Hi, I'm new to this forum and was looking for some advice on buying a 911. I was thinking of buying a used 911 with low mileage and also considering a new 911. Can anyone give me some advice on what I should be considering as I enter into this process?

I live in the Philly area, know that I want either a 911 S or 4S.

Thanks.

 

Both the S and 4S are good cars. A decision between the two boils down to whether you want the better handling of the 4S and don't mind the added weight and complexity/service-repair costs of the additional drivetrain components. In day to day driving you won't notice the difference between the two.
A new model or a very recent used model gives you the option to get the PDK transmission, which is worth quite a bit in performance.
Other than that, there is nothing inherently different about buying a used Porscheas compared to buying a used or new car of any make. Have it inspected by someone who knows the brand well.
As to the used versus new: Porsches depreciate more than you might think, making good used one pretty good bargains.

 

I believe that there are several things to consider when purchasing a porsche.
1) What do you plan on doing with your car?
a) Is it going to be a track car
b) garage beauty that's only going out on the weekend?

If you want a track car, I recommend a 996 S.
If you want a garage beauty I recommend a 2005 - 2006 (997.1)

I'm not sold on the 2009 - 2010 (997.2) models. The cost of entry doesn't justify the price hike between them and a used one.

Since you live in Philly, I say get a C4S. That's what I own and I absolutely love it. And if you can, see if you can find one with a GT3 Kit. If you put GT3 Kit in the worded area in autotrader.com some listings should pop up.

I'd say to limit yourself to only Paying $55,000 for a good 997.1. Anything over that is paying too much. Also, try to get a car whose miles equal 5000 or less per year of existance.

Make sure that you check the maintainence records with the dealership of the car and also check carfax. Also, get the car looked at before you purcahse it by a Porsche dealership.

As far as options, the stitched leather interior and bose are nice touches. Chrono is a must and if you can find it, choose a car with yellow brakes, as they are the ceramic ones that cost $6000 extra. And if someone trys to BS you about the additional cost for the car, remind them that options depreciate too lol.