Tripe46

Hey Everyone!

I've been after a 911 since I was aware of their existence, and I'm now approaching a point where I might be able to actually get one!

I've been in a BMW/Audi guy for the past 10 years. (Currently own a 2002 E46 M3 and and 2016 Audi S3, traded an E90 M3 for the Audi). Got bitten by the motorcycle bug for a while and had plans for a cheaper car and a really nice bike. Then a close friend was killed on his and I just sort of lost interest. So I'm back to cars full time.

I leased the S3 and when it's up I hoping to land my first 911. I've driven a few very briefly (993c2s, 996 turbo, 997 c2s + c4s) and I'm curious as to what people with experience would recommend to a first timer. I'll do my own wrenching, but nothing past fluids/brakes and simple or anything that can be done in my driveway.

I'd prefer a RWD model, but if there's a reason(s) that I should consider an AWD model I have nothing against it.

Any recommendations on cars or places to start gathering info is much appreciated!

DC911S

C4S....love that wide-end.

Alan A

Budget?
You prefer to buy or lease?
How long do you keep a car normally?
You care about age or mileage?

The Fat Kid

It is impossible to make recommendations without a budget...

I went from a '15 S4 to a 991.1 CS2, so I can help if you are interested in the latter.

Tripe46

Right I should have mentioned budget. So I'm definitely in the used market, I can't swing a new one (even a lease). I have kicked around the idea of a new 718 cayman but I think I'd rather a used 911.

I'm in the 40-60k neighborhood. I could probably go a little over 60 and or sell the E46 for some extra cash. However I would only consider selling the E46 for the "perfect" car.

I'm planning to keep my eventual 911 for a long time, forever if I sell the M3 to get it.

I don't care about age or mileage as anything I get will probably be well out of warranty.

I want a car that needs nothing (or very little) out of the gate, with 3 pedals.

More than anything I want one that I don't have to "worry" about. My E46 M3 has been a gem, but I had an E90 M3 for two years that had a really expensive electrical problem every time I turned around.

I'm getting more and more comfortable with a wrench. So if a particular model is significantly easier to work on, that could sway my decision a lot. Thanks for the response!

tommy618

For low $60k, you can get a very nice 997.2 in any trim levels (C2S, C4S, GTS, etc) or 991.1 base C2, possibly with CPO too. You need to drive both 997.2 and 991.1 to see which platform you like. FWIW, I just went from a 997.2 Targa 4 to a 991.1 C2S and it is noticeably different.

For under $50k, I would recommend only 997.2, not the 997.1. Many choices out there, you need to know which trim and options you want.

Spend some time searching online and subscribe to the "Hot For Sale" thread in the 991 section if you are looking for a 991.1. A lot of info on that thread.

Have fun and good luck.

The Fat Kid

^This, especially the HFS thread. That thread will educate you on the 991.1, and help you find an incredible deal.

One of the best tips is pulling build sheets since 911s can have $40k+ in options; just replace the VIN in this link: https://admin.porschedealer.com/repo...AB2A91CS122298

You can find a higher-mileage CPO 991.1 C2S in the low $60k range, but you need to check the locator constantly and be ready to pull the trigger!

DC911S

a 997.2 GTS, will still be close to 70K.

Alan A

I'll offer a contrarian opinion. And I'll admit to bias - I'm recommending what I bought.
Drove a 997.2, a 997.1 and both 991.1 and .2s as well as a 991.1TT this year while shopping.

All are ok. Kinda.
The 991.1TT is very nice, but it's big. And >100k.

I'd look for a nice 996TT for 50k or so and save a few $ for maintenance.

The interior isn't as nice, but as soon as the tach hits 4K you'll know why.

Rvca3112

This is my next step^