Car decision question

I just sold my 1998 993 cab and am trying to evaluate three 911 options (money is a consideration but not a deal killer) 2002 3x black carerra cab $50k (i know its a wholesale price) 2003 c4s Cab $85's 2005 997 Carerra S (New) $100k and a Sept delivery I am looking for an everyday car that I can drive and keep for a while. Any opinions and why would be appreciated

Ron - Personally, I would opt for the 997 S. I bought an '04 996 C2 4 months ago and I love it. I have also driven a 997 and I think it is even better than the 996... a little more sophisticated. I would suggest you drive a 996 C4S cab and 997 (S if you can find one). That will be your best indiacator.

If you plan on driving in winter in CT and don't have snow tires, C4 is a must. However, I'd get snow tires if any snow driving is involved and that won't require AWD anymore. Between 996 and 997 C2, you are talking about 1/2 the price (assuming they are both cabs). The 996 02 is a steal at $50k if low mi. For the money, I'd get 996 cab but only if you don't mind black which requires high maintenance and shows all imperfections. Make sure you get PPI and look at warranty records for RMS/tranny issue by calling dealer. If it has a history of RMS, stay away.

The 997 with the 3.8l and PASM is a tough one to pass up from a performance standpoint.........

IMO, the C4S is the best value in the Porsche lineup... and is killer looking Rob

If you are going to spend those kind of $$, why don't you look at an '01-'02 turbo. You get a LOT more power, a better engine (no RMS issues) and you don't have to worry about the initial depreciation hit if you get a 997. If you can push it a little into the low $100's, you might even find a turbo cab.

The first production 996 Turbo cab was 2005, and it's more than low 100's that's for sure.

GT3!

Its a tough choice, this is where my head is at right now, I can get the '02 Cab (it was a friends car that is coming off lease and is very clean) for a wholse sale value. If I buy that, I can enjoy a 911 for another year or so and really figure out if I want the C4S cab or 997S (both of which require commiting at least $85-100k which, at least for me, is not a quick decision). I can also figure out how the C4S cab value moves and also I would imagine the 997S cab has to become more available and price flexible (not by much but still, the principle of paying sticker has a funny feeling to it) I like the turbo idea, never really thought about it but i guess if you are in the $100k neighborhood, why not think about it at least. The nice thing about the '02 cab is the glass window, glove box, and the 320HP. Not a bad car to pass a year with and not lose any money. I figure the '02 cab will sell for about $55-57 next year, at least, which should be a break even for me 1 year later.

I just saw somewhere else on the board that a 997 C4S Cab will come out next year??!! Anyone have any pics or links, this definitely adds a new complexity to my thought process !!

997 C4S has been announced. There are pics on porsche.com Presume tha cab is to follow.

There are 03 turbo cabs and can be found in the 110K area. I would go for the 02 cab. A great value and you can get rid of it later for min depreciation.

Neil, This is from the press release: Porsche announced in July of 2003 that it would produce the first 911 Turbo Cabriolet since 1989. Arriving at Porsche dealerships in the fall, the 2004 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet is based on the existing Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe, incorporating the Coupe's engine, body structure, four-wheel drive system, chassis, and suspension and brake systems Perhaps they released the Turbo Cab earlier over seas? Rob

I would not get any of those cars. Get a GT3 or TT. Better motors, brakes, suspension, etc.

Rob, Sorry you are correct I was confused. When I was shopping for my car I thought I was shown one but it must have been a 2004. My mistake.

i really hope you didn't honestly think we would be able to help in a decision like that so i suggest you blow the budget and buy all 3. If that doesn't work get the C4S and I know you will be pinching yourself on that first ski drive into Vermont.

Cpa4S, is that you playing in the snow. Do you have the C4S Cab or hardtop? Tip or 6-speed? What types of snow do you put on? How does it work going up hills in the snow? and all the other snow questions... The 4 is definitely a factor in my choice. Like I said, i sold my 993 Cab but also have a M3 Cab. Trying to make my life simpler with only 1 car, but want to have it all. Summer & winter use. Someone in a different post said that the 997S Cab was not worth the $15-20k differance from the point of view of extras (body style aside), you get 25 more HP but 320 is also nice. This may be a valid economic point because $15-20k is $15-20k.