DeadStick

I'm only 3 weeks into my search for a 911, and today took a test drive in what might be "the one."

It's a 40 Jahre, #249, with 39K, in what I would call 9+ original condition – only a few rock chips and light scratches, paint thickness 8 or under all around, like-new interior. The CarFax says 4 owners, but it looks like the first two were dealers passing it around, and the current owner has had it since 8K on the clock and had it regularly serviced at a Porsche dealership. No known issues.

The test drive was perfect. The car runs strong, shifts smoothly, and put a big grin on my face. (My point of reference is my last 911, a 1970 E, and I'd say this one comes close for the "go kart" feel.)

Notable options are Nav, Comfort seats, driver memory seat with auto lumbar, and Natural Leather. Unfortunately, no PSE or sport seats. It has new Pilot Sports all around, and a complete set of books and records. No luggage.

Looks like I can get it for $35-36K, which is $5K below NADA trade-in value. My other options in my budget of $35K would be holding out for a 996 C4S, or finding a 993. Whatever I get will be my daily driver on a 15 mile freeway commute.

Will the 40 Jahre either 1) hold its value better than the other two options, or 2) make a better track car someday due to its X51 package, when I'm ready to upgrade?

What do you all think?

knfeparty

Bought mine with very similar options with 42k, 1 owner, for less than that. $35k is a fair price but you can probably do a bit better.

It's so hard to find luggage. My original owners turned the luggage in when they traded the car and it disappeared after only a few days on the lot. grrr

rpm's S2

That could be a sweet deal if the PPI gives it a clean bill of health.

babylonboots

When you get into that price range, there seem to be some turbos available. Personally, I'd opt for a Turbo given the choice over the anniversary edition. Good luck with whatever you decide on!

Hyper911

cant compare a 35k turbo , it will not be in the same shape as that 40th. good price imo. You get what you paymfor, choose to pay more up front or get a cheaper car and add costs of repair and maint. It will work out to the same after a year or so.

2K7TTMIA

Tough choices? Turbo or GT3 would be ideal for 996 styles. But obv prices are a bit higher. It would be difficult to find a 9+ Turbo for under $40k; you may find an 01 or 02 in that range. The AE is a desirable 2WD, lighter, improved design and performance, over any other standard 996. If you're willing to hold out for a C4S and you would like AWD due to your desires and/or needs, then I say C4S is your best bet. Cab or coupe. Can't say much for 993, but plenty of threads on their practicality as a DD.
GL in your purchase.

Detoxx

I got my 40th for a little more than that with 15.5K on the clock 6mo ago. Searched around for a month or two and had to fly 1k miles to pick it up and drive it home. I'd say its a fair price. Also looked at c4s, as I love the wider stance, but living in socal I don't need awd (have a saab 9-2x for the mtns & dog) and x51 + lsd + lighter weight won out.

street rod

I think its a price that is within the normal asking range for this car. At this point you definitely need a PPI done by a reputable Porsche mechanic before making any more decisions or offers. If the PPI comes out clean and its the car you are looking for then offer 33k and see how low they might go. If the PPI says it needs some things fixed then get an estimate from them and deduct it from your offering price. If anything seems fishy just remember that there are a lot of other good cars out there if you do your homework and wait for the right one. Taking a year or more of hard looking to find the right car is not unusual at all. Good luck I hope it works out for you.

DeadStick

Would paying $170 for a PPI at the same dealership that has been servicing the car since 2006 be a good idea, or should I try to find an indy?

Found something interesting on that dealer's service record: in Sept '10, the car apparently was certified pre-owned at a cost of $105 labor and $9.23 parts, and the CarFax shows it going on the market then, but apparently it was never sold.

Is the CPO thing a plus in any way?

street rod

Find an Indy.

Marc Gelefsky

+1

MiamiC70

Paid less for my 40th AE 1.5yrs ago with 34k miles.
Just saying...

Sue Esponte

FWIW, I'd probably run far away from any 996 Turbo for $35K. Get a PPI and see if you can get the price down a bit or keep looking if this doesn't feel like the car you really want.

-Eric

Detoxx

Great car, you'll love it

Mfletch

You are close to Sharkwerks. I would give Alex a call for the PPI.