Used Cayman - mad to buy privately?

[993kimbo]

Toying with the idea of a used Cayman S.

Like many, I've spent far too long on Forums reading tales of water-cooled woe, but I know the percentages are small.

When I've bought cars from dealers in the past, I've always lost a packet when I come to sell them, so I'd prefer to buy privately, but if there was no warranty passed over, would it be a bit of a gamble and should I have an Engine Rebuild fund on standby?

[BubblesNW]

Budget?
Gen 1 or 2?
Makes a big difference.

[993kimbo]

Whatever's available for £15-20k.

Edited by 993kimbo on Monday 17th September 18:21

[March2008]

Just put a warranty on it. They are awesome cars, and have a massive following on here, plus planet 9. I wouldn't worry at all, get one with all the stamps, good condition, and enjoy.

I'd sell you mine, but it's not for sale! 4 years happy motoring.

[993kimbo]

How do I put a warranty on it? Do you mean a Porsche one or a third party one?

[leemanning]

I don't think you're mad to buy privately. Within your price range there will be some dogs, so just follow usual car buying rules.

Buy on condition and spec as opposed to simply looking at mileage.

You can buy a third party warranty from places like warrantywise or warranty direct etc.

They are excellent cars and if you can find one with full service history (2 years/20k) and nicely spec'd in good condition then you should be fine. Very robust sports cars in general, a great buy at under £20k.

[993kimbo]

Thanks, I didn't know a private individual could buy a warranty.

Warrantywise looks very good at £1000 a year.

Things don't seem so scary after all....

[Klippie]

I bought my 987.2 CS private there is nothing to be scared off....that is as long as you are sensible and have it checked over. I insisted the car was taken to an OPC and the 111 point check carried out, my thinking was if it failed the owner fixes everything or I walk away and if it passed I would buy it and ask the owner to put a warranty on it on my behalf...win win situation.

As with any car purchase pick it to death any scratches, dents, marks, worn tyres etc is money off the asking price...it just a car after all...

[spyderman8]

Have a pre-perchase inspection done by someone like Peter Morgan then if the car is "standard" (no third-party tweaks) put it into the Porsche GB warranty scheme. I personally wouldn't spend that sort of money on a third-party warranty.

[BubblesNW]

There is a Gen 1 3.4S at OPC Wilmslow for less than £20k. It may have 60k miles but you get a 2 year warrantee. Othewise, there are another 10+ cars in the classifieds. Once inspected you can always get it on the maintenance plans of Hartech, S&C or similar which gives peace of mind.