New sports car, 25-27K

[Skiddley]

Hey,

It's been aaaages since I've been on here, had to rack my brains for my password

So, I have a 2005 Porsche Boxster S, in decent condition. And I'm looking to change it this Summer. I haven't had a chance to really look around at alternatives yet, and haven't really considered anything other than another Porsche so far.

Been offered a nice 3.4ltr 2008 (987S.1) Sport Edition, very well spec'd, well in budget, and I know its history. I don't really like the new DFI engines in the 2nd gen 987s, plus my budget would only stretch to a 2.9, and I'd only consider a 3.4, so 2009+ is not an option.

997s are out on the grounds that to be in budget, it'd be an older 2005\2006 model with miles under it's belt.

Before I go with this default option, are there any alternative marques which I'm overlooking?

Thanks

 

[Skiddley]

I know the M3 is a great car in my head, I just don't think it's for me. It's never something that's appealed to me in the least.

As for the 997, I love them, but condition is important to me. A 2005 car with high mileage would feel like retrograde step compared to a newer, low-mileage specced up Boxster S. Plus, I think a C2S in good condition would push the budget somewhat, leaving me exposed to the liklihood of expensive repairs that are common at that age (rads\condensers\clutch\PASM etc).

 

[Skiddley]

Is your current car not already a 987?

Yes.

 

[Skiddley]

What's the colour/mileage/spec of yours/the one you've been offered?

What the driver behind the change?

For interest, what's wrong with the DFI engines in the Gen2?

Artic Silver (bit boring)/35K - spec is heavy, sport ed options, PASM, sports seats, sports exhaust, half-leather, bose, sports chrono+, nav etc etc..

As for the DFI engines - they just don't sound very good. Even with the sports exhaust. I know they're slightly more powerful, and more economical, but this is a car I'm buying with my heart, rather then my head

What about a cayman?
http://pistonheads.com/sales/2389985.htm

I actually don't like the way they look. Better handling car (driven a few), but no. I did consider it.

I think a 997 would be a great choice, I wouldn't be worried, plenty of nice low miles 2005 cars around.

I'll look into it. I just don't think I'll find what I want for my budget.

I've been looking at a few more unusual boxsters, more individual colours, lower miles. About to buy a house too, so I suspect this will be my last change for a while....this one is a keeper so I want to get it right.

I just cant see how £25k upgrades you from a 987 Boxster S.

'987 Boxster S' is a legitimate answer to a 'what £25k car' question in itself.

Keep it or get more money?

I'm with you. More money isn't an option right now (above). Keeping mine is. I'm not totaly closed to that idea. It's just nice to have a change once in a while - and like I said above, I want to find a keeper. At my budget, that would mean a nice Boxster, or a semi-ratty 997. The latter isn't going to happen.

 

[Skiddley]

Tend to agree with the above.

I would save/spend a little more and get the newer 3.4s Boxster.

This is the one I'm planning on getting. They've been 3.4 since 2007.

You mean a Gen 2?

Actually, as the replacement is likely to be announced in 2013, I think a Gen 2 would be a bad idea (financially).

 

[Skiddley]

I would raise that budget a little bit to 30k and seek out a 997, Portiacraft have got one in now 50k miles, brand new Porsche engine for about the money you want to spend.

http://www.portiacraft.com/cardetail.asp?make=Porsche-997-C2 Manual 6 Speed&id=1634

They are about you just got to look.

Crap spec. I've seen better ones (and I have been looking)...

I'll keep my eyes open for one. The running costs are very similar to a 987, so I'd be fine in that respect. I know them like the back of my hand now too which is good for the confidence

 

[Skiddley]

4.3 engine plus dire running costs

I love that . But I fear the running costs would kill me .

I've just got married - life isn't as cheap as it was

 

[Skiddley]

Maybe too old / under budget but Z4MC or roadster ?

http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2418464.htm

The interior makes me want to kill myself, sorry. I'd feel like I was drowning in a sea of cheap plastics.

Yes - I'm fussy
- BMW - Hold no attraction to me.
- Lotus - would enjoy as a 2nd car , but too basic for everyday use.
- Aston - I'd love one...but maybe in a few years

 

[Skiddley]

Excellent spec, but dull colour as you say.

Given what you have already, the colour would be a deal breaker for me.

What's the colour/spec of yours?

Seal Grey, 19", Bose, PCM\Nav, Half leather...erm...wind deflector....mats....

EDIT: Coloured Wheel Centers, heated seats!

I've seen a white one with a red interior...yum yum. 32K though. Something like that would be ideal, just bought privately for a few K less.
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2516809.htm

 

[Skiddley]

Not being much of an educated car man, but have you thought of a Noble M12?

I have actually looked at Nobles as it happens. As this purchase has to tick quite a few boxes (looks, quality, pace, comfort, reliability) - it's my only car, so I had to discount them.

Balls out speed isn't the only consideration.

Practically, they look a bit dated (to me) and it just wouldn't offer the creature comforts I'll want when I'm driving up the motorway to see the family. I'd get there with a broken back and ringing ears . NOT a good look

 

[Skiddley]

Thanks for the input guys. I shall post back after summer with the result