather like we are having today.

Good luck with your search.

 

[Peter_Bull]

In the summer I needed a car that could tow a small trailer and also be used as a drive blocker to stop delivery vans and neighbours using my drive to turn round. So infuriating.

Really, I just wanted a shed for and settled for an early Cayenne 957. But like most of us when you start looking, you realise that you’re not going to get much for a few £’000s.

I looked at early 957 Cayenne’s and Ford Rangers but sadly they were just not what I expected and had seen better days, so I decided to raise the budget.

I eventually found a 2010 958 Cayenne 3.0 V6 diesel that was in excellent condition, but because it was at a car dealership, I know I paid slightly more than I needed, but having the 3 months warranty that came with it was worth it. They sorted out several issues, and from the outset I really love this car. Even my wife loves to drive it. It a much different Cayenne than the previous model and I would suggest you try and stretch your budget.

In 5 months, I have covered 6k miles and I usually get well over 35mpg. Around 40 on a run which for a 2-ton car is remarkable.

Bonus is, we save the mileage on the 992 and my wife’s BMW, but enjoy the Cayenne tremendously with its tremendous torque and high seating position, not to mention the fabulous loading space. If Porsche still did diesels, then I would have no hesitation of ordering one!

Old or newer you will love a diesel Cayenne.

 

[stagmark]

Thanks for the feedback… it feels like I am on the right lines, and feel quite keen to find one now…, though just to expect to pay as ‘bit’ for it (upfront and potentially sorting a few bits out!)…
On the chance anyone comes across a good one, feel free to share…!

 

[944Turbo]

I went for a 3.2 petrol (2005) and I am enjoying it - its not that quick but, but I am enjoying it enough to now consider the potentially more risky (financially) Turbo in future.
Tony