Targa versus 40th

Ok I know we have had many strings discussing these two cars and the discounts involved in the 40th, etc. But one last question for you guys: In three years (about how long I keep cars), do you think that a 2004 Targa will hold better value than a 2004 40th Anniversary Car? Both cars would be bought new for roughly the same price (the Targa being a bit more). As much as I think the value is better in purchasing a 40th now, I still have a soft spot for the Targa (perhaps it's simple the rarity of this car). In any case, any thoughts are really appreciated. And I promise not to start any more posts about the 40th or the Targa

If you only keep cars for roughyl 3 years a pop....have you thought about leasing?

Here a few thoughts from a former LT4 owner (gotta love the good ole' American V8) and a new owner of a 40th Anniversary 911. If you read Excellence, coupes always retain better value than cabs or Targas as they are perceived to have lower maintenance costs (nothing going wrong with the tops) and their NVH levels would be lower as time passes on. One of the main reasons why I traded-in my Box S was that she was getting loose (rattles, wind noise, top would need replacing, etc.) The fact that Targas have not sold that well would mean that you would probably have a harder time finding a possible second owner. The 40th with all its options will still be relatively rare, and a coupe, and if you buy now, your depreciation hit will not be that significant. In closing, as a CPA, I must state that buying a car should not be looked as an investment, and as a Porsche enthusiast, buy the car that you want!

The current batch of 996s is not what I'd think of an investment that will hold its value. With the new model already on the boat and coming this way, the only model that may still hold its value is the TT, since the replacement is still a few years away. As far as Targa to 40th, the 40th has MANY more options standard, and they are currently offering deeeeeep discounts. I'd say 40th, unless you gotta have the glass roof...

If you going to keep the car for three years, I'd suggest leasing the car that you like the most, ejoy it and turn it over for another Porsche.

if at the same price--at worst they wud be the same and best the 40th more because more options and higher MSRP-- just my opinion as a 40th owner Honestly after 3 yrs --I expect to lose $20-$30k --the drive now more than makes up for it---its awesome Mike and his 2 cents

I'd say get the car YOU want... As others have said, none of these cars are really investments, so get the car you'd enjoy and have fun. The Targas sold poorly when re-introduced; but then the market was pretty dead at that time for all 996's, with the exception of the C4S. The interesting thing is that many people seem to have "discovered" the new Targas at about the time Porsche seemed to be giving up on them. I'm probably biased, but I actually believe the Targas will be very popular on the resale market in a few years. If you want a Targa, there's really no substitute. I like the 40th package a lot, and they are a tremendous value right now, so it all comes down to whether you want the Targa roof or not. Having lived with a Targa for a year and a half, I would have a very hard time giving it up. Good luck. Andy '02 Seal grey Targa

Wow thanks guys for the great and fast responses. As for leasing the car, I am not big on leasing since I just simply like to own my cars even with the relatively high turnover (every three years). I probably should know better as a CPA but it's more of an emotional factor for me to own a car than lease it. As for which car I want more, I like them both very much. They are both wonderful cars. Clearly the 40th has a tremendous package at a great discount that looks great! At the end of the day, the value lost on either one of these (even with today's discounts) will still be pretty high in three years so I guess it really does come down to what car I "think" I will like better. Thanks again all