jwible

First a little background --

I'm waffling between a 993 or 996 Porsche or an E46 M3. I REALLLY like the Porsche, but have a couple of young kids and think the M3 will be more kid friendly.

BUT, I want a Porsche.

I found a '95 with 124k miles on it. Here's the link -- http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=251234794

So I'm wondering what you expert type folks think of higher mileage 993s. The owner said he hasn't run a compression check or leakdown and he's an aircraft mechanic and thinks the engine is still tight. He also has a dizzy belt but hasn't replaced it yet.

So, what kind of service would I be looking at right off the bat, and if compression numbers weren't up to snuff how much does a typical rebuild run for this motor -- rings, bearings, valve guides, etc.

KBB lists it as $15k and I'd probably offer a bit more than that but lower than asking.

The car is in Atlanta if that helps any. How much is a typical PPI with compression and leakdown? Also, other than Jim Ellis who would you guys recommend in the ATL area? I'm in Newnan to be precise.

Thanks guys.

samsnead

KBB is irrelevant on these types of cars.

jwible

Other than that what are the caveats with a high mileage car? I know a rebuild it is in the cards at some point, but how long do they typically go before they need it if it's properly maintained and street only?

RallyJon

Here are some pricing data points.

samsnead

The engine could go another 80k and be fine, its hard to tell without tearing it down. A leakdown would probably be the most telling, along with oil consumption.

Things will need to be replaced with a car of this mileage, the power steering rack will be 1K to replace.

If the budget is tight, maybe look for a clean 964. You could probably pick up a well sorted one for low 20s.

Stealth 993

It looks ok from the pics, get it checked out, & if it passes, then make a offer. Don't get to hung up on the miles, it's more important that it was cared for.

When I was looking, I also had the E46 M3 & 996 as other choices, I could not be happier with my 95 C4!

Nuff

My 95 has almost 120k and it runs great. Make sure you get a good PPI. IIRC they range anywhere from $250 - $500.

Good luck!

jwible

The owner sent me some pictures of some dings to the body. One by the right taillight that doesn't look bad and another deep dent above the right wheel well. He says he was quoted $600 to fix the front fender, but it's a deep crease and I'm thinking the fender would need to be replaced. Might pass on this one.

ljugete

My 993 has a couple of little dents and creases (gives it some character) and these can be patially filled and touched up with factory acrylic paint. Don't fool yourself, this is a 13 y/o car but, they don't make this type of quality car anymore and sorted out with TLC will make it all good. Use this as a means of negotiating (have him change the belt and do the Trans. rack rebuild (I bought a rebuild kit on line = $70.00 and now is bone dry!).

His asking price (if PPI is good) is very reasonable. Mileage is very subjective (mine has alot of highway miles = preferred over city miles = less wear and tear on the car. My gas mileage is b/w 25 and 30 mpg (depending on how sporty you drive her) = not bad with today's gas prices!

Good luck to you with your purchase!

Glen Watkins

I just replaced my steering rack for $370.00 -If you can do the work yourself, these cars aren't too expensive to maintain...

Upgrading suspension components on the other hand....

Glen Watkins

I should also mention that my car has 186k on the clock and has made it through 8 track days this season...

GothingNC

Spotted another 95 993 with 100,000 miles in Savannah GA for a little more but seems to be well taken care of. (no affiliation)

http://savannah.craigslist.org/cto/858202875.html


John

hoboken56

Check this one out I went to see it and it looked nice, had a few dings but the inside was nice and I know they will tale less...

http://http://www.autotrader.com/fyc...0000&cardist=6

bluejam

Personally, I don't think dings add character to a car. On the contrary, the character is on how "clean" an old/high mile car is, showing the meticulous care over many years of use.
I'd pass on the 1st one and check out that black beauty on Craigslist.
BTW, got my '95 C2 on CL and I am just about to take my photo of the odometer at 95,993.

Falcondrivr

Mine is rapidly approaching 130K. I think that price is good if the PPI checks out AND there are records of good maintenance. With a high mile car, records are a big percentage of the price. No records and good PPI, 20K. Full records and good PPI, 25K.
As always, my 2 cents only, your mileage may vary.