While recently we have found an abundance of great cars, this week I bring you just three straight diamonds (plus one absolute bargain for the DIY-ers among you).

I also share alternatives where I could find them: serious contenders for a Plan B, or something a bit different.

As you'll see, I keep tweaking the format. A) I can't help myself, and B) I want to know how many ways there are to talk about affordable Porsches week in and week out while keeping it fresh. (Reply to this email and tell me your favorite format to date.)

Onwards!

RF

🔗 2002 996 911 Carrera | Manual | Clarkston, MI | $32,995

“An immaculate car.”

The seller comes in hot, but then shows the receipts to back it up: 52,500 miles, LN Engineering IMS upgrade still in warranty, new clutch, new rear main seal, new brake pads… Overall a really tidy car with a dream service record, priced below comparable cars in this condition and mileage. It won’t last.

• Mechanical issues? IMS addressed, lots of maintenance done.

• Current market? Around $35,000 for these miles and condition.

• Alternatives? 🔗 This 2002 with double the miles, but substantial savings.

🔗 2007 987.1 Cayman S | Manual | Snohomish, WA | $25,000

A minty Cayman S with serious options that set it apart from other good-looking Guards Red S cars. To name a few: 19" Carrera Classic Wheels, Sport Chrono Package, Preferred Package…

Clean title, 83K miles, and priced below the usual tired grey Cayman S out there.

• Mechanical issues? Review engine for bore scoring.

• Current market? Normally priced between $25-30K, often not in this nice of a condition.

• Alternatives? Nothing this good this week.

🔗 2008 987.1 Boxster | Manual | Addison, TX | $26,995

A Forest Green Metallic over Natural Brown Leather Boxster, with a matching Cocoa convertible top and only 77K miles. Optioned well too: Sport Chrono Package, color crests on the wheels, power seats.

The dealer knows it's a rare spec: They repeat "Forest Green Metallic" every two sentences so you know they know you know."

• Mechanical issues? No explicit mention of title status or accidents, so confirm with dealer before anything else.

• Current market? Under $20K for common specs; add at least $5k for special ones like this.

• Alternatives? 🔗 This cool 2002 Boxster S in Carmona Red Metallic and rare factory hardtop for $17,000.

Out There

What if I told you there's a 996 hiding in the bushes for only $8,400?

And not one of those piles of junk you see on Marketplace. This one runs and drives, has a clean title, and looks better than many $17,000 cars.

It's tired, of course (340K miles, scratches, known mechanical issues), but I've never seen a car this good going for $8K.

This one's for those looking for their next project Porsche.

🔗 2003 996 911 Carrera | Lafayette, CA | $8,400

Adopted Puppies

Porsche Problems

See you next time with more affordable picks!

Take care,

—RF