red996

Here's what I did when I was once in your situation. I thought long and hard about getting a base boxster. Is there any particular reason why you want a boxster? I waited til I could afford a 911. Boxster is just not for me. There are plenty of other great cars in the 35k price range. I might get banned for saying this but, I drove a 2005 Corvette when they first came out and what a great car. I decided that after a 95 corvette and a 03 corvette, I wanted something different. That and the design of the exterior of the C6 corvette sucks. But, it's a blast to drive, and I think you can pickup a really clean C6 Corvette for about 35k now. Have you considered other brands, or other Porsche models?

IXLR8

In what respect? I'm talking about street use.

As for me, the 997 just didn't give me that feeling. It felt like a luxury sports car...not a sports car. I was quite surprised and disappointed that I felt that way after the test drive.

But newer isn't always better. Look at the BMW GS line of motorcycles for example.

Ronnienorthyork

This is a reply to red996 who asked me if i'm sure i want a boxster.....?!? well not really, my favorite all time porsche car is the porsche targa but its out of my price range at the moment.
But i do know that i want a porsche and soon i grew up with that image ....

IXLR8

Patience...I waited 42 years for my 911.

Better late than never.

ronnie993tt

Holy crap!! No one told me they were expensive to run! Wanna buy a 993tt??

Nine11

Wait to get what you want. The classic Carrera's, 964's, 993's are great cars with the handbuilt quality that Porsche is known for. A true driver's car. Like others have said, purchase price is just one aspect of the Porsche ownership experience, if you neglect it and strain to 'take care of it' as it may require some money to keep it running, it could ruin your Porsche experience. I like the legendary air cooled cars vs the water pumpers, and 35K can get you into a Carrera or a 964 targa. It would also leave you with a safety net that can be used for maintenance or mods.

Nine11

They can be. I've had a $4400 bill to replace a rear blower, and a new 993 CCU to just $200 for an oil change. Yearly running costs do vary. Sh*t happens, and it comes with the territory. These things aren't Civics. Parts can be expensive and labour for a Porsche specialist is going to cost a bit more. Newer water pumpers can be just as expensive if not more so....then comes mods.

wurthguy

As someone who looking to buy his first Porsche I have watched this post with interest. I don't think you can get too much advice when looking to get into a Porsche. I have spoke to owners and tech's and everyone seems to say buy the best car you can afford. In my case my $10K (lol) budget has climbed to $20K in a hurry. I just want a decent '87/88 911and have found the pricing to be all over the map. I also find that a lot of the cars seem to have a some sort of a story that makes them unattractive.... oh well hopefully patience will be rewarded. If anyone has a lead let me know, and Happy New Year !!

IXLR8

A lot also depends on your level of expertise when it comes to mechanical work.

I'm not worried about the cost of a clutch job being one capable of doing everything from A to Z myself; someone on a budget who has to take it to a dealer, might.

Nine11

Buying the best car you can afford is good advice. Look for the basics, good PPI, service history and constantly maintained properly. Talk to the shop that maintains it and get some insight there. Also look for a car that suits your ownership expectations, want a garage queen, get a low mileage car. Want a fun driver, get a good car that's well maintained and driven by an enthusiast.

Nine11

35K gets you lots of other good solid performance cars like the Corvette or an M3 etc. But at the end of the day, if you want a Porsche, you want a Porsche. There is no substitute.

Ronnienorthyork

i believe that i'm way over my head guys, i just want something reliable not big bills and have tea with a porsche mechanic every week....

Nine11

Nobody wants to scare you, but it's a plan for the worst, hope for the best mindset.

I suggest getting what you want when you can comfortably afford it. A $15k to $20k Carrera Targa can be a good solid 911.

AM993

How about this one:
http://www.autotrader.ca/used_cars_C...ributes=photos,,

All service history, brand new engine with warranty, and most likely one of the cheapest 911 models in terms of maintenance. Not a Targa though, but within your budget.

IXLR8

You might also want to check with your insurance company.

If it is financed, you'll need full coverage. $$$$$