Those are 2002 Turbo 40k mile prices and bordering 2005 997 prices.

 

Mine cost a bit less than they're asking and I overpaid some based on what I have seen here since then. Clean 2004 C4S with 20k miles, bi-xenon, full leather, heated seats, Bose, PSE, GT3 wheels, CPO. On the other hand, the window price was substantially higher -- I paid a lot less than the $55k "stupid price" (the inflated prices put on new and used cars in the hope that someone will come in and just buy it without haggling, which happens often enough to make them keep doing it, plus framing the initial negotiation).

On the other hand, people on Rennlist do keep an eye out for deals, and so think pretty much everything is overpriced. On pricing threads, people who got fantastic deals will be happy to post, while those that overpaid are a lot less likely to advertise it.

 

Agreed, if you're looking at $40k you need to be aware that there are examples of good (but higher mileage) 2001-2001 turbos and early 997s in the low $40s. 40th AE 996's going for under $40k also. Low $50s might even find you a sweet 2004 GT3 (just two months ago there was a 2004 GT3 with 3050 miles for sale, though at $65k asking price).

All the things I found out after I bought mine. At least I checked Excellence, NADA, KBB, etc. But should have waited a bit to let it sink in, and been a better negotiator. At least I have no complaints with my car so far (well other than it isn't a turbo or GT3 ) and I didn't overpay by that much (though sales tax hurts).

 

Although the price does seem high, the 996 C4S is listed as the 996 that is most likely to become a classic by UK's Porsche GT magazine - the story is in the same issue as that IMS article that sparked the brawl on the forums over the weekend!

Personally, for that price, find a CPO car from a dealer. Miles are one thing, but seals, rubber, plastic, hoses, etc. crack over time, nothing you can do about it.

 

low milage 996 = money pit

 

How many miles per year would you put on the car? If you are paying a premium for low miles I assume that you will continue to keep the miles low?

I think there are some very desirable and robust Porsches available in that price range. After you put 20,000 or 30,000 miles on the one you noted you would have an ordinary 996 with ordinary resale
value. Do you see this 996 as "collectable" or as a special interest car?

 

Wow you doubled the miles? I can hear Phil calling his shrink now

 

What he said.

Truth be told for the same price I'd rather buy a C4S with 40K on it as opposed to a C4S with 10K on it, all other factors being equal.

Cars are meant to be driven, especially Porsches!