Mike72

Well as a long time car fanatic I am finally at a point where I can purchase one of my dream cars. I had originally been looking for a 996 C4S but the IMS issue and cylinder scoring has let me to spend the extra money on a turbo. I would like to get some expert opinions on this car...

It's an 04 X-50 6-spd with 88,000km. Basalt black w/ natural leather. 997 turbo wheels. Originally a Texas car imported to Canada in 2010. Rear bumper replaced due to accident (have seen pictures prior to repair). Small tear in headliner and front re-sprayed to get rid of stone chips. Asking price is 44,000 CAD

There are some things I am not thrilled about with the car. it has k-sport coilovers and the front brakes have been upgraded to the Brembo GT 380mm kit which will prevent me from using the OEM 996 turbo wheels. It also has a titanium exhaust system. (Not sure if that's the brand or just a reference to the material)

I would personally prefer a silver on black car but overall condition both mechanical and physical will take priority.

What do you guys think?

Mike72

I should add that I am mechanically inclined and will be doing my own maintenance as well as this will be my weekend car in the summer months only.

techweenie

Sounds like a bargain. Basalt Black will grow on you.

Mike72

Yeah I don't really have any objection to the exterior color, it's more the interior I'm a little hesitant about.

Would it be prudent to have a borescope done on these cars or do they not suffer from the cylinder issues of the C4S motor?

Carlo_Carrera

If you don't love it pass on it. 44,000 CAD is a lot money for a car you don't love.

ANJ-911

If you're buying the car to hold onto it for a while, I'd suggest waiting to find one that you like both the interior and exterior color on. Wait until the right one pops up, eventually one will. The brakes, exhaust, suspension can be swapped no problem so that's not a big issue imo.

I haven't heard of cylinder scoring issues on the 996T's so wouldn't think a borescope is needed, just a pre purchase inspection at a reputable shop. These motors are solid and can run hundreds of thousands of km without being rebuilt.

Olemiss540

Would be happy to swap stock parts with you if you wanted to go back to stock! Good luck with your search, I would love that color combo myself.

uschoice

That color combo is actually quite handsome. I was looking at one just like that at Walter's Porsche a few years ago when I was on the hunt.
The aftermarket pieces sound top shelf, so you may want to consider getting them, even if to just sell later.

Mike72

Another issue which bothers me is that he only has maintenance history from the last 3 years. I would really appreciate a car which has records from day one. Both for my piece of mind and for eventual resale.

rmc1148

I would pass for quite a few reasons and from the sound of it your trying to talk yourself into it. Keep looking a lot of nice cars to choose from.

Mike72

I think you are partially correct. I am just starting to figure out what my go/no go items are and what issues should rule out a car absolutely.

To be honest the color combo is starting to grow on me!!

Nico911

Mike, I went to see this car with a friend of mine who is in the market right now. Did the seller told you about the accident ? The title is not clear on that car. It has a ''rebuilt'' title.

Mike72

I was informed it had been rear ended and was shown the photos of the car prior to the repair. I was not aware that it was a "rebuilt" title. Perhaps there was another accident as the photos from the rear end incident didn't look to bad.

Nico911

Too bad, 'cause the color combo was my friend's first choice... but I told him it was way too expensive for a car with unclear past. I paid mine (2001) less than what he asks and I have a bone stock pristine 996 TT, from the original owner.

Nico911

Maybe you could join us on Facebook man : Porsche Montreal RS.