Wife surprised

I've wanted a Porsche for most of my life and now find myself in a position to finally afford a used 996/997. I've put up with used cars and middle of a lower end, basic 2004 Subaru's (Forester) 5-speed for the past 10 years. It was great to get my kids to all their events and haul stuff. It is still a great car @ 130K miles. Never had a problem with it. Maintained it well. Furthermore, living in the capital of bicycling (Portland, OR), I rode my bike to work for over 7 years through the rain and loved doing that. This is my second marriage. I was married the first time to a millionaire's daughter. Net worth when I met her at around $40M. Silver spoon at birth. Seriously... driven to school in a Rolls, and not just any Rolls, one of six ever made. When we divorced I got nothing from that. My first car after divorce was a 1988 Honda Accord with a leaky windshield and smelled like mildew. Seriously, I had no money. Got taken to the cleaners on that relationship. (She still claims she got no money from her dad's estate, and judging by the way she lives, I don't think she did.) Fast forward. Today I've got the money to finally get a nicer car. Recently, my oldest son got married and I was at the wedding with my ex-wife for the first time. I walked my son with my ex down the aisle. My current wife made sure that we would be the best dressed there. We were. That got me thinking about getting a better car. So... when I spring it on her that I want a 911, she says that this came out of nowhere. I never mentioned to her that I wanted a 911. That's not the type of people we are. Only douchebags drive those cars. I had to tell her that very fine people drive these cars; doctors, and lawyers (OK, most lawyers might be douchebags). But a 911 was always something that I wanted. So why she never heard about it before? I took her on a test drive of a 964 Cab and she hated it. Wrong car for her to go with me. Smelled, was loud, and too small for her. I just know she'd like a 996/997. Any words of advice or similar situations that you've had to overcome? Help me out. I can't let this dream die! G.

Well sir, my 2nd 996 has done the trick with my wife and older daughters. 996.2 Cab Tiptronic. Easy for them to drive, I found one that needs nothing. They can enjoy it and so can I. A stock one will not be loud and hopefully not smell. There are lots available, so be choosy. Best of luck!

Women like to shop. It is axiomatic, so get her involved now. It's the wrong time of year for a cars and coffee, but maybe there's a local crew who have a wknd lunch or breakfast. Get out and see a few. Doesn't matter year, or price, or color, or options right now, just get in the flow, and involve her from the start. Maybe find a local 996 owner who is willing to meet and show the car, and give a ride. Shop til you drop. You'll get a feel for what is important to her, and also your desires. For example, I can't stand silver/gray/black cars. They bore me to tears. But - your wife may find the silver elegant as well as sporty. Can she drive a stick? The 996 isn't the worst stick to drive, but it really isn't the best either. Maybe look at some of the auto trans. Look at cabs, and a targa, and maybe a taco wing. My wife cares nothing about cars, but she went with me to look at a few. She likes some of the things I like, but has her own ideas. Good luck, it's fun. Plan to shop for a year, or maybe more. Get what you both want, you'll like it after purchase when you get your list fulfilled.

Quotes source post: 15563916

Great advice!

My wife hates all my fun cars. But what I learned is that it needs to look nice, be clean, NOT loud and everything inside needs to work.

I disarmed my wife by buying her a Macan S three weeks before I sprung on her I wanted a 996. She really didn't have any defense after that. Now we have two Porsches in the garage, and neither one of us seems to mind that at all.

I just didnt tell my wife i bought the car. She isnt really into cars and its for me so i didnt think telling her would be benificial. She still tolerates my douschebagery and even drives in the car with me sometimes. I have to watch the g's on the corners or she will get car sick. Find what u like if u r gonna be the one driving it and also remember its gonna be a 20yr old car so plan on some repair and customization money. Also if u want a good riding car go for a stockish suspension. The more performance u add the more race car it will be.

Im in portland and also deep into bicycles. Im on my third porsche. had an air cooled 911, then a boxster and now a 996. If I could have any P car, it'd be a turbo cab. But I assume that's out of the price range. If you dont need back seats, Id recomend looking at a boxster. Here in the pnw they're a dime a dozen and they offer so much top down performance. You can get a 5spd for 5k around here this time of year. I have two young kiddos so my 996 was a must as I already have a 2 seater. Let me know if you have any questions

Quotes source post: 15563891

First of all, you seem like a nice decent guy that has a unselfish heart. I admire that! Your first marriage seemed to be based on the wrong things in her mind. You see, when a child is raised in a home that coddles to their every material want or desire without instilling a sense of personal responsibility of contributing back to the family or earning things by working for them, you'll find these unhealthy qualities will trickle into a marriage. She sees YOU like she looked to her father. In her mind, she expected the financial coddling to continue without caring how you made it happen. In many cases, a person will make serious sacrifices in order satisfy the indulgences of the other person in the marriage. In some respects, you're doing it to bring peace or favoritism. Everybody wants to be liked. Contributing to this self centered behavior doesn't make the marriage better. This is a downward spiral. It's like a drug. Allowing your current wife "to make sure you were the best dressed" at the wedding was also a mistake in my opinion. You should have showed up as you truly are in your heart. If that meant a $30 suit from the Goodwill, then wear it with dignity. It's better than "wearing the mask" and portraying something of a counterfeit. You wife should love you for who you really are and not portray yourself like the super rich with a faux silk suit and fake Rolex watch! Wear a real Timex with pride my friend! haha! Look I don't mean to preach, but you have it all wrong. People here on Rennlist that own Porsche 996 cars, believe it or not, are probably working class, but enjoy the engineering and performance behind every 911. We're not rich like the stereo type would portray. We are DIYers that love these cars but can't afford to pay the Porsche tax every time the car makes a weird noise. So don't drink the Kool Aid and think Porsche owners are rich snobs or the very elite of society like doctors and lawyers. Believe it or not, you may find that many of us work second jobs and get our hands dirty in order to provide for our families. There are a lot of good people here on Rennlist. Now regarding your future purchase, I encourage you to explain to your wife why you want a 911. Don't try to lie and say this is for her too, but be truthful that this is a lifelong dream. And that you're not wanting to go fork out $150,000 for a new Porsche 992, but you would like to find a resemble 996 or 997 within the budget. Women will never understand a man's love for machinery and we'll never understand 100 pairs of shoes and three closets full of nothing to wear! Find a Porsche that's right for you and your budget and include her in the process of finding a great deal. Don't expect her to like the car. Most women prefer large SUV. Why? Many studies point to the women's need for security which is a well-known quality of a female. When she gets into a small sports car like the 911, she doesn't feel secure. But that's okay. When she's with you, drive slower and don't make it a horrible experience for her or you'll won't own it long. She'll nag until it makes it's way to Carmax! Cheers... and good luck finding a deal!

are you good at wrenching yourself, or are you going to have to pay someone to work on it? If you dont work on the car yourself, these cars are expensive. Being able to afford to buy one of these cars and being able to afford to maintain one of these cars is two different conversations. If you can finally afford to buy a 25k-ish (well sorted out) used car its possible/likely you may not be able to afford to maintain it if you dont do your own wrenching. Sadly ive watched many a new buyer realize this after purchase. Do your research before you jump in with both feet.

My wife went with me when I went looking for my BMW 135i, but 2 1/2 years later when I looked at Porsche 996es she was not interested at all. She doesn’t really like getting into and out of my 996 She preferred driving the BMW when we had to swap cars. She has only driven my 996 twice in almost 1 1/2 years. The clutch (and getting in and out) hurts her knees. But she tolerates it because I really like my 996. She has bought me Hunziker Porsche Art and other Porsche related gifts. We talk about cars she wants when we no longer need the minivan to transport her elderly parents. But until then she is “stuck” with the Honda Odyssey. She will likely want a medium sized SUV. A small sports car just isn’t what she likes. She’s just glad that I didn’t get a Vette. She hates them for some reason. Before I buy something, I normally run the idea past her. I listen to what she thinks, but in the end I buy what I want. I don't have to have her permission. But I do ask her opinion.

Thanks Tex for your words of encouragement. For right now she is happy that I'm going and test driving cars that interest me on the weekends. I think she secretly thinks I'll get it out of my system if I can drive them on the weekends. She did say that she had a hard time getting in and out when she sat in a Cayman in the Porsche dealership. G.

It's been a while since I've wrenched but I did have a few VW Bugs in my past and did a lot of work on them. A lot of the serviceability stuff. That was way before youtube videos. Since then, I've done a lot of other projects with a wrench in my hand, although not around a Porsche. I know and understand how much to budget for repairs and have been researching what goes out when; AOS, Coils, Water Pumps, IMS, RMS, fluid flushes, etc. Thanks for the advice. It is something I'm sure a lot of people fail to comprehend. When I was in college I parked cars at events and noticed very expensive cars with bald tires. The guy could afford to buy the car but didn't have enough to get new tires. I read those signs. G.

Quotes source post: 15563958

Thanks so much for your response. I wasn't saying that the folks here are snobs or that all Porsche owners are of the elite. I have learned so much from the people on here and they have given so much back to me. What I was saying is that her perception is, and so many of us deal with this, that Porsche owners think of themselves as better, elite, privileged. It is a perception that has been written about even on this forum!!! You've given me a lot of good advice and I'm grateful for that. Thanks!

I'm in a similar situation to Tex, my wife doesn't really get the whole "car passion" thing. She will enjoy an occasional short drive on a nice evening with the top down, just like she would go on one or two motorcycle rides with me each year, but I sense this is more for my benefit than her's. When I started looking at cars, she was against it. Then a good friend passed away at a young mid 50s. That kind of was a trigger for her, realizing that you cold compromise your whole life, then loose the whole game without ever doing something for the sheer pleasure (living a dream). She also recognized that I was in a point in my life where I'm working crazy hours and have been forced to give up many of the hobbies I loved. If I had to be on the road for work, I might as well smile when I get in the car. We talked about it and made a few compromises. First, if I was going to buy a sports car, it had to have 4 seats. Second it had to be a convertible. With those two "allowances" and a tight budget, I was given the nod, and haven't looked back. Yes, I hear you about the whole "Porsche perception" thing. I had a little of it too, but have found that this is a great community and even though I may not be in the tax bracket of many members here, or of local PCA members, that I have been accepted with open arms and have developed some great friendships. Some top notch people. I am self conscious about being seen in my car however, I must admit. This is where I may separate a bit from where you are. Rather than being the best dressed at the wedding, I would rather be seen as the average guy in the well pressed and worn cheap suit. In an ideal world, my car would look like a mid 90's minivan to everyone else.

Interesting topic. My wife "allowed" me to get our 996, and really liked the car but just wasn't a car person, and thought having 4 cars for 3 drivers was a bit over the top... Fast foward a couple years of ownership, and my wife ABSOLUTELY LOVES our Porsche. She is dealing with some difficult aging parent issues, and when she has to go she always takes the Porsche... She quotes all of the time that "It's hard to be sad when i'm driving the Porsche" so to me, it was one of the best purchases of my life!

Quotes source post: 15564438

Ok, I�m getting a lot of heat for this statement, but I am talking about a new sport coat, shirt and tie. And my wife didn�t want me going in my old black suit. She didn�t want me looking like I was going to a funeral. My son got married at a camp ground on Mt. Hood.

Just do it! Fulfill your dream as I did a few months ago...Just make sure you have some reserve funds for the unexpected. Biggest mistake I made was buying a non running 996 (only way I could afford one) for $4K without telling my wife. It was a rare deal I couldn't pass up! But my wife gets it and once I got the new motor installed and took her for a ride it was all water under the bridge. Like you I only maintained early VW's (a long time ago) and am not a mechanic but am mechanically inclined and these cars for the most part are very DYI friendly. Rennlist is a great community and I couldn't have done it without you all!

I guess I am one of the lucky ones. My "wife" (girlfriend of 16yrs) was the one who actually wanted a 911. She was a little hesitant about a few things, but once we looked at a few, and didn't compromise on what she wanted in the car it made it easy. WHITE CONVERtABLE WITHOUT TAN INTERIOR. (yeah, that was easy lmao. they all have tan!) Then when we got it she didn't know how to drive a standard so that was frustrating for her. Hindsight if we bought an auto this would have been a completely seamless move. The standard almost had her wanting to sell it. Now she wants other Porsches. I would find the cleanest examples of these cars and take her to see those. Not sure your budget, but if you are taking her to see Boxsters that are 8k with 130k miles on them she will hate these cars. But when they are in good shape, they are a thing of beauty!

We bought a 996 for her. It was to be her toy and daily driver during the warm months. Car is hers and she decides what mods to do and such. She's very content with it. She's aleays had a new vehicle every few years, but always something practical. This is her first toy car and she views it completely different than other cars she has had. It was her birthday present last year, so I am now good for the next 10 years ...

Here is my take on it, if you are financially stable you should do whatever you want. If this isn't putting a hardship on your family then it should not matter. My wife is very understanding of my hobbies and most of the time she is the one saying 'yeah go for it.' She trusts me enough to make the right decision if for some reason we get into financial trouble she knows I would sell it right away.

Just tell her, "Look woman, I am the man and I will spend the money on what I want!!!" That should solve your issue. Give it a try and report back how it worked out.

Quotes source post: 15565098

Love it... That would solve one problem for me but might create some other problems. I've read some articles about several approaches. 1. Show up with the car without discussing it (your suggestion). 2. Buy your spouse something of equal or greater value before the fact 3. Reason with your spouse about your desire 4. Get his/her involved in the test drive, get them excited about it. I've got the 3, and 4, route, and have done some of 2. Now that our finances are shared, they weren't for a long time in our marriage, for various reasons, going option 1, might have repercussions the other way too. Heck, it is her money too and she could just show up with something of greater value without asking. Option 1 could definitely backfire.

Im joking, I am not suggesting you buy it without her involvement lol. She will never like it if you do that. Educate her as to why you want it, what the game plan would be if it came to a point it was unpractical or un affordable etc. I involve my woman in all decisions not because I have to, but because it is whats right. This isn't 1955 when the man makes the rules. Talk to her, learn hear hesitations and have viable reasons to combat them. It could take time, work it slow.

My story is like JTT's....my wife is a nice tight fisted CT Yankee (I love that about her, lol) and was against spending on an "expensive" car. A 911 had been a dream of mine since I was a kid (ok, mebbe my first love was the Lotus Esprit....I got to sit in the one used in "The Spy Who Loved Me" with Roger Moore when they were filming it in Sardinia when I was a kid and my Dad was stationed there). However, like JTT, I bust my ****, I travel a ton overseas and even she agreed that life is too short not to have a grin on yer face from time to time. Her requirements were similar...it had to be a cab and a stick (she insists on stick and hates that I've recently made her move over to my automatic G37x when her old Mazda 3 was passed on to a relative) and couldn't be yellow or red. I also have to let her drive it unaccompanied on occasion, lol. She also wanted me to get rid of my Harley, but I said hell no. I'm not a rich guy, I don't have the disposable income to have 2 of them in my driveway. I'd involve her in the process if she is interested, for sure. I think anyone doing "Option 1" is making a big mistake. I don't think number 2 is right either....not just doing it so you can say "hey, look, I just got you x so now I get y". If SHE decides she wants a splurge item, fine, work with her on it. I'll admit that buying my Roadking new was one of the reasons I didn't fight too hard about getting a kitchen overhaul at the house, lol, but I sure as Shiite wasn't gonna offer a kitchen rehab.

I love my wife even more reading these replies.

I had collector cars before I got married. My wife knew what she was getting into before we got hitched. I keep the investment fairly low, and I always make money on my vintage cars, except maybe one or two. I just bought another 928 but shouldn't have. I'll make at least $10k on it when I sell, so it's hard for her to complain too much unless I spend time working on them that takes away from other value time. So far, so good.

Quotes source post: 15565833

^^^THIS^^^^

I think you just ask her to be honest and tell you what's really bothering her about it. It's hard to imagine something that tangential as annoying people having the same car as the issue. I'm sure there's disagreeable people that live in your neighborhood, use the same types of appliances, and wear nice sport coats and ties ;-)

As long as your wife has something of her own to drive and you or she drive something comfortable for her when you're together, you should drive what you like. My basic rule is that the woman always has the more modern and/or reliable vehicle, unless she chooses otherwise, and it is always garaged, even if my dd sits in the rain. My current spousal equivalent does not really enjoy my 911, but puts up with it because, among other things, I gave up my MB sedan to buy a QX80 to tow her Airstream. It may also have something to do with the fact that I told her the story of how, between marriages, I built a Lotus 7 knockoff that I thoroughly enjoyed. My second wife did not, and occasionally gave me grief about it. I finally got fed up with the complaints, and told her: "I had the car before I had you and, if I have to choose between the two, I'm not sure which way I'd go." I never heard about the car again, and the marriage lasted until her death.

Quotes source post: 15564715

Sorry, my comment was not intended as a criticism at all. My apologies if it came off that way. Nothing wrong with appreciating nice things and showing off once in a while God knows I did lots of it in my younger days . I'm just at a pointing my life where I actively try to fly under the radar, when possible...but still appreciate nice things, and like to be around them.

I've conditioned my wife to accept anything that shows up in the driveway. Start with cheap cars, and rotate them out after a few months. Once you have a bunch coming or going, she will start to lose track of what is what. Once she starts saying things like "Whose car is that?" and "do we own this?" it is time to strike and buy your dream ride. Remote storage helps too. Godspeed, OP.

Quotes source post: 15566529

Exactly! My wife took a trip to Thailand a while back. While she was away, I bought a vintage car. We had an interesting email exchange: me; I bought a car yesterday. her; What is it? me; It's red. her; Oh no... what KIND of car? me; It came from Italy, a long time ago. her; It better not be a Ferrari. me; How's the weather and your family? Trip going well? her; Did you buy a FERRARI?!?!? me; Well, yes, kind of - but it's a small one. Barely a Ferrari. Her; You are a dead man. Me; Have a safe trip, see you soon! But, she got to like the car eventually. We took some nice trips in it, and so far it's gone up in value. I figured with her having a nice 3 week vacation in a warm sunny place, I should be off the hook. It kinda worked, and we still have the Ferrari.

My gamble has paid off as the wifey insist on parking in the driveway and the 996 gets garaged...Also, black being her favorite car color helps. These are fantastic cars for the money!

I discussed the 911 prior to purchase with my wife. She understood that she didn't have the final say, but had a say. She drives it, but doesn't love it. She loves it for me, probably because it gives me something to focus and obsess over. Rather than bikes or watches or whatever I am obsessing over at the time.

My wife bought me my 987 and put up with my 914 that I had before we got married. I kept it in my divorce. She knew I had a car thing when we got married. I still have both. If any of my sons got married and my ex wife was there, she'd buy me a new suit AND the 997. You only live once and hopefully only married twice.

Quotes source post: 15564301

I'm a pretty calm easy going guy, not looking for any attention, but when someone walks up and asks what model of beetle it is, that just hits me in my jockey jewels. I then go full ninja. Get my drift?

Most douchebags drive BMW's. As for 996 I think all the douchebags have long left and are driving 993 or 997s' or something newer

Quotes source post: 15567720

What's that old saying about forgiveness versus permission? Love to own a Ferrari. My wife has drawn the line at no Corvette, but I may test that. She can't possibly be any more upset about a 'vette that she was about the 1982 Ford Econoline van with a bucket on the roof (cable tv style - needed to trim some trees).

Quotes source post: 15567720

Very Cool!

I am one of the lucky husbands, on our 35th wedding anniversary(2013) wife and I decided to up grade our 740il to 335I hard top convertible so we special ordered one for her with all the bells and weasels on 3/15/13. She also thought its time for me to have my dream car to in return so she and I started looking for my 911 and she helped in the proses and bought me my first 911 C2 6 speed convertible white with gray on 4/15/13 yes Tax day and she drive it on and off since then . She had delivery of her BMW on our actual anniversary date 5/14/2013. Since then We up graded her from 2013 to 2016 M4 hard top convertible also special ordered , Mean while We have been looking to up grad mine to clean stock 991 S convertible hopefully VERY soon .

My wife likes my car but hate's to go anywhere in it. Just another reason to own one.

Lots of great advice in here! My wife loves all the collector cars (have a classic dealership), but not any the 911s. She only drives supercharged AMG V8s, and can't understand why I'd have 911s with sixes lol..

Really great thread. Very helpful to us that are getting ready to purchase our first car P-car. I'm enjoying reading all of your stories. Please keep them coming. BTW, I should've titled this thread, "Spouse Surprised" since I know that there are many women P-car owners and drivers out there. Sorry about the error on my part. Gary

I bought my first 911 last year and my wife just hates it. She hates any kind of performance car. She drives a Saturn Vue and swears she will keep it forever, so offering her something newer doesn't work. Oh well, I guess there are going to be times I'm going to do things that won't make her happy!!

Quotes source post: 15571028

Update: Had a discussion with my spouse today while at work and she said to me, "If something happened to you (died today) and it was me that stood in your way from experiencing your dream, I don't think I could live with that. I would want you to have it!" Thanks to all of you and your kind words, I told her that, "I appreciated her saying that, and it would make my life so much more complete to know that I could give her something that she has always wanted, if I knew that it would bring a smile to her face." She told me that she is scared that driving a P-car would kill me because I would drive it too fast. So... Is there someway to promise that you won't drive too fast when that is in fact what these cars are designed for?

Do have a propensity for recklessness, or lack of judgment in other aspects of your life? Free climber? Hang gliding? Heavy drink/smoke? Unprotected sex with hookers? PCNA sponsors guest days at many tracks around the country. If you want a bit of fast driving, sign up for one of their training sessions. Spirited driving in a well designed car can be fairly safe. Of course, one could always round the bend and see a herd of Elk in a Buick stationwagon as well.

Quotes source post: 15571445

I like the idea of a track day but let's be real Accords come with the same horsepower as the 996. Show her that 300 hp is pretty standard these days. You don't have to have a Porsche to do something stupid in your car.

I'm single so I buy whatever I want. My girlfriend thinks my cars are cool but doesn't necessarily like riding in them. Where you married guys have it over me is that I won't have anyone to change my diaper or wipe the drool off my chin when I get old.

Quotes source post: 15571549

The only car accidents I've been in have been someone running a red light and t-boning me, and as a passenger in a 1972 Saab that hydro-planed into the rear of another car. Not a free climber or hang glider. Don't drink or smoke, and haven't frequented any hookers. Gosh, I sound boring! In fact, when I go to the doctor's office and they ask about my health history, it's boring too. No diseases, no operations, no medications, no allergies... I do have a pulse though. Spouse asked if she wanted to learn to fly an airplane and take flying lessons, would I support her? I told her I would love that, and we could buy a plane too! (She hates to fly in a commercial jet, but would definitely support her doing this.) BTW, my son is a climber but he doesn't free climb outdoors. Not sure I want to suggest to her that I would love to take in a track day. She's already offered to buy me a few laps at the local track using a third-party car. You know those Groupon deals where you can do 3 laps in a 911, Ferrari, or Lambo? Looked into the HP on a Camry and Accord and much to my surprise they do come close. Appreciate all the suggestions. At this point, I think she's waiting for me to come home with the car, and I'm at the point of finding the right car for me. Thanks for all of your suggestions. I really think we are getting closer. G.

Quotes source post: 15571732

She looks pretty happy here!

Quotes source post: 15571733

Sounds like you're on the way. Start shopping TOGETHER. Make it a once a week thing, go look at one or two cars, get in the flow. BTW I've been a pilot for +40 years. I fly a Beech Bonanza, and I will tell you honestly the freedom of flight in your own plane, and the challenge of getting and maintaining flying proficiency is one of the greatest pleasures I've had. Yes, I did fly right between those two columns in Monument Valley.

Quotes source post: 15571445

To be fair, compared to modern cars, the 996 is not a crazy fast car as in was back in the early 2000s. Hell, a new Honda civic type R is faster in everything except top speed; it stops shorter, and can pull over 1 G on a skid pad and is faster around the Nurburgring by over 30 seconds. The 996 isnt a death trap unless you just do something stupid.

My wife is the one who found my car.

I used to have a 928. The wife loved driving it (it was an automatic), loved the way it looked and generally didn't care when I bought parts. However, the list of things it needed kept growing, in inverse proportion to my motivation to do anything, especially after I tore my meniscus taking the rear calipers off to rebuild them. The biggest job that I couldn't stop thinking about was the timing belt, and I just could not get up the motivation to do it, nor pay someone else to do it. So one night, after a couple beers I just came out with, "I am going to sell the 928, buy a more recent 911 with a stick, and drive it across country." To her credit she just said, "uh.....ok?" It probably helps that rarely do I spend anything on myself. But later I worked out the numbers, which were better than I thought they'd be originally because I paid next to nothing for the 928 and they seem to be appreciating. So, I went through with it. The hardest part was selling the 928. I am generally not a nostalgic person, but that was my first "fun" car. However, driving this beast from Cali to NJ was one of the best things I'd ever done. Anyway, wife hates the new car. She hasn't driven a manual in years and sees that I'm a little nervous about her "re-learning" on my favorite car ever (I burn out the clutch enough). She liked the way the 928 looked (especially the pop up headlights). She doesn't care that the 928 was slow. I guess the point is, I want very little. She saw that I really wanted this, so she at least tolerated it. I wished she liked it more but it's obviously something that makes me very happy, so I assume she sees some value in me not being so grumpy all the time.

Quotes source post: 15571445

Let me say this: This is the most competent automobile I've ever owned. By far. Sure, it's quick accelerating. It's fast around curves. It'll stop very quickly. It has a top speed that most of us will never see. But all these things make it safe and competent when driven normally. There are a lot of electronic nannies available on modern cars of all makes, models, and price points. But how many of them are truly as competent as a 996? If you had to avoid a deer, what would you rather be in, a 996 or a recent Accord (or similar)? I know my answer. You can promise that you won't drive too fast, but I'd try and stress the competence of these cars.

Quotes source post: 15573059

Deer? Try if you had to avoid an Accord. Those things jump out of no where.

Quotes source post: 15571733

Interesting she should bring that up, I got my PPL last year. It was one of the most incredibly fulfilling journeys I have ever taken. My wife loves flying with me also, though she was a bit nervous when her and the kids gave me the gift certificate for my introductory flight. Now we fly together regularly. I do lots of things people consider dangerous. I fly, I have fast boats, I race a dirt sprint car on a frozen pond in the winter, I ride a motorcycle, and yes I now have a Porsche. But, I also own a business, don't drink, try my best to balance work, fun, and family, and do everything I can to be a good husband and father. I make decisions that are typically well thought out and sound (at least in my mind) and she recognizes that. Could I get killed doing any of those things? Absolutely! Or I could get killed standing under a customers car working on it, or get hit walking down the road to the Post Office, or my worst fear of all, get sick and just have my body give up on this journey prematurely. The older we get the more opportunities we seem to have of watching people leaving too soon, and missing out on doing all those things they said they would like to do someday. Neither her nor I want to leave with a bunch of those "somedays" on the table still. Today, she is in Paris with a friend. It was a totally unexpected trip she was able to arrange a month or so back. When she brought it up I told her I think she should do it as soon as she could. Your wife sounds like she gets it, and so do you. Go buy her an introductory flight and encourage the heck out of her if she wants to go through with getting her ticket. Sounds like she is ready to help you fulfill your dream of getting a Porsche also. Keep supporting each other and enjoy the adventure together, the memories from these journeys are priceless.

I have told my wife this and we both believe it and it is the foundation of our marriage: I would never insist on something I know you don't believe in. This includes each other. Hope that helps.

Quotes source post: 15573059

Last night I casually mentioned that there are Honda Civics on the market with more power than a 911. She is coming around to it now and is probably wondering when I'll show up with it now. I think she is now expecting to see a 911 in the driveway. I was traveling on business the last few days and rented a car at the airport to get home and to my office the next day. Hertz rents out 911's from time to time and I told my wife that I thought about renting one and parking it in the driveway to make her think it was mine. We had a good laugh. I'm thinking she now knows it is inevitable.

My 996 is my first Porsche. When the opportunity came up to buy a 996 from the estate of a friend's brother, she looked at me sideways and said "no way"... then in her second breath was "How much does a car like that cost anyhow?". I responded "Well, they are asking 30K but I think it's worth less than that". Her response? "Oh, that's not that much". At that point I figured I had permission. And started looking for the right car in earnest. When she said "Find out how much our insurance is going to increase before you do anything stupid" I knew that it was a done deal.

Quotes source post: 15573671

That's an awesome story! Looks like you got a 40th Anniversary Edition 996? Is that a 2004 with the X51 power option? How much did it increase your insurance? I think I'm looking at about $75 per month in addition to what I'm paying now, including my home, income property, and two cars, all with the same insurance agency. Your wife sounds like a very reasonable person. You lucked out. Mine is coming around. Does she drive your 911?

Adding our Porsche to the insurance raised it just about $38/mo. This is for full coverage. That being said its billed as a "3rd vehicle, recreational" what ever that means. There is not restriction on when and how we can use it unlike the "antique insurance". They just assume that we will not be using it gull time because I have 3 other cars in the household.

It's kind of eye-opening, reading all these family stories. It's not really about the car we buy, or the plane, or boat, or what we do for leisure, it's about the strength of the bond with our SO. Collectively, 911 owners tend to show pretty clear traits of success, reliance, and overall power/results in business, and family. We also seem to have spouses who think enough of THEIR partner that they get that part of our need to walk a little on the wild side. Upper socio-economic groups like this and pilot forums let me know it's not all bad, like I was worried about back as a single guy.

Quotes source post: 15573845

Find the right woman, one who has the same goals and likes and you will never feel the "trap of commitment". I couldn't be happier, she will pretty much stand behind anything I do, in turn that makes me want to treat her better than most men treat their S.O. because I wouldn't want to lose her. Too many of my friends can't sneeze without permission from their wives. Leads them to do all kinds of **** behind their backs. Unacceptable in my eyes. Most my friends want to go out without their wives drinking, watching the game etc, I want her to come because we have more fun together than apart. Now dont get me wrong, we do a lot apart because everyone needs space too.

Quotes source post: 15573573

I told my wife I was thinking of a ZL1 Camaro (650 hp). That made it easier to accept a Porsche.

Glad you got to the real reason. 300 horse isn't very much these days. My wife's station wagon has that. Honda Accords, Camry's, and minivans are reaching those numbers. If you've got a heavy foot, there's a lot of places to get in trouble these days. The Porsche actually helps with good brakes and handling. Happy hunting! You just have to figure out a way to hide the running costs now haha.

My girlfriend is a "car gal", growing up in England and driving primarily stick cars her whole life. We enjoy car shows and auctions regularly. She saw the rear of an Audi R8 at a recent event and fell in love with the look. She currently drives a BMW 228i. But, she did not like the ride and engine noise in my previous 06 C2S Cab. I plan to get another P-Car this year but will probably spend way less time in it with her than I would like. Considering other cars, but I keep coming back to the 911. She won't be upset at all though if I get one though.

Quotes source post: 15573755

Yes, it's a 40AE and I love it! All 40AEs (only offered in 2004) included X51, sports suspension (variant of M030), limited slip diff, ligt weight wheels, and 2 front radiators from the C4S (including Turbo/C4S nose), GT3 side skirts and some other nice but cosmetic upgrades. My insurance increased by $100/month but I carry higher limits and a personal umbrella and have two young adult children on our policy. My wife is awesome, I agree, and thank you.

Oh, and she's free to drive it but she hasn't. I think she's scared to (she hasn't driven a stick since the early 90's)

I started this hunt thinking I wanted a 930 or 964. I test drove a few and couldn't get used to the floor pedals again. I drove VW Bugs back in college but its been a while now. Then I thought about AC and how that would be nice to have so I've settled on the 996 and 997.

Quotes source post: 15574192

The 996 (non-Turbo and not GTx) was offered in so many configurations that there is not a single �best�. But as a biased owner I�d submit that the 40AE is a great combination of performance options plus some cosmetic options and that many of them have been well preserved. In return you are optioned into a single color combination. They are a lot of fun however.

Quotes source post: 15573958

Try a non-Cab. Open top vehicles are a complete different experience. Worth a try anyhow.

Quotes source post: 15574192

There's a nice AE being sold in Kentucky (I think) for $21K which is a great deal FWIW!

Quotes source post: 15575069

Do you have a link? Is it on this site?

Something is wrong with the database. I answered this a different day. I wasn�t even awake at this time these two posts of mine indicate.

Hi Gary, would you by chance be a street photographer? If so, we have run into each other over the years AND I can give you decent advice on your questions!

Quotes source post: 15577346

Hey Andy... that would be me. Tell me where we've met? Looks like you drive Caymans? Let's take it off line. Looks like you're in Michigan?

Sent you pm .

Gary, I am in Portland area too. Hope you find your way into a 911, but I�d involve the wife. My story. I�ll keep it brief. Two years ago, with support from my wife I bought an Audi TTS. Gateway drug. 8 months later, I sold it back and ordered a TTRS (I should have just gone top-of-the-line to begin with). But. Never told wifee... I thought it would be fun, and I was curious whether she would notice the red trim around the vents, and the extra two buttons on the steering wheel. But, Audi TTRS got stuck in port, had an extended delay. So I bailed and bought the �dream� 911. My wife loves the 911. It makes our drives about �us�. Not a kid interference thing. I never thought she�d be telling me to put the loud exhaust on. But, she likey. We go to wineries in the Gorge. Get a white one. We want to see your B&W photos of it. :-)

Quotes source post: 15578124

Oh, she's involved. It keeps coming up in conversation. I've been vacillating back and forth right now between a Cayman S and a base level 911 of the '07 vintage. I really like the 997 body over the 991, and while I do have the liquid funds for the 991 don't like the style of it as much. Your note pushes me back toward the 911 camp. I've read that the mid-engines are a lot harder for DIY. I've seen a few white and black examples and don't think they show off the curves well enough... I might have to go with 18% grey or seal grey. I am not a fan of the arctic silver with black interior.

GT Silver does look good b&w!

Quotes source post: 15578311

If you don�t need the rear seats, I�d take a strong look at a Cayman... Also, regarding driving too fast and getting hurt, I recommend taking some performance/safety DE (Driver Education) classes or events. First of all, it�s a blast. Secondly, you get to drive fast in a controlled environment (more controlled and safer than the street anyway). Make sure you get Lockton insurance for the car those days. Third, you will meet great people. Fourth, you will learn a ton and learn the safest way around your car, which is to say, know the limits and how to handle the car at the limits, which is the best way to get your butt out of trouble . Good luck on the hunt. Oh, by the way, if you haven�t checked out Turo, I recommend it. You can rent all sorts of cars for a day or weekend

Quotes source post: 15582306

I've never been at fault in an accident; women plowed through an intersection/ran red light, and have had that conversation with my wife... so, I'm a safe driver and made that point. But taking a class would put her mind at ease.Great suggestions. I love it. I checked out Turo before but have forgotten about that option. Thanks, Gary

Quotes source post: 15583009

You aren't going to get the car and just start to drive like an A-Hole lol. Maybe goose it occasionally but I actually tend to drive slower than my other cars and just take in the fun of the car.