About to buy a 911
 

I think this post is the last of my pre-buy jitters. I just want to make sure that the price I am paying does not sound out of line.

For about 8 months we have been looking at Boxsters. I had just found one that I was interested in when I called a local usedPorsche salesman. They specialize in the German brands, both sales and service - they are not an official dealer. They have a good reputation and two friends who I trust with 911's deal with him for service. He has been watching for a Boxster for me, but said he just got in this 911. Today, I drove the 911 for the second time and the Boxster I was interested in for the first time. The 911 is a 1989 Cab in good to excellent shape - 76000 miles. This dealer has serviced the car for several years. There are new 17" Boxsterrims and new tires on it, which I understand may horrify the purists, but they look good to me. Everything works including the power top. Manuals, compressor for the tire, cover for the top when folded down, original tool kit and cover for the car are all in good condition. One free oil change included for $25,750.

The 2003 Boxster was almost perfect. It felt faster, had a much tighter gear shift throw, clutch, brake and steering were much easier than the 911. It seemed to hug the road better. The inside had CD, much better radio, electric gages that would even tell me how much farther I had to go before running out of gas. It included a hard top. Everything was modern and perfect, but it just didn't have the character that the older 911 has. Price $28,500, 39,000 miles.

Now, I don't think I am getting a great deal on the 911, but the price seems to be below the Kelly Blue Book. The dealer is close by, so easy access for service. (The local Porsche dealer OK, but not my first choice. The next Porsche dealer is 60 miles away.)This dealerhas a good reputation. Prices on the web can be much lower for cars even less miles and/or newer models, but I don't know the history of those cars or the sellers reputation etc.

I really thought I would want the newer Boxster which seemed to outperform the 911 in every way, but I guess you just can't rationalize some things. Besides, compared to the Toyota minivan my wife drives or the Burgman scooter I drive, the 911 is still pretty impressive! From what I have read, I get the impression that the 911 will not depreciate that much in a year or two compared to the Boxster if for some reason we decide to sell. That is a big selling point for the 911.

Does the offer sound at least reasonable? I do hate to dicker, but I am not afraid to walk away if it sounds like the price is way off.
Here is a picture of the car.

Thanks much for any information you can share.

Mike

http://images.autotrader.com/images/..._A.562x421.jpg

RE: About to buy a 911
 

I had a similar dilemma before I purchased my 911. I ultimately chose the 911. Go for the 911. You will not be disappointed [sm=smiley20.gif]



[IMG]local://upfiles/4832/05F5F9B8F6144E3C8DFCBE8C49E03DB5.jpg[/IMG]

RE: About to buy a 911
 

This answer may not help you, but you should buy the car you are most happy with, and the car that represents to best one you can afford. I too would head for the 911, but you are doubling the mileage in doing so.
It sounds like the Boxster is a better performer in all ways, so you might be best to go for that choice.
However once you've caught the Porsche bug you will want a 911.
Why not be a little more patient and keep looking.
Check out the Official Porsche Website in the US for cars available.
Regards Big Bob

RE: About to buy a 911
 

Attached is the Porsche US Website address: http://www12.porsche.com/usa/pre-owned-vehicles/search/
Another thought, I know the attraction in the US with its more reliable weather for Cabriolets, but with AC I think the 911 Coupe' is better than both Boxster and 911 Cab.
My view only.
Best Regards Big Bob

RE: About to buy a 911
 

Has a PPI been done, by someoneNOT connected to the selling dealer? These cars can be very expensive to fix, andas it seems your not familiar with them, I would proceed with caution until one is performed. Many a buyer has been fooled by a test drive. Ask me how I know.

As to the price, $25,750 seems high for a car with 76,000 miles.But the summer season is coming and dealers believe buyers will overpay forconvertibles. I have never had that problem as my first choice has always been the coupe.

Finding the right car can be a long process that shouldn't be rushed. Drive a few more 911's and then make your decision.Whichever you choose,get involved with the PCA and the driving events.You'll learn alot about your car and it's potential. My $.02

RE: About to buy a 911
 

Just my opinion, but that price sounds high for a 1989. If you spend just a little bit more you could get a much newer 911. Cars that are driven regularly tend to be more reliable, so I would be wary of a nearly 20 year old car with only 76000 miles on it.

Good luck,

Kevin

RE: About to buy a 911
 

Go for the 911 and shop around. There are plenty of deals out there.

RE: About to buy a 911
 

get the 911!!!!!!!!!

RE: About to buy a 911
 

I have a 97 Boxster and a 01 911 C4, the cars are very very different. The Boxster is more forgiving and obviously the 911 is a lot faster. It depends on what you want! If you can afford it, go for the 911 and you'll smile all the way!