also thinking of defecting

[Tony_996]

...although not to TVR.... after 10 years of 911 ownership, I had plans to move up to the 996 Turbo in the New Year, however for that sort of money, a Diablo SV (circa. 1998/99) has now become a serious alternative. I no longer do tens of thousands of miles per year in the 911 (in fact only 3000 in the last year), so why not something a bit different.

Having done the preliminary homework, yes the servicing will be a "bit more" expensive, but specialists will do an annual service for under a grand and due to limited mileage I don't expect to go through clutches every year!!! Unbelievably insurance quotes have been coming in cheaper than a 996 Turbo.

I know it won't be as quick from A to B as the 911, and probably not as reliable, but I can live with this. However am I missing something in my reasoning, or is this a sensible PH thing to do?

[Tony_996]

Sobering comments from Roy.... I will not be showing the wife his comments! However, my own simplistic brain can still rationalise the purchase because the SV, being only 2wd and lighter than the VT, is apparently "easier" to maintain. Also I am only looking to purchase from a specialist garage/dealer and definitely not privately, as such I will have a certain amount of comfort re. warranty. One particular dealer I have in mind seems to have very good servicing facilities and does not charge the normal extortionate offical-garage labour costs.

In terms of the new baby Lambo, I expect that the waiting lists will be considerable and preferential treatment will go to existing Lambo owners, so that seems too much of a long wait.

I will keep the forum updated.

[Tony_996]

See separate thread:-

www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?f=63&h=0&t=31954

It's looking quite likely, touch wood!!!