First 911 - thinking out loud
Discussion
Haven't posted on here for years, and I'm really just talking to myself...
Decided to spend a free afternoon popping to a Porsche Centre to try a used 991 Carrera (62k-ish). Had my Cayman 981 from new, two years, and was 50k.
Having real moral and financial dilemma about changing. Don't buy my cars on finance these days, so have a good part-ex wedge to put down, but will be taking a hefty chunk from savings for the rest. Without going into detail, it wouldn't be the bulk of them, but for a working class boy with few overheads it still seems like a silly rich man's thing. Especially as I'm already spoilt with a lovely car.
Anyway I'm sure I'm not the only one with this dilemma, and not really asking for advice, just dropping down a few thoughts to stop me going mad.
(I do remember one or two on the Cayman forum who criticised posts they didn't think original or specifically useful, so if you do find this post irrelevant, apologies!)
Decided to spend a free afternoon popping to a Porsche Centre to try a used 991 Carrera (62k-ish). Had my Cayman 981 from new, two years, and was 50k.
Having real moral and financial dilemma about changing. Don't buy my cars on finance these days, so have a good part-ex wedge to put down, but will be taking a hefty chunk from savings for the rest. Without going into detail, it wouldn't be the bulk of them, but for a working class boy with few overheads it still seems like a silly rich man's thing. Especially as I'm already spoilt with a lovely car.
Anyway I'm sure I'm not the only one with this dilemma, and not really asking for advice, just dropping down a few thoughts to stop me going mad.
(I do remember one or two on the Cayman forum who criticised posts they didn't think original or specifically useful, so if you do find this post irrelevant, apologies!)
Edited by marky999 on Sunday 7th August 19:33
Edited by marky999 on Sunday 7th August 19:34
Edited by marky999 on Sunday 7th August 19:37
I'm not sure if you want us to comment, but hey it's an Internet forum!
We are all different in how we value things, be it time, people, money, lifestyle and so on. It sounds like you can afford to make this change and are giving up some cash at the bank. What else might you, or anyone, give up? Perhaps nothing, a holiday or two, so many new clothes or a swankier home. Again, all of those are personal choices. If it impinges on your family, their security or enjoyment then it's a tougher decision, but if you don't have a family (or at least dependants) right now then no problem. If it threatens your ability to pay the rent/mortgage or means your electricity will be cut off then not so handy.
Next on my mind would be career trajectory and future ins/outs on the money front. If you feel good about your earning capacity then fill your boots (if you want to and subject to points above). The car, mortgage etc will diminish in relation to your earnings over time.
Last but not least is ageing. We will all be dead one day and the only thing for certain is that tomorrow you're a day to closer to that moment. Fun that you could have had today will have slipped by, never to be regained, if you defer it until tomorrow. You see where I'm going with this - there is massive value in life experiences and some things are better done younger.
I've no idea what the right answer for you is, mostly because there is no one right answer. If you think it will all fine long term, no hideous compromises needed now and you're unlikely to be sleeping in the car as well as driving it then crack on. More time living the dream than dreaming the dream.
We are all different in how we value things, be it time, people, money, lifestyle and so on. It sounds like you can afford to make this change and are giving up some cash at the bank. What else might you, or anyone, give up? Perhaps nothing, a holiday or two, so many new clothes or a swankier home. Again, all of those are personal choices. If it impinges on your family, their security or enjoyment then it's a tougher decision, but if you don't have a family (or at least dependants) right now then no problem. If it threatens your ability to pay the rent/mortgage or means your electricity will be cut off then not so handy.
Next on my mind would be career trajectory and future ins/outs on the money front. If you feel good about your earning capacity then fill your boots (if you want to and subject to points above). The car, mortgage etc will diminish in relation to your earnings over time.
Last but not least is ageing. We will all be dead one day and the only thing for certain is that tomorrow you're a day to closer to that moment. Fun that you could have had today will have slipped by, never to be regained, if you defer it until tomorrow. You see where I'm going with this - there is massive value in life experiences and some things are better done younger.
I've no idea what the right answer for you is, mostly because there is no one right answer. If you think it will all fine long term, no hideous compromises needed now and you're unlikely to be sleeping in the car as well as driving it then crack on. More time living the dream than dreaming the dream.
jimmyslr said:
I'm not sure if you want us to comment, but hey it's an Internet forum!
We are all different in how we value things, be it time, people, money, lifestyle and so on. It sounds like you can afford to make this change and are giving up some cash at the bank. What else might you, or anyone, give up? Perhaps nothing, a holiday or two, so many new clothes or a swankier home. Again, all of those are personal choices. If it impinges on your family, their security or enjoyment then it's a tougher decision, but if you don't have a family (or at least dependants) right now then no problem. If it threatens your ability to pay the rent/mortgage or means your electricity will be cut off then not so handy.
Next on my mind would be career trajectory and future ins/outs on the money front. If you feel good about your earning capacity then fill your boots (if you want to and subject to points above). The car, mortgage etc will diminish in relation to your earnings over time.
Last but not least is ageing. We will all be dead one day and the only thing for certain is that tomorrow you're a day to closer to that moment. Fun that you could have had today will have slipped by, never to be regained, if you defer it until tomorrow. You see where I'm going with this - there is massive value in life experiences and some things are better done younger.
I've no idea what the right answer for you is, mostly because there is no one right answer. If you think it will all fine long term, no hideous compromises needed now and you're unlikely to be sleeping in the car as well as driving it then crack on. More time living the dream than dreaming the dream.
Wise words from jimmysirWe are all different in how we value things, be it time, people, money, lifestyle and so on. It sounds like you can afford to make this change and are giving up some cash at the bank. What else might you, or anyone, give up? Perhaps nothing, a holiday or two, so many new clothes or a swankier home. Again, all of those are personal choices. If it impinges on your family, their security or enjoyment then it's a tougher decision, but if you don't have a family (or at least dependants) right now then no problem. If it threatens your ability to pay the rent/mortgage or means your electricity will be cut off then not so handy.
Next on my mind would be career trajectory and future ins/outs on the money front. If you feel good about your earning capacity then fill your boots (if you want to and subject to points above). The car, mortgage etc will diminish in relation to your earnings over time.
Last but not least is ageing. We will all be dead one day and the only thing for certain is that tomorrow you're a day to closer to that moment. Fun that you could have had today will have slipped by, never to be regained, if you defer it until tomorrow. You see where I'm going with this - there is massive value in life experiences and some things are better done younger.
I've no idea what the right answer for you is, mostly because there is no one right answer. If you think it will all fine long term, no hideous compromises needed now and you're unlikely to be sleeping in the car as well as driving it then crack on. More time living the dream than dreaming the dream.
Wow, thanks so much for taking the time to give me a really considered opinion. Truly, really wise words indeed. It's hard to ask friends as they mostly have big commitments and my dilemma will seem like spoilt brat stuff. I'm married and certainly not rich but the car wouldn't compromise anything. It's just a big dent in savings but I have modest house, small mortgage and as you say...(roughly), live for now (if it doesn't impinge on other stuff).
You've made my thinking much clearer. Think it's just a guilt thing! If I do it (think I will) I'll post some photos.
Oh and of course I wanted opinions, I was just anxious that I was merely rambling and at the end of the day I have to decide for myself... You've helped though.
Mark.
You've made my thinking much clearer. Think it's just a guilt thing! If I do it (think I will) I'll post some photos.
Oh and of course I wanted opinions, I was just anxious that I was merely rambling and at the end of the day I have to decide for myself... You've helped though.
Mark.
jimmyslr said:
I'm not sure if you want us to comment, but hey it's an Internet forum!
We are all different in how we value things, be it time, people, money, lifestyle and so on. It sounds like you can afford to make this change and are giving up some cash at the bank. What else might you, or anyone, give up? Perhaps nothing, a holiday or two, so many new clothes or a swankier home. Again, all of those are personal choices. If it impinges on your family, their security or enjoyment then it's a tougher decision, but if you don't have a family (or at least dependants) right now then no problem. If it threatens your ability to pay the rent/mortgage or means your electricity will be cut off then not so handy.
Next on my mind would be career trajectory and future ins/outs on the money front. If you feel good about your earning capacity then fill your boots (if you want to and subject to points above). The car, mortgage etc will diminish in relation to your earnings over time.
Last but not least is ageing. We will all be dead one day and the only thing for certain is that tomorrow you're a day to closer to that moment. Fun that you could have had today will have slipped by, never to be regained, if you defer it until tomorrow. You see where I'm going with this - there is massive value in life experiences and some things are better done younger.
I've no idea what the right answer for you is, mostly because there is no one right answer. If you think it will all fine long term, no hideous compromises needed now and you're unlikely to be sleeping in the car as well as driving it then crack on. More time living the dream than dreaming the dream.
We are all different in how we value things, be it time, people, money, lifestyle and so on. It sounds like you can afford to make this change and are giving up some cash at the bank. What else might you, or anyone, give up? Perhaps nothing, a holiday or two, so many new clothes or a swankier home. Again, all of those are personal choices. If it impinges on your family, their security or enjoyment then it's a tougher decision, but if you don't have a family (or at least dependants) right now then no problem. If it threatens your ability to pay the rent/mortgage or means your electricity will be cut off then not so handy.
Next on my mind would be career trajectory and future ins/outs on the money front. If you feel good about your earning capacity then fill your boots (if you want to and subject to points above). The car, mortgage etc will diminish in relation to your earnings over time.
Last but not least is ageing. We will all be dead one day and the only thing for certain is that tomorrow you're a day to closer to that moment. Fun that you could have had today will have slipped by, never to be regained, if you defer it until tomorrow. You see where I'm going with this - there is massive value in life experiences and some things are better done younger.
I've no idea what the right answer for you is, mostly because there is no one right answer. If you think it will all fine long term, no hideous compromises needed now and you're unlikely to be sleeping in the car as well as driving it then crack on. More time living the dream than dreaming the dream.
Thanks, the one I was looking at is a used 991 base Carrera and I'd hope to keep it a good while (hmmm I always say that, but as it's a 911, I hope it'll only get better with age). It's taken a big hit in depreciation already, maybe 25k - I won't ever be able to buy a new one without savaging my bank account. Not wealthy like some others (thanks heavens they exist to buy them so I can get their cast-offs!)
g7jhp said:
991.2 Carrera will be on a steep depreciation curve as it's new.
Why not choose another older 911 which has finished depreciating/started appreciating?
You can then pick-up a 991.2 Carrera in a couple of years when they've come down.
Guess it depends if you want a new car now.
Why not choose another older 911 which has finished depreciating/started appreciating?
You can then pick-up a 991.2 Carrera in a couple of years when they've come down.
Guess it depends if you want a new car now.
Edited by marky999 on Sunday 7th August 23:04
jimmyslr said:
I'm not sure if you want us to comment, but hey it's an Internet forum!
We are all different in how we value things, be it time, people, money, lifestyle and so on. It sounds like you can afford to make this change and are giving up some cash at the bank. What else might you, or anyone, give up? Perhaps nothing, a holiday or two, so many new clothes or a swankier home. Again, all of those are personal choices. If it impinges on your family, their security or enjoyment then it's a tougher decision, but if you don't have a family (or at least dependants) right now then no problem. If it threatens your ability to pay the rent/mortgage or means your electricity will be cut off then not so handy.
Next on my mind would be career trajectory and future ins/outs on the money front. If you feel good about your earning capacity then fill your boots (if you want to and subject to points above). The car, mortgage etc will diminish in relation to your earnings over time.
Last but not least is ageing. We will all be dead one day and the only thing for certain is that tomorrow you're a day to closer to that moment. Fun that you could have had today will have slipped by, never to be regained, if you defer it until tomorrow. You see where I'm going with this - there is massive value in life experiences and some things are better done younger.
I've no idea what the right answer for you is, mostly because there is no one right answer. If you think it will all fine long term, no hideous compromises needed now and you're unlikely to be sleeping in the car as well as driving it then crack on. More time living the dream than dreaming the dream.
Wise words from jimmysirWe are all different in how we value things, be it time, people, money, lifestyle and so on. It sounds like you can afford to make this change and are giving up some cash at the bank. What else might you, or anyone, give up? Perhaps nothing, a holiday or two, so many new clothes or a swankier home. Again, all of those are personal choices. If it impinges on your family, their security or enjoyment then it's a tougher decision, but if you don't have a family (or at least dependants) right now then no problem. If it threatens your ability to pay the rent/mortgage or means your electricity will be cut off then not so handy.
Next on my mind would be career trajectory and future ins/outs on the money front. If you feel good about your earning capacity then fill your boots (if you want to and subject to points above). The car, mortgage etc will diminish in relation to your earnings over time.
Last but not least is ageing. We will all be dead one day and the only thing for certain is that tomorrow you're a day to closer to that moment. Fun that you could have had today will have slipped by, never to be regained, if you defer it until tomorrow. You see where I'm going with this - there is massive value in life experiences and some things are better done younger.
I've no idea what the right answer for you is, mostly because there is no one right answer. If you think it will all fine long term, no hideous compromises needed now and you're unlikely to be sleeping in the car as well as driving it then crack on. More time living the dream than dreaming the dream.
The only thing I could add to previous reply, is to ask if it would upset the pecking order in the company car park? Would the boss take offense? If you turn up at clients would they jump to the wrong conclusion they are overpaying you?
Unfortunately there are some narrow minded people who can taint the enjoyment of owning something special.
Unfortunately there are some narrow minded people who can taint the enjoyment of owning something special.
It's an interesting point....I work for myself but yes when I go to clients, sometimes it can seem a bit flash or insensitive (with my Caymans, to date) so I've sometimes told people it's the wife's car and she has a better job than me blah blah. It's funny, we like our cars but often don't want to be seen as flash. Anyway, bought the 911 today, collecting in a few days!
All these comments very much appreciated. I think I was just suffering from a bit of guilt about spending £62k on a car (and a 62 plate), just two years after spending 50k on a Cayman. Feels a bit selfish, but now I'm getting accustomed to it
So excited to get a 911 and I genuinely think I may hang onto this for years...where else is there to go?!
All these comments very much appreciated. I think I was just suffering from a bit of guilt about spending £62k on a car (and a 62 plate), just two years after spending 50k on a Cayman. Feels a bit selfish, but now I'm getting accustomed to it

So excited to get a 911 and I genuinely think I may hang onto this for years...where else is there to go?!
roca1976 said:
The only thing I could add to previous reply, is to ask if it would upset the pecking order in the company car park? Would the boss take offense? If you turn up at clients would they jump to the wrong conclusion they are overpaying you?
Unfortunately there are some narrow minded people who can taint the enjoyment of owning something special.
Unfortunately there are some narrow minded people who can taint the enjoyment of owning something special.
marky999 said:
It's an interesting point....I work for myself but yes when I go to clients, sometimes it can seem a bit flash or insensitive (with my Caymans, to date) so I've sometimes told people it's the wife's car and she has a better job than me blah blah. It's funny, we like our cars but often don't want to be seen as flash. Anyway, bought the 911 today, collecting in a few days!
All these comments very much appreciated. I think I was just suffering from a bit of guilt about spending £62k on a car (and a 62 plate), just two years after spending 50k on a Cayman. Feels a bit selfish, but now I'm getting accustomed to it
So excited to get a 911 and I genuinely think I may hang onto this for years...where else is there to go?!
Well done. Enjoy. All these comments very much appreciated. I think I was just suffering from a bit of guilt about spending £62k on a car (and a 62 plate), just two years after spending 50k on a Cayman. Feels a bit selfish, but now I'm getting accustomed to it

So excited to get a 911 and I genuinely think I may hang onto this for years...where else is there to go?!
roca1976 said:
The only thing I could add to previous reply, is to ask if it would upset the pecking order in the company car park? Would the boss take offense? If you turn up at clients would they jump to the wrong conclusion they are overpaying you?
Unfortunately there are some narrow minded people who can taint the enjoyment of owning something special.
Unfortunately there are some narrow minded people who can taint the enjoyment of owning something special.
Jimmy
marky999 said:
It's an interesting point....I work for myself but yes when I go to clients, sometimes it can seem a bit flash or insensitive (with my Caymans, to date) so I've sometimes told people it's the wife's car and she has a better job than me blah blah. It's funny, we like our cars but often don't want to be seen as flash. Anyway, bought the 911 today, collecting in a few days!
All these comments very much appreciated. I think I was just suffering from a bit of guilt about spending £62k on a car (and a 62 plate), just two years after spending 50k on a Cayman. Feels a bit selfish, but now I'm getting accustomed to it
So excited to get a 911 and I genuinely think I may hang onto this for years...where else is there to go?!
Well done, do enjoy!!! I don't think 911 are particularly better than caymans or boxsters but they do have that special feel.All these comments very much appreciated. I think I was just suffering from a bit of guilt about spending £62k on a car (and a 62 plate), just two years after spending 50k on a Cayman. Feels a bit selfish, but now I'm getting accustomed to it

So excited to get a 911 and I genuinely think I may hang onto this for years...where else is there to go?!
roca1976 said:
The only thing I could add to previous reply, is to ask if it would upset the pecking order in the company car park? Would the boss take offense? If you turn up at clients would they jump to the wrong conclusion they are overpaying you?
Unfortunately there are some narrow minded people who can taint the enjoyment of owning something special.
Unfortunately there are some narrow minded people who can taint the enjoyment of owning something special.
YoungMD said:
Well done, do enjoy!!! I don't think 911 are particularly better than caymans or boxsters but they do have that special feel.
Loved my Cayman but yes it's more of a symbolic, emotional thing from childhood with the 911....maybe that's why it feels a bit gratuitous but hey you can't always be ruled by your head. chasethesun said:
Understand your aversion to borrowings, but money is very cheap at the moment.
It might be better to use someone else's money. Have a look at Lombard, for example.
I've just looked on Lombards website and it seems they only do car finance for businesses. Is this correct?It might be better to use someone else's money. Have a look at Lombard, for example.
chasethesun said:
Understand your aversion to borrowings, but money is very cheap at the moment.
It might be better to use someone else's money. Have a look at Lombard, for example.
Agree with this. PCP deals are scandalous IMO but good old debt finance is the best way to buy any vehicle in my opinion.It might be better to use someone else's money. Have a look at Lombard, for example.
I'd rather pay a borrower a small premium at current rates, in exchange for the car that I want and the benefit of maintaining my liquidity than sinking all of my capital into a vehicle.
Same logic applies to most big ticket purchases I would say...
(Providing you are financing at a fixed rate!)
Interesting comments above, thanks again. Re the finance, good points made, it's just I'd rather just gasp once when I hand over the debit card than think about a monthly payment. I did ponder finance though. But I always think if there's enough in the bank for a rainy day/year or two, and no big expenses coming up, I might as well blow the rest. Reckless maybe. But as a great man said on here earlier, don't dream your dreams, live your dreams (circumstances allowing).
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