New Car Thoughts

I've been a Rennlist Member and frequent reader (but not poster) for the past seven months. My interest has been centered on the 996 and the relative merit of various options and equipment, and much of the information on this board has been helpful in that regard. I must say that, in recent weeks, the amount of negativity displayed in this forum has come close to providing a case of buyer's remorse, in that I ordered an '03 996 in mid-July and have been awaiting its arrival with great anticipation. I picked the car up last night- Porsche outperformed their info/order system projections by a full two weeks. C4 Cab, Guards Red (delete hardtop), black full leather w/ sport seats (backs painted red, crests), red console, total alternate stitching (doors, dash, seats, 3-spoke lthr wheel, etc.), Bose w/changer, M030, windstop, self-dim mirrors and rain sensor, xenons, aluminum shifter/brake handle, alum. guages, sills and pipes, flared rockers, 18" Carreras w/painted caps, mats, and (the best!) sport exhaust. The dealer provided clear side markers, and modified the exhaust to eliminate the speed-activated cutout. Interestingly, although I provided them with the very helpful information from this forum about removing the jumper, they chose to simply "disconnect a wire". Seems to work fine. It's been nine years since I sold my '88 911 Coupe (also purchased new), and I've been looking forward to this experience. So far, Porsche has not disappointed. The car is stunning in appearance, to the point that dealer personnel have commented that it's nice to see something that's not silver or gray and looks like a sports car. Not only does it look like one, but with the factory sport exhaust, it sounds like one! Obviously, I'm barely conversant with it at this point, but the fit, finish, and quality appears to be terrific, and driving it, while certainly different than my '88, brings back wonderful memories. I'm certain that Porsche has overcharged me by unbundling the options, I'm appalled by the depreciation that I've no doubt suffered since driving off the lot, and it's my bad luck that they finished something sooner rather than later and I paid the luxury tax that goes away in 45 days. Having said all those things, they delivered the car exactly as ordered, I'm happy with it, and I'm thrilled to be back in the fold. Now if was only May instead of November... Next step is to rejoin PCA. Thanks to all for your help.

Congratulations on your '03 C4 Cab! Sounds beautiful! The drop in used Porsche prices is unpleasant but I don't for a minute think that it is permanent. Where in Illinois do you live? I'm down in Champaign (U of Illinois) and the 911's here are very rare - which is kinda nice.

MRW QUOTE] C4 Cab, Guards Red (delete hardtop), black full leather w/ sport seats (backs painted red, crests), red console, total alternate stitching (doors, dash, seats, 3-spoke lthr wheel, etc.), Bose w/changer, M030, windstop, self-dim mirrors and rain sensor, xenons, aluminum shifter/brake handle, alum. guages, sills and pipes, flared rockers, 18" Carreras w/painted caps, mats, and (the best!) sport exhaust. [/QUOTE] So ya went with the stripped car, huh? Actually, what I'm picturing in my mind looks wonderful, and I can't wait to see it in person. <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" /> I'm glad it's living up to your expectations. Congratulations. But you may soon face an unexpected dilemma: A DE or two, a few autocrosses... and soon you won't have time for golf (GASP!!!) Mike

Mike- Each item seemed like a good idea at the time (and frankly still does). Perfect example of why you shouldn't order a car or build a house. Plans for the house are underway- how about yours? P.S. to Kerry- Chicago.

MRW, Congratulations! What a nicely optioned car. Like you, I have read the posts about the big depreciation, but they just don't connect with me. I ordered my car (an '02TT) like I wanted it, anxiously awaited delivery, enjoyed the wonderful dealership delivery of a brand new unmolested car and now drive it to my hearts content. I don't even think about what the car is worth because I really do not care. I bought it to drive it, look at it in the garage, detail it on Saturdays, attend selected Porsche events, etc. Ordering new is a special experience and life is short - I have no regrets and look forward to doing it again when the next generation turbo comes out. Until then, I will enjoy the wonderful 996TT. Yes, it is an expensive hobby, but worth every penny to me. I just feel fortunate to be able to play and appreciate that fact every day.

MRW, Congratulations on your new 996! It sounds beautiful! Don't let the doomsayers get you down. I frequent many message boards and find that the negative guys seem to dominate. It must be some kind of internet thing! Anyway, glad you are enjoying your Porsche as much as I've been enjoying mine since late July. Although it doesn't seem like it sometimes, there are many more happy Porsche owners than unhappy ones. Live long, love life and may you have long love! Best!

[quote]Originally posted by Dave P: [QB] Don't let the doomsayers get you down. I frequent many message boards and find that the negative guys seem to dominate. It must be some kind of internet thing! QB]<hr></blockquote> Coz those who actually like their cars are out driving 'em