I need some expert experience on this as I'm embarking on a journey to get the right 993.

Here's what I currently do to authenticate a car:
1. Check Carfax for any discrepancies.
2. Check records and compare mileage with carfax miles/dates (unfortunately not all cars come with records and low mileage examples don't have too many records so this isn't always helpful.
3. Have a PPI done on the car
4. View the car in person and look for paint overspray, sanding scratches, orange peel differences, mismatched colors.

Now here is the big question. On older MB's each body panel had a serial number sticker on the car from the factory. Serial numbers can also be found on the engine, transmission and front/rear bumpers. Did Porsche do anything similar on their cars and where can these stickers/stamps be found? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Also does anyone know if these serial numbers stickers/stamps are obtainable from the factory, on MB's they're not. Any help with authentification would be great.

 

You are off to a good start. You will want to check main. records carefully as well. The current owner should have reciepts for service at an independent shop or stamps from the dealer for dealer maint. If an authorized Porsche dealer did the work, it should show up in the Porsche system at any dealer. As far as stamps/stickers to look for, there is one on the underside of the front hood and one I believe on the underside of the backhood as well. A good PPI along with a body PPI will take care of all of those issues as well. I would recommend using a good independent shop. It seems that they do a more thorough inspection than a Porsche dealer. Good luck!

 

Thank you Chris for the reply.

So I guess 993's don't have any serial numbers on body panels which authenticate them. I will have to be even more critical when looking for paint/body damage. If I can find a private mechanic in the area of the car I'll definitely use them before a dealer.

If anyone thinks of anything else let me know.

 

Afshin

Definately go with an independent for the PPI, and if you can, find an independent that is a porsche specialist. Most big cities will have several of these. A good shop will also be able to tell you if car has been in an accident or repainted.

Some repainting is ok and to be expected. Areas like front bumper, hood. One car I came close to buying had 90% repaint job which was easily spotted by the shop I used for the PPI. Obviously that was the end of that car for me.

I did detailed due diligence on 3 cars before I finally found the right one. So expect to strike out a few times. Its a PITA but inevitable when trying to find that perfect car. Good luck and keep us posted!

 

There is a sticker inside the trunk on the drivers side inner fender -- I think it's the paint code. You pull the trunk liner back from its velcro to see it.

The story is if this sticker is missing the car probably got smacked in the front.

Good luck in your search.

 

If buying from dealer - ask to speak with previous owner.

 

Bring a magnet with you and check around the car for any poorly repaired body work that is metal. The non-metal items will be easy to see if they were repaired versus replaced.

 

Thank you for all the replies, I totally forgot about the magnet check.

John I will definitely look for the paint code sticker on the drivers side fender, those are the kind of details a bodyshop would always forget. Stay tuned, I think I've found a car.