Carrera3.2LG50

I have been a car guy since I was a kid and I eventually decided that Porsche was my chosen marque. At 27 I was able to pick up a 944 turbo which I kept for about 5 years and loved every minutes of it.

I bought a 1996 BMW R1100RSL motorcycle brand new in '96 and had both the 944turbo and the motorcycle in the garage for a while. On a nice day I had to flip a coin. After a while no matter which way the coin went I picked the bike. That's when I decided to sell the Porsche and enjoy the motorcycle which I did for 15 years.

I never lost sight of getting another Porsche and I knew all along my next P-car was going to be a late '80's 911. I kept telling myself and anyone who would listen: "someday I'll have a Porsche 911". Well, I had to wait many years before my bank account matched my desires: three houses, three moves, marriage, daughter, layoffs, new job, etc...

Last year was finally the time when both my bank account and I were ready to pull the trigger. I always looked casually and kept an eye on prices and condition etc. Finally one day I was looking at my current car online, my wife came into the room and said "Pretty car. Why don't you go take a look at it.". Next day I was out the door! A couple weeks later I was grinning from ear to ear as I drove my "new" 911 home!

I guess in the end I waited about 10 years of dreaming, saving, and planning on what to get. For all you dreamers out there, keep at it and soon you'll be able to get one too. I'm just a regular guy with an average job, but if you make it a priority it can be done!

rusnak

Wow, I am in awe of you guys and your experiences. Mine are more boring. I take a year to find the right air cooled 911. My latest one came to me through Yahoo cars classifieds. It was a free ad, with not even one picture. I know these cars though, and that ad told me I would like the car. I spent half a day looking it over, and left a $250 deposit, came back a week later w a cashiers check, bought it and drove it home six and a half hours of pure joy. I have been in love with it every day for ten and a half years. I'm 41 also.

GothingNC

Paul,

You lucked out finding the Porsche you wanted at the right time and is was local.

John

w00tPORSCHE

Loving all the posts guys, good to see all the known "faces" responding to this thread. I am getting killed at work. I would love to post something nice as a folllow up to most of these experiences when I get a chance....which will be ........ I don't know when.

Brett San Diego

I think the biggest factor in many long, drawn out searches is financial. It looks like you're well-funded woot which is awesome. You could comfortably pull the trigger as soon as you saw something you liked. I think a lot of people get excited and start the ball rolling before really taking a hard look at their bank accounts or having a discussion with their SO's. I'm guilty within the last 6 months. I was all set to buy a 94 MB E320 Cab (limited production cabriolet model made in only 94 and 95) for a 3rd "family" car for when either of the other 2 is down for repairs. Called a Craig's list ad in San Jose. This was the most perfect car shopping experience I had ever had. Owner was a righteous MB guy. Always dealer serviced. All, and I mean all, known common problem areas for these cars had been addressed by the owner. I couldn't tell that there was any deferred maintenance at all. Always kept in a garage at home and work. And the price... the price was a couple to three thousand below other questionable cars at dealerships with the same mileage. Owner had just bought the new MB E-class cab and was dumping the old one. It was the used car deal everyone dreams about. As I was researching plane ticket prices to San Jose, I asked my wife, "How much did you say the girls' school is going to be?" "Oh, and how much is the after school care?" "Oh." hmmm. No, that's not good. Let's see, maybe I can lighten up on breakfast cereal in the morning and do Ramen noodles for lunch. Nope, still not enough. Damn. OK, I give up. Emailed the seller and dropped my interest. I have to admit I was really bummed out, but I got too caught up in the experience and really should not have been shopping. I'm an admitted car ad junkie. But, back on topic. It think financial limitations drive many to convince themselves that they can find another 911 that is $1000 less but just as good as the last one they just looked at. And the cycle continues and continues. I think all of us would buy Carreras like X038F's tomorrow if the money were there.

Brett

Helios59

Amen to that, Brett.

And, if it was possible, I bet most of us would hang onto all the cars we sell so we can buy other cars.

I especially miss my Honda S2000. I had it for four years and often wish I hadn't gotten rid of it.

w00tPORSCHE

Whalebird: I would love to hear your story when you get a chance.

Greg (YumYum): You waited 6 years for the "perfect" 911...have you ever wondered how you have wasted 6 years of your life not getting into and enjoying a not so perfect 911. You don't need to know everything about your 911 before you buy one in my humble opinion. Compared to WB, I know 2 % of 911 history/tradition/mechanics. That does not diminish the fun that I have when I am in my 997/3.2

Ed: Loving your Christmas gift idea. I am planning something in similar lines for my wife/kids early next year...ya that will mean that I will not be able to retire until I am 65 yrs (I originally thought I would retire at 60) but I love what I do so it's okay. I am so excited for you and can't wait to see your plans for a ruby-sibling.
I hear ya on the instant gratification and that warrants a premium which we people who make fast choices pay.

Artic1: Your three year wait was certainly worth it I would say.

GT9111: I don't think you should wait for your friend to sell his '89..think of all the years you have waited...and who knows what your priorities in life would be when he is actually read to sell his ? Good luck in your search and get one now or in the near future.

Bob *** (911tracker85) : Loved your post. I too have your same int/ext color combo and love it.

Glenntpr: "You see once you drive one it you are either hooked or you are not really meant for the car. Its not like the car is meant for you. You are either a Porsche guy or you are not. It comes with great passion and the craftsmanship and performance are amazing" : Can't agree with you more.

Ray (Helios59): You had to post that burgundy interior and tell me that you had sport seats just to make me green. I love your burgundy interior and recently sat in the sport seats of a '86 coupe, loved the snug fit. So much better than regular seats. BTW, did the thought of not owning that '89 targa bother you now when people talk about '89 being the best year and the special iconic status of the targa. I would say probably not.

g50cab: You are on your third Porsche. Do you see yourself getting into some more in the future as a replacement for your current staple. Nice pics BTW. Thank you.

John (GothingNC) and Paul (Carrera3.2Lg50) : You both certainly knew your priorities and that definitely enhances your overall 911-ownership experience.

Makmov: 5 years of window shopping. How does one do that ?

Rusnak: "I have been in love with it every day for ten and a half years" : Good to know that even though it looked like you did not spend much time looking for one, you certainly got into one that you did not regret getting into. I am happy for you.

Brett: Very nice post. Just wish you could have gotten that MB. I completely agree with the finances aspect for people who wait patiently. Both what about those who have the finances and still wait ... forever and to me waiting more than a year is forever. Drain some of that salt out with a quick water rinse of your Top Ramen noodles for me the next time will ya'..

My take: I am 40 yrs old. My expectations, aspirations, goals in life are quite small: Educate kids well, try to stay fit/healthy, keep your wife or SO happy (luckily mine is very low maintenance..way lower than my 911s and doesnt mind my affair with the garage occupying mistresses), make a difference in other people's lives through some charity as being privileged, there are some obligations that come with the territory. I'm truly blessed as I do make a difference in other people's lives through my profession everyday. It sure helps to have no desire in living in a million dollar home, wanting to become a millionaire, owning a Berkshire Hathaway share, taking vacations to Hawaii, going gambling, getting lapdances, wearing expensive watches etc etc. Divorce can be expensive too I heard. I do work hard like some of you have mentioned but so do all of you and that corner street AM/PM cashier who is a single mom raising 2 kids...didnt they suffer too (like I did spending 15 years after high school educating myself without partying, making sacrifices in life). Both my 911s have enriched my car driving experience to a level that I never could ever imagine. It also helps to realize that in my profession, I am just one law suit (or for that matter one healthcare reform bill passing) away from losing everything and/or closing shop. So that makes for an easy decision when I shop for my next PORSCHE...

Ed Hughes

My plan is to be out of the working rat race by 55, otherwise I'd have a new GT3 on order right now. I'm finally growing up.

JABSEA

I looked for six months before buying mine. I only looked on the west coast (Seattle, Portland, SF Bay Area) instead of nationally. Once I saw it, I paid cash and haven't looked back. Funny thing though... it took me another six months before I stopped checking all the used 911 sites on a daily basis. Once you get the juices flowing...

mike7

Just bought mine on Friday. Been waiting since 2001. Wanted to pay cash and didn't want to effect retirement. I did have an 84 944 for about 5 of those years, but the goal was always a not red, air cooled 911 with no wings (no offence to those who love the tales, just my taste).

ivangene

I "wanted" a 911 since about 1980

Seems that there was always some reason I couldnt get one. I think the truth is I really didnt think I was ever going to get one. I am a blue collar worker. I dont make bad money, but not Porsche money either. I mean, lets get real....

about 4 years ago, in 10 months I went to about 10 funerals... a few of them were friends I went to school with. It started eating at me. I started to queestion life and what things I wanted to do before it was too late. The VERY FIRST thing I could think of was realizing my nearly 30 year old "dream" of owning a Porsche. The more I thought about it the more I realized that the only think I could think of that would be worse than loosing the money, was dreaming about something for 30 years and never actually achieving it.... that's when I said, "I am getting one"

Came home one day from work and told the wife and kids (who all knew I wanted a Porsche, but all believed it was just a hopeful wish) - told them I was going to buy "The Porsche".... not in 5 years, but this year!

Oddly, they actually laughed

About 2 months later, on Mother's day.... I drove up to my house in my Porsche, my wife opened the door.... and gave me the finger!! - then repeated it.... then came out and said "Bull **** !!!" and asked if I bought it? - well yes I had

She never really liked the 996, I mean it was shiny and nice and she liked to look at it, but not ride in it, made her car sick....Buying the 99 was maybe the worst car I could have bought and I lived in fear for a couple years. (if you dont know, go read IMS threads) and although I spent every day learning and trying to get the most out of my time in it, when I sold it I was very happy with what I knew. The best way to gain knowledge sometimes is to experience it first hand. All in all the 96 was a great time and I am thankful for those days.........

Now..... when I "bought" (actually traded straight across, pink slip) the 86' I had no aircooled knowledge... but I knew enough to ask my mechanic (which I didnt do on the 996) - he looked me in the eye and said..... buy this car

I have to say, I never even drove it before I took ownership due to some time constraints that I wont explain, but lets say the need to make the deal was GREAT - I kinda thought, whatever.... its the right deal, the right car and I will "learn" to like it..... OMG was I wrong!!! - the 86' is SOOOOO much more "ME"

I cant get enough and drive it everyday. I work on it, learn what I can and am having the time of my life. Everyday I get out, look back, tell her "That was awsome baby!" and think to myself what a lucky bastard I am to own such a beauty....

How long did I wait?

TOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO LOOOOOOOOOOOOOONG !!!!

I guess what I am saying is, just do it. Do it as smart as you can..... but stop waiting and get involved. Find the right car, stop being so damn picky, get a "good one" and get your butt in the drivers seat!!!

Lastly, you really (most likely) dont even know what you want - when I started this, i thought i would own the 996 for a year, then buy an older one for a year, then get a new one (a year old or so) - Now I have NO desire to get the new one..... NONE! in fact I am leaning to an older one if anything. So the point is, get in, drive, learn, and discover what YOU want out of your 911 experience - and for goodness sake's, why wait longer than you have to.... all of us will agree (I bet) that waiting only postponed the enevitable and left you with the feeling of "Why didnt I do this sooner!"

Cheers

PS - my wife really likes to go for rides in the 86' - no car sickness!

victorltd

When I decided I really wanted a Porsche, it took me one day to find and buy the 04 C4s w/ 3,500k miles. Then I went to see the 72 911t just out of curiosity. Thought about it for 15 minutes and bought it on the spot. I'll agonize over a $200 purchase but for some reason, the big ones are easier to make.

oh snap

I live downtown with my SO and we don't really "need" a car, but I've always loved cars and we like to take long drives from time to time. In August we decided we would buy something after we got some windfall money we were expecting in late October.

I originally started looking at BMWs. ZHP e46 330is and e39 M5s mostly, but after noticing a couple of fairly nice impact bumper 911s I started to wonder if it made any sense to to have a 25 year old German sports car as our only transportation. Well, after a little research I convinced myself that it makes perfect sense (or at least as much sense as owning a 5 - 10 year old BMW). Convincing the girlfriend was easy as she only required the car be "cute." When I asked her if it was a better idea to buy a more practical car with a warranty, like a Civic, she said she didn't want a car that had no soul. I fell in love all over again

A couple of good cars came and went in the time we were waiting for money to come in, but now its here and its only a matter of the right car becoming available in BC or Washington.

So, if anyone knows of a clean, low mile 3.2 coupe that isn't red or yellow and is priced fairly, let me know. I hope to find one before the new year.

Asquared

I've wanted a Porsche since I was 13 years old. I decided to buy one in March of 2003 when I drove my just-purchased used Audi A4 out of the dealer lot and noticed the Porsche dealer across the street.

I went home and told my wife I was going to drive the Audi until I could afford a Porsche, and I asked for half of my annual bonus to be set aside into the "Porsche fund". Four and a half years later, in the fall of 2008, I placed an order for an 08 Targa 4s, which I picked up at the factory in March 2008, five years after I formally decided to buy one.

I could have bought a used one earlier, but my parking spaces were limited to 2 cars, so whatever I bought had to be daily driver. We stored the audi and I've since rebuilt the garage adding a lift allowing me to trade the targa in for an RS and I'm back to driving the Audi most days, but I still drive the RS to work quite often.

Elliot9

I'm intruding on a section of the forum I don't belong in but I figured I'd chime in:

I'm 20 years old and I've only owned a Porsche for 3 months now (85 944). I've wanted a Porsche since age 14, specifically a 911 since age 15. I'm in a little bit of a different situation than you folks however in the fact I am forced to wait because I can't afford a 911 (even a rolling shell would stretch my budget thin). I have my eye on 2 different 911s I'd love to own: a late 80s Turbo Whail Tail Slant Nose in a phantom gray type color (wouldn't matter to me if it was factory or aftermarket I just love hide-away headlamps) and a GT3RS in Mopar B5 Blue (don't ask, just in love with that blue on modern cars reguardless of make). Maybe one day I'll own one or the other, but realistically I doubt it, so I'll continue to work my life away chasing a dream that realistically won't happen (I don't have a lot of money or live in an area where I can make a lot of money doing much of anything). Not waiting by choice, waiting because I don't have an option.