ChrisNineOne1

Hello everyone

I'm about to buy my very first 911 and I'm at a final decision:

Initially I was into a 997.1 4S, but the known IMS issue made up my mind.

As of now I'm about to decide on the following:

1) 997.2 4S, 2010 with 7000 miles. Perfect conditions, immaculate.

2) 991 Base model, 2012 almost 35000 miles, excellent conditions.

3) 997.2, 2012 Base model BLACK EDITION with 51000 miles. Great conditions

The price on all 3 models are basically identical.

Any suggestion would be much appreciate it.

Thank you

TheBlackMamba

Go with option 1, the 2010 997.2 4S. That's the most desirable car out of the three, and has very low miles.

FergusH

I'd modify (or add) your third choice: a 997.2 that's a bit older but also with low miles and a S model. That's what I decided to do and got a 2009, 24km S for a bit over $50k. Personally, I prefer rear wheel drive 911s, mainly for the lower weight and reduced complexity. (I also live in California so don't have to deal with the snow.) I'm curious: what are they asking for the 997.2 4S?

I'd avoid the 991 base. I had one of those and its steering feel, compared to the 997, was very uninspiring.

ATSR

+1

If all three options you mention are around the same price, option 1 is by far the best. 4wd would be a good thing to have since you live in NY.

Fined

I'd take the 4S out of that lot. But mostly because I would not purchase a base model 911.

I didn't get anything out of my drives in 991. But I haven't tried 991 GT3 or 991 GTS. Those could be a lot more fun (and they almost certainly are)

The 2012 991 base model will likely continue to drop in value, beyond where the 4S will. Logically it has to have fallen faster if its now approximately the same cost as a 2010 model 4S. Expect that trend to continue. A 2010 model with only 7k.. I would only buy that car if it were covered by a warranty. Something with a few more miles would be preferable to me.. versus a car thats spent most of its life sitting.

FergusH

I can't speak for the GT3 but I found the 991 GTS steering the same as the base 991. I'm absolutely loving the feel of the steering int he 997.2; it's by far the nicest surprise of the new (to me) car. I think it's even better than the steering in the GT4.

dgjks6

Did you drive all 3? There was a clear difference between a 997 and a 991 to me and the 991 was ruled out for now (until I get older and want a softer ride).

tomc_mets

Option 1, but I'd go ask this in the 991 forum as well. We're biased to 997 around these parts!
But, lower miles and immaculate condition trumps all, especially if you have records and clean PPI...T

Ynot

Option 1 seems to be the best choice.

Airbag997

Option 1 by a landslide IMHO. I was looking at 991's intiially, but they are too refined for me. And the steering in 997.2 is night and day to the 991. Last of the hydraulics.

Tcc1999

I was thinking that same thing - but what makes you think that they're not just a little biased as well?

I think that the OP wants option number one and is just looking for some validation. Just read the descriptors:

#1 = Perfect condition
#2 = Excellent condition
#3 = Great condition

I dunno', all things being equal, who would pick Excellent or Great Condition over Perfect Condition. So, yes, Option #1

tomc_mets

Oh, I'm sure they're biased, but I would want to hear the Devil's advocates (i.e., 991 owners ) before pulling the trigger on something this big...T

Ben Z

Myself I would rule out #3, as I believe the "Black Edition" in the long run won't be worth much more than other 2012 997.2 bases, whereas an S will always maintain a price level above a base, all else being equal.

AWD adds complexity and potential repair cost offering no advantage to me where I live and in my driving needs, and neither does an S.

I happen to prefer the ergos of the 997 over the 991 though, but there's something to be said for getting the newer bodystyle. Mileage depends on how much yearly you plan on driving. If you drive 12K/yr and keep the car for 10 years, a difference of 28K miles isn't going to affect the resale potential that much. Otherwise, it's a major consideration.

For me the kicker would be the transmission, which you didn't list. I'm strictly a 3-pedal-manual guy when it comes to sports cars. Assuming #1 and #2 were both manuals, then the next kicker would be which one has the color and options I like best.

Cysco

4S all day. 997.2 4S is an amazing car (though I'm biased) Even if you don't think you need the 4WD, the wide-body rear on the 4S is awesome.

Depreciation could also be a factor for you. The 991 is going to continue to drop pretty steadily IMO. As will the Black. I wouldn't be surprised at all if in 2-3 years that 4S is worth more than the 991 base.

As for transmission, You can't go wrong with PDK or manual. I absolutely love my PDK as I daily drive my car.

Overall, a low mile 997.2 4S is a great choice.

PapaC4S

The options will make a difference too. Can you describe the cars more or post some links?