dgjks6

I got bit by the IMS to the tune of $11,000 so it is a concern. But it would not stop me from buying another one.

Just me, but I would check the oil, make sure it is black, used a little and not a fresh change. Then in the PPI I would pay for an oil change and examine the oil and filter. If no metal I would not worry.

As far as the interior, 14 year old car is going to show wear. As long as you can live with it I would not worry. Again, if this is THE car, the price is not unreasonable, but if you just want a 911 you could find one cheaper.

Drsms22

looked for a C4 and ended up getting a 2001 c2 Cabriolet with tip Tronic with 34,000 miles on it. It was an excellent condition and passed a ppi nicely. I paid 26 five with a hardtop. Now I am thinking I should've gotten a C4 from 2002 forward that has cupholders and the glove compartment and the new facelift. Try to try to at least get a 2002.

serg911

thanks everyone for their input. very helpful. I ended up passing on the car after inspection. Not too clean, maybe a C grade. Seller wouldn't go lower so passed. See attached estimate from PPI.

high level: need coolant & brake fluid renewal (even though 60k service was recently completed!), front hood shocks, rear shocks (passenger side rear had pretty big leak), all wheels we bent in inside, rear wheel bearings (lots of noise), shaky suspension when driving on highway, large scratch on front windshield, and of course IMS+RMS work. Total esimate $7,500. Mechanic said he would buy car for $18-20k.. disappointing, but hey I'm glad I did this.

well, the search continues! Like you all had mentioned - be patient and wait for that right car!

fmmoto

I ended up passing on the car after inspection.

This car wasn't meant to be and the right car is out there waiting for you to find. Have fun in your continued search!

dgjks6

enjoy the seach. That year, that price rage, you options are limitless

porsche951

If it's real clean optioned the way you like I don't think $26k is out of line. Tell the seller you're concerned about the IMSB not being upgraded as yet and you'll be planning on getting it done ASAP. That should allow you to knock $2k off his asking price. But really once you've looked at 6-8 cars of similar years and price ranges you should begin to get a good feel what a fair price is. I'd rather pay a little more up front and get a car that is optioned the way I like and is in excellent nick in and out.

Ck986

The car shouldn't need a coolant flush. Either he has a leaky tank or there is some other problem. If the tank is yellow it needs replacing. The hood and engine lid shocks are minor and will need replacing on any 10+ year old car. The suspension should not be that bad. It's an old car so it's going to need to be replaced, but it shouldn't be leaking and should be drivable without any sounds. Bent rims are no good and should not be on the car. The wheel bearings go at this age, but many of these are things that a diligent owner should be replacing as they go. I would have passed too.

serg911

Again you all are making me feel much better about my decision...
Not sure if it's charma or not..but the seller had a tire blow out on freeway halfway through his drive home from PPI. I definitely feel bad for the guy..but also felt like this car definitely was not meant to be for me.

ttgroove

No wonder it has been on market for quite some time. Given that information, I agree with $18-20K range.