I am considering getting my first Porsche and looking at a rather high priced 944 Turbo ($8,000). That said, the car (appears to be) completely restored and well-sorted, with supposed receipts/repair history.

It has 120K miles, a proper carfax and the water pump and timing belt were both replaced at around 95K miles.

I am of course considering an offer based only on a full mechanical inspection by a Porsche mechanic.

My question(s) are: is this a decent "year" with respect to mechnical relaibility (my expertise is older MG's — I know nothing of Porsches, other than the 944 was a nice driving car, and somewhat practical with its hatch and fold-down rear seat.)

What should I look out for when having a '86 inspected? Is there any sure tell-tale signs that the car may have been raced in SCAA type event or otherwise used hard? From what I've read, there are enthusiasts with over 200K miles on these cars; do I need to be concerned about the mileage with respect to engine or transmission life?

Anything helpful with respect to evaluating a car of this age would be appreciated; I don't want a "project" car ... I want a summer 2nd car for our family that is reasonably reliable and not and arm-and-a-leg to maintain.