Thinking of selling the 993. Gen 2 997 or AM Vantage V8 4.3?
Discussion
Not sure if this or the AM forum was the right place for this thread. Maybe neither. 
Getting a bit annoyed how the air-cooled stuff is going up in value. Sounds mad I know, but the plus side is that all of a sudden cars I never thought I might be able to own are suddenly within my budget.
I am getting a wee bit tired of the expense of keeping my 993 up too spec and do quietly fancy something I can just get in and drive and not worry about 20 years of wear,
I have always been a Porsche fan and have owned quite a few in the last 12 years, however I now think the UK just to busy for a high performance car, so instead for the last few years I drive like a mad thing mainly on the deserted roads of Spain once or twice a year.
So ......911 Gen 2 (because of engine worries nothing before) or AM Vantage?
38K budget and so I'm lucky enough I can have either.
Anyone out there who can give me an honest appraisal of both, positive and negative? I do love the AM look, but still I love the 911.
Getting a bit annoyed how the air-cooled stuff is going up in value. Sounds mad I know, but the plus side is that all of a sudden cars I never thought I might be able to own are suddenly within my budget.
I am getting a wee bit tired of the expense of keeping my 993 up too spec and do quietly fancy something I can just get in and drive and not worry about 20 years of wear,
I have always been a Porsche fan and have owned quite a few in the last 12 years, however I now think the UK just to busy for a high performance car, so instead for the last few years I drive like a mad thing mainly on the deserted roads of Spain once or twice a year.
So ......911 Gen 2 (because of engine worries nothing before) or AM Vantage?
38K budget and so I'm lucky enough I can have either.
Anyone out there who can give me an honest appraisal of both, positive and negative? I do love the AM look, but still I love the 911.
This is fairly short, the first couple of mins sets the script, the finest part is at about 4m24secs:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xn1CLllOnrI&fe...
I'd never do that in a 997, in a 993 however, you certainly would!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xn1CLllOnrI&fe...
I'd never do that in a 997, in a 993 however, you certainly would!
Blimey, didn't quite expect the replies so far. I thought I'd have a zillion answers telling me to buy a 997.
PS. Love the vid ...... and the 'love' tap he gives the dash at the end of it. (Surely just an air-cooled thing).
I find myself doing that every so often when a trip has gone well. ..... Damn.
PS. Love the vid ...... and the 'love' tap he gives the dash at the end of it. (Surely just an air-cooled thing).
I find myself doing that every so often when a trip has gone well.
..... Damn.Edited by Wozy68 on Sunday 26th April 22:23
Tough call, but then again I'm all for variety been the spice of life.
"One life live it" philosophy
I've hankered over an AM Vantage V8 lovely looking things and I think if you drove one it would make your mind up.
Gen 2 997, very capable obviously but probably not that special albeit I thought all 911's were special!
How about a 997 Turbo?
Bit quick for the roads but lovely.
I've had 12 911's and never lost a penny, but I'm hankering after something different now, even considering going down the Ford Cosworth route, always had a soft spot for them, and great investments in my opinion
"One life live it" philosophy
I've hankered over an AM Vantage V8 lovely looking things and I think if you drove one it would make your mind up.
Gen 2 997, very capable obviously but probably not that special albeit I thought all 911's were special!
How about a 997 Turbo?
Bit quick for the roads but lovely.
I've had 12 911's and never lost a penny, but I'm hankering after something different now, even considering going down the Ford Cosworth route, always had a soft spot for them, and great investments in my opinion
Crimp said:
Tough call, but then again I'm all for variety been the spice of life.
"One life live it" philosophy
I've hankered over an AM Vantage V8 lovely looking things and I think if you drove one it would make your mind up.
Gen 2 997, very capable obviously but probably not that special albeit I thought all 911's were special!
How about a 997 Turbo?
Bit quick for the roads but lovely.
I've had 12 911's and never lost a penny, but I'm hankering after something different now, even considering going down the Ford Cosworth route, always had a soft spot for them, and great investments in my opinion
Yes 997 turbo was in my sights. Problem is I've heard they are just so capable that they don't thrill unless you're doing silly mph. "One life live it" philosophy
I've hankered over an AM Vantage V8 lovely looking things and I think if you drove one it would make your mind up.
Gen 2 997, very capable obviously but probably not that special albeit I thought all 911's were special!
How about a 997 Turbo?
Bit quick for the roads but lovely.
I've had 12 911's and never lost a penny, but I'm hankering after something different now, even considering going down the Ford Cosworth route, always had a soft spot for them, and great investments in my opinion
I hoped the 997 or AM might be more real world.
I have driven many brand new V8 Vantages. Not a patch on a 993. Uncomfortable seats, gear-lever too far back. Loads of noise to little effect. Silly 'James Bond' wannabes. I think reliability isn't too bad. Value will only go down. 997 could not really comment but why sell 993 for one? Apart from maintenance which can be a bit annoying, I agree.
Wozy68 said:
Not sure if this or the AM forum was the right place for this thread. Maybe neither.
Getting a bit annoyed how the air-cooled stuff is going up in value. Sounds mad I know, but the plus side is that all of a sudden cars I never thought I might be able to own are suddenly within my budget.
I am getting a wee bit tired of the expense of keeping my 993 up too spec and do quietly fancy something I can just get in and drive and not worry about 20 years of wear,
I have always been a Porsche fan and have owned quite a few in the last 12 years, however I now think the UK just to busy for a high performance car, so instead for the last few years I drive like a mad thing mainly on the deserted roads of Spain once or twice a year.
So ......911 Gen 2 (because of engine worries nothing before) or AM Vantage?
38K budget and so I'm lucky enough I can have either.
Anyone out there who can give me an honest appraisal of both, positive and negative? I do love the AM look, but still I love the 911.
Wozy,Getting a bit annoyed how the air-cooled stuff is going up in value. Sounds mad I know, but the plus side is that all of a sudden cars I never thought I might be able to own are suddenly within my budget.
I am getting a wee bit tired of the expense of keeping my 993 up too spec and do quietly fancy something I can just get in and drive and not worry about 20 years of wear,
I have always been a Porsche fan and have owned quite a few in the last 12 years, however I now think the UK just to busy for a high performance car, so instead for the last few years I drive like a mad thing mainly on the deserted roads of Spain once or twice a year.
So ......911 Gen 2 (because of engine worries nothing before) or AM Vantage?
38K budget and so I'm lucky enough I can have either.
Anyone out there who can give me an honest appraisal of both, positive and negative? I do love the AM look, but still I love the 911.
You appear to be in the Gloucestershire region.
I have a tidy low-mileage 4.3 Vantage and some spare time. If you want a look/poke/ride then just let me know and I'd be more than happy.
As for the general discussion on this thread - I find that the Vantage really reminds me of the 993. The same fairly heavy mechanical controls, the same great sound, backed up with solid reliability (much worse visibility, though). Perhaps it's down to the fact that the same man was behind development of both of them.
I tried the 997 before buying the AM. The 997 is a great car. Probably better, in the objective and practical sense - although I suppose you regrettably have to concern yourself with engine worries which is a bit of a downer. But I find the AM to be a better sports car than it needs to be and it can be really engaging to own and drive. I also like the FR layout which I'm nice and familiar with and which feels safe to push.
I've had a 997 C2S Gen 1, it was a really good car and I would have another. But I agree that you may regret selling the 993. Having said that, I get bored with cars after a few years, so can see why you would want to change.
Once my Cayman is sold, hopefully in the next few days, I'll be in the market for a 964 or 993, is yours a C2 manual by chance? Just incase you do decide to sell up!
Once my Cayman is sold, hopefully in the next few days, I'll be in the market for a 964 or 993, is yours a C2 manual by chance? Just incase you do decide to sell up!
I have no experience of the AM but have previously owned 993's and 997's, both Gen.1 & Gen.2. I do love the 993 but I have ended up with a mint, low mileage Gen.2 997 C2/3.6 PDK with sports chrono package(£290 pa road tax).
I find it the best of both worlds giving a modern day(better) driving experience with reasonable running costs, and eventually, I believe, inflation proof. IMHO.
I find it the best of both worlds giving a modern day(better) driving experience with reasonable running costs, and eventually, I believe, inflation proof. IMHO.
Edited by carcrazypop on Monday 27th April 09:04
Rising AC values can be a double edged sword however it goes some way to offsetting their often expensive maintenance.
Better than paying similar costs on a depreciating asset.
If you do decide to sell the 993 there may be no going back because of these rising values.
I suspect that the 7.2 is extremely capable but does not have the character or feel of the 993. The 993 is fun at any speeds, not so on the 7.2.
Sometimes though we just need a change and I myself have considered the AM as a future toy. It's a beautiful looking thing and sounds great. I've never driven one and know nowt much about them so for me it would be taking a punt on it being a successful venture. I've heard good and bad reports and mantainance costs can be eye watering too. When I see and hear a titanium storm colour V8V drive by it makes me lust after one for a minute or so.
Better than paying similar costs on a depreciating asset.
If you do decide to sell the 993 there may be no going back because of these rising values.
I suspect that the 7.2 is extremely capable but does not have the character or feel of the 993. The 993 is fun at any speeds, not so on the 7.2.
Sometimes though we just need a change and I myself have considered the AM as a future toy. It's a beautiful looking thing and sounds great. I've never driven one and know nowt much about them so for me it would be taking a punt on it being a successful venture. I've heard good and bad reports and mantainance costs can be eye watering too. When I see and hear a titanium storm colour V8V drive by it makes me lust after one for a minute or so.
I'm sure you're not alone in having this conundrum.
There does seem to be a fair few air cooled owners who feel trapped my the rising values and not wanting to cash in too early.
Ultimately you never actually realize a value until you sell it (like shares) as it could go up (or down).
If you feel the time is right i'd suggest driving both the 997 C2S and V8 Vantage which should give you a far better idea of which is right (or whether you actually prefer your current 993).
The V8 Vantage has a lovely sound, it's a harder ride and isn't as dynamic (as the 997) and some owners have had quality issues.
The 997 C2S (Gen 2) is quicker, more refined and not as raw as the 993(lacking in the air cooled character), but it'll be far cheaper to run and the bodywork is better protected against rust etc.
The other option as others have said would be a 997.1 turbo - much faster, all weather ability, but may not be what you want.
As you say the price rises give you the opportunity to experience something that didn't used to be in reach.
I think manual 997 Gen 2 coupes will be future classics as there were less made due to the recession and they don't have the reliability issues of earlier 996/997 cars.
No right or wrong, just your decision.
There does seem to be a fair few air cooled owners who feel trapped my the rising values and not wanting to cash in too early.
Ultimately you never actually realize a value until you sell it (like shares) as it could go up (or down).
If you feel the time is right i'd suggest driving both the 997 C2S and V8 Vantage which should give you a far better idea of which is right (or whether you actually prefer your current 993).
The V8 Vantage has a lovely sound, it's a harder ride and isn't as dynamic (as the 997) and some owners have had quality issues.
The 997 C2S (Gen 2) is quicker, more refined and not as raw as the 993(lacking in the air cooled character), but it'll be far cheaper to run and the bodywork is better protected against rust etc.
The other option as others have said would be a 997.1 turbo - much faster, all weather ability, but may not be what you want.
As you say the price rises give you the opportunity to experience something that didn't used to be in reach.
I think manual 997 Gen 2 coupes will be future classics as there were less made due to the recession and they don't have the reliability issues of earlier 996/997 cars.
No right or wrong, just your decision.
Well...
I was in the same boat as you a couple of weeks ago. I had a 993 and have just recently changed it for an AM Vantage V8. I sort of lost confidence in the 993. The battery kept going flat on me even though it was used at least once/twice a week. I only have one car (and no garage) so it was a PITA having to go and get the battery booster to start her up, especially if I'd forgotten to keep the charge up
She also had an oil leak that was putting me off, I kept having to top it up every couple of months. Like you say there is always things that need to be changed on a 20 years old car.
I've only had the Aston for 2 weeks so I can't really compare costs / reliability yet but I can on the handling etc...The ride in the Aston is so much nicer, it doesn't lean anything like the 993 did and takes bumps very well. It's roughly half the age of the 993 but feels like a new car whereas the 993 did feel like a 20 year old car.
The Porsche was also very understated which I quite liked, I could pretty much park her anywhere and not think twice about it. I've had kids at bus-stops wave at me, Neighbours text me asking if I'd won the lottery, people coming up to me to talk about the car when I'm washing it etc... Never really had that in the 993.
The Aston was always a dream car for me growing up, so I couldn't really turn the chance down. So far so good
I was in the same boat as you a couple of weeks ago. I had a 993 and have just recently changed it for an AM Vantage V8. I sort of lost confidence in the 993. The battery kept going flat on me even though it was used at least once/twice a week. I only have one car (and no garage) so it was a PITA having to go and get the battery booster to start her up, especially if I'd forgotten to keep the charge up
She also had an oil leak that was putting me off, I kept having to top it up every couple of months. Like you say there is always things that need to be changed on a 20 years old car.
I've only had the Aston for 2 weeks so I can't really compare costs / reliability yet but I can on the handling etc...The ride in the Aston is so much nicer, it doesn't lean anything like the 993 did and takes bumps very well. It's roughly half the age of the 993 but feels like a new car whereas the 993 did feel like a 20 year old car.
The Porsche was also very understated which I quite liked, I could pretty much park her anywhere and not think twice about it. I've had kids at bus-stops wave at me, Neighbours text me asking if I'd won the lottery, people coming up to me to talk about the car when I'm washing it etc... Never really had that in the 993.
The Aston was always a dream car for me growing up, so I couldn't really turn the chance down. So far so good
Diablos-666 said:
Well...
I was in the same boat as you a couple of weeks ago. I had a 993 and have just recently changed it for an AM Vantage V8. I sort of lost confidence in the 993. The battery kept going flat on me even though it was used at least once/twice a week. I only have one car (and no garage) so it was a PITA having to go and get the battery booster to start her up, especially if I'd forgotten to keep the charge up
She also had an oil leak that was putting me off, I kept having to top it up every couple of months. Like you say there is always things that need to be changed on a 20 years old car.
I've only had the Aston for 2 weeks so I can't really compare costs / reliability yet but I can on the handling etc...The ride in the Aston is so much nicer, it doesn't lean anything like the 993 did and takes bumps very well. It's roughly half the age of the 993 but feels like a new car whereas the 993 did feel like a 20 year old car.
The Porsche was also very understated which I quite liked, I could pretty much park her anywhere and not think twice about it. I've had kids at bus-stops wave at me, Neighbours text me asking if I'd won the lottery, people coming up to me to talk about the car when I'm washing it etc... Never really had that in the 993.
The Aston was always a dream car for me growing up, so I couldn't really turn the chance down. So far so good
Great post and many thanks.I was in the same boat as you a couple of weeks ago. I had a 993 and have just recently changed it for an AM Vantage V8. I sort of lost confidence in the 993. The battery kept going flat on me even though it was used at least once/twice a week. I only have one car (and no garage) so it was a PITA having to go and get the battery booster to start her up, especially if I'd forgotten to keep the charge up
She also had an oil leak that was putting me off, I kept having to top it up every couple of months. Like you say there is always things that need to be changed on a 20 years old car.
I've only had the Aston for 2 weeks so I can't really compare costs / reliability yet but I can on the handling etc...The ride in the Aston is so much nicer, it doesn't lean anything like the 993 did and takes bumps very well. It's roughly half the age of the 993 but feels like a new car whereas the 993 did feel like a 20 year old car.
The Porsche was also very understated which I quite liked, I could pretty much park her anywhere and not think twice about it. I've had kids at bus-stops wave at me, Neighbours text me asking if I'd won the lottery, people coming up to me to talk about the car when I'm washing it etc... Never really had that in the 993.
The Aston was always a dream car for me growing up, so I couldn't really turn the chance down. So far so good
I actually had the chance to drive my 993 this morning. Heading over to see a longterm customer of ours, in the 911 on the narrow country roads of the North Cotswolds was lovely in the sun. You forget just how small the 993 is especially on the inside and how close you are to the dash and windscreen.
Heading north near Kineton, an AM Vantage (Probs one of the McQuirk cars out for a test drive) was coming the other way.
The Vantage is indeed a very beautiful car, however saying that, I hadn't realised just how wide they are. She looked a little to large for a cross country minor road blast if I was honest ....... or the narrow twisties of the Pyrenees that I love so much.
Surely they couldnt be that much wider than a contemporary 911?
Diablos-666 said:
Well...
I was in the same boat as you a couple of weeks ago. I had a 993 and have just recently changed it for an AM Vantage V8. I sort of lost confidence in the 993. The battery kept going flat on me even though it was used at least once/twice a week. I only have one car (and no garage) so it was a PITA having to go and get the battery booster to start her up, especially if I'd forgotten to keep the charge up
She also had an oil leak that was putting me off, I kept having to top it up every couple of months. Like you say there is always things that need to be changed on a 20 years old car.
I've only had the Aston for 2 weeks so I can't really compare costs / reliability yet but I can on the handling etc...The ride in the Aston is so much nicer, it doesn't lean anything like the 993 did and takes bumps very well. It's roughly half the age of the 993 but feels like a new car whereas the 993 did feel like a 20 year old car.
The Porsche was also very understated which I quite liked, I could pretty much park her anywhere and not think twice about it. I've had kids at bus-stops wave at me, Neighbours text me asking if I'd won the lottery, people coming up to me to talk about the car when I'm washing it etc... Never really had that in the 993.
The Aston was always a dream car for me growing up, so I couldn't really turn the chance down. So far so good
The one that finished on eBay last night, was your 993 correct?I was in the same boat as you a couple of weeks ago. I had a 993 and have just recently changed it for an AM Vantage V8. I sort of lost confidence in the 993. The battery kept going flat on me even though it was used at least once/twice a week. I only have one car (and no garage) so it was a PITA having to go and get the battery booster to start her up, especially if I'd forgotten to keep the charge up
She also had an oil leak that was putting me off, I kept having to top it up every couple of months. Like you say there is always things that need to be changed on a 20 years old car.
I've only had the Aston for 2 weeks so I can't really compare costs / reliability yet but I can on the handling etc...The ride in the Aston is so much nicer, it doesn't lean anything like the 993 did and takes bumps very well. It's roughly half the age of the 993 but feels like a new car whereas the 993 did feel like a 20 year old car.
The Porsche was also very understated which I quite liked, I could pretty much park her anywhere and not think twice about it. I've had kids at bus-stops wave at me, Neighbours text me asking if I'd won the lottery, people coming up to me to talk about the car when I'm washing it etc... Never really had that in the 993.
The Aston was always a dream car for me growing up, so I couldn't really turn the chance down. So far so good
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1995-PORSCHE-911-CARRERA...
Though if it was up for 33k you wonder how it made so little on eBay
http://911uk.com/ads_item.php?id=5860
Bargain!
Edited by avaF1 on Monday 27th April 12:57
Wozy68 said:
Great post and many thanks.
I actually had the chance to drive my 993 this morning. Heading over to see a longterm customer of ours, in the 911 on the narrow country roads of the North Cotswolds was lovely in the sun. You forget just how small the 993 is especially on the inside and how close you are to the dash and windscreen.
Heading north near Kineton, an AM Vantage (Probs one of the McQuirk cars out for a test drive) was coming the other way.
The Vantage is indeed a very beautiful car, however saying that, I hadn't realised just how wide they are. She looked a little to large for a cross country minor road blast if I was honest ....... or the narrow twisties of the Pyrenees that I love so much.
Surely they couldnt be that much wider than a contemporary 911?
The Vantage is much much wider than the 993! I'm still getting used to the size difference. I actually had the chance to drive my 993 this morning. Heading over to see a longterm customer of ours, in the 911 on the narrow country roads of the North Cotswolds was lovely in the sun. You forget just how small the 993 is especially on the inside and how close you are to the dash and windscreen.
Heading north near Kineton, an AM Vantage (Probs one of the McQuirk cars out for a test drive) was coming the other way.
The Vantage is indeed a very beautiful car, however saying that, I hadn't realised just how wide they are. She looked a little to large for a cross country minor road blast if I was honest ....... or the narrow twisties of the Pyrenees that I love so much.
Surely they couldnt be that much wider than a contemporary 911?
avaF1 said:
The one that finished on eBay last night, was your 993 correct?
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1995-PORSCHE-911-CARRERA...
Though if it was up for 33k you wonder how it made so little on eBay
http://911uk.com/ads_item.php?id=5860
Bargain!
Yes, that was my old 993. The dealer (home dealer) made a few £k profit it seems. Good luck to him. He seemed like a nice guy.http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1995-PORSCHE-911-CARRERA...
Though if it was up for 33k you wonder how it made so little on eBay
http://911uk.com/ads_item.php?id=5860
Bargain!
Edited by avaF1 on Monday 27th April 12:57
Gassing Station | Porsche Classics | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff