First Porsche incoming — help me not screw this up
I’ve wanted a Porsche for years and I’m ready to make it happen. Before I dive in headfirst I figured I’d ask the people who actually know these cars — would love some guidance so I don’t make a rookie mistake.
I’m hunting for a manual 981 or 987.2 Cayman or Boxster — either body style works, my girlfriend is actually on board with both which feels like a small miracle. Budget is $30–35k, and I’m open to higher mileage (90–130k) if the service history is clean and the PPI checks out. I have a trusted mechanic who can do substantial work at low cost, so miles don’t scare me the way they might otherwise.
Searching nationally — I know clean manual examples don’t come up every day and I’m willing to wait and travel for the right one.
A few things I’d love your input on:
1. Is $30–35k realistic for a clean manual 981, or should I adjust my expectations and focus on 987.2s at that budget?
2. What mileage is the real inflection point where expensive stuff starts happening on the 981?
3. Any options or specs worth prioritizing — or avoiding?
4. Any hunting grounds beyond CarGurus and PCA classifieds you’d recommend?
Really appreciate any wisdom you can share. Can’t wait to join the club.