The Research

As anyone who knows anything about buying a performance car you need to do your research to make sure you know what you're getting into.

How much is it going to cost to run and buy ? What model, year, mileage and options etc.

Couple of valuable resources

911uk forum
Pistonheads
And I also brought the excellent 996 Ultimate Buyers Guide from Amazon.

I was originally planning to go for an early 2000 model but after some reading I decided to go for something a little newer as after 2001 the facelift model came in with larger engine and other updates. Cost a few £K more but I think it's money well spent.

So looking at year, mileage combos on Parkers I decided on a 2001\2002 996 Carrera 2. Manual with about 60-70,000 miles on the clock.

Colour. Black or possibly Seal Grey. With Black or Grey leather interior.

Options wise. 18" wheels seem a must. But not interested in the Sat\Nav (PCM1) as it's rubbish on the pre 2003 cars, PSM (Stability Management) would be good to have.

But apart from that the car seems well enough spec'd to start with.

I read up on what was what on the 911uk forum, and from the buyers guide worked out what to look for when inspecting a car, common faults etc.

I done my sums, worked out what was what and started the search.