[88carrera]

Merry Christmas everyone:

Skip,

I was recently in the same position as you: back and forth between a 2005-2008 or get a 2009.

I have decided I will take the plunge in 2016 with a 2009. The 2009's are still more expensive but I can't take a chance on possibly spending $15,000+ for a new engine/rebuild. (My realized savings for buying an older model have just evaporated).

With the M96/97 engine the real concern is not IMS but bore scoring. The the 9A1 so far has been very well received and we are now coming up on seven years. I haven't heard of any major chronic issue.

At least I have peace of mind and not that sinking feeling that any engine issue may be IMS or bore scoring. And if catastrophe does occur whether to spend money replacing an engine in a 9, 10, 11 year old chassis.

It's a shame that I have to exclude the '05-'08 for what is otherwise a terrific car and a pcar bargain.

I know there a lots of people driving them with nary a problem, but financially it's easier (safer) for me to spend more now (and finance a bigger note) than to scrape together $15,000+ if it happens.

My .02 cents.