i'll have to me too with a C4S...
ideally 2002 C4S so you can put a nice simple in dash navigation system

 

This what I got for that price range. 2003 996 (Factory GT3 Aero Kit) with 40k Miles.




The interior is all black leather.
Options List:
Factory Options:
Aerokit (GT3 MkII)
Alcantara Headliner
Xenon Headlights
Bose Premium Soundsystem
Porsche Sport Exhaust System
Porsche Stability Management System
M030 Sport Suspension
“Thick” Steering Wheel
Power Adjustable Seats
Sunroof
Power Steering
Air Condition
18” Carrera 5-spoke Aluminum Wheels (SOLD)
Pirelli P-Zero Tires (SOLD)

Aftermarket Options:
K&N Air Charger Intake
JIC/Cross FLT2 15-way Adjustable Suspension
GT3 Sway Bars
“Clear Bra” on front of car
19” Carrera “Lobster Claw” Wheels – Gloss Black
Pilot Sport Cup Tires (SOLD)
B&M Short-shift Kit
Rennline Aluminum Pedals
TechArt Front Spoiler
Performance Friction DirectDrive Front Rotors
Stainless Steel Brake Lines
GT3 Cup Brake Difusers
Sirius Satellite Radio
Fire Extinguisher

 

You had a C55 AMG? If so, you will probably find the regular 911 Carrera too be way too slow. Unfortunately, I've driven the 996 C2 and they are painfully slow with no torque to speak of. Turbo is the only way to go. You can buy a low mileage 2001 911 turbo for that money, definitely go with that. Then get an ecu reflash and you'll have a very fast 450hp Porsche that you'll enjoy driving every day! Something like this is what I recommend:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2001-...QQcmdZViewItem

 

I wouldn't say painfully slow. I have driven many "painfully" slow cars (my first car-1972 Puke Green Ford Maverick). I guess it all depends on what he is looking for in a car.

 

I'd get a nice 2002+ C2 for mid-upper 30s and keep the change ....

 

Actually I have a C55 AMG that I'm going to trade in or sell outright. I am a bit concerned that a base C2 might not have the grunt that I'm looking for. That 5.5L V8 is a monster and really gets it.

I originally wanted a 997 C2S however that's out of my budget, however I'm kinda leaning towards a mint 996 C4S. I'd love one in red but I think I'll take my time and do some more searching.

 

Oh quick question.... do all 911's come with sunroofs? I want a sunroof but not a cabriolet unless it's absolutely mint or a steal of a price.

 

You could even swing a higher mileage turbo for around that price.

Edit: after reading the thread, sounds like you want a really fast car for that price. Turbo it is. C4S is a beautiful car but has been described as a Turbo with the hand brake up as far as the driving experience. As others said just take your time and read the threads. You are not the first one that has asked a question like this.

 

+ 996 Turbo. You will never regret it.

 

I drove a tt today and will tell you the power is definitely night and day. Has me thinking about changing to a tt.
Let the games begin!

 

you'll be hard-pressed to find a 996TT for $45K. i'd trade my C4S today if i could find a 996TT for that price.

 

I think I'm going to search for a C4S. I love the look of the Turbo but it's out of my price range and I want lower maintenance.

 

Actually, when I bought my 2003 996 C2, I found several 996TTs below $45k, and that was over a year ago. You would be surprised at how fast the price can drop on them. Granted, most of the ones I found at that price were high mileage, 60k+, but it's been a year. I bet you could find a 996TT for $45k.

Your upkeep and insurance costs will increase dramatically. That is what finally pushed me away from the TT. I'm glad I steered clear, as I really didn't understand the impact of tires, gas, detailing, and other maintenance costs until I had my C2 for 6 months or so.

 

Get a C4s, I just got one a few months ago, and I went from a 500 hp supercharged M3, and I still never look back to the M3.

The 4s is still pretty quick, the thing is that it has plenty of power for going in the canyons or spirited driving, I think it is the perfect Porsche for a first, the turbo is a little overkill, but obviously it is better.

-Alex

 

I don't see how upkeep would be that much worse aside from more gas since it has slightly worse MPG ratings. Additionally, its engine is more bulletproof than the 996 NA is I remember correctly.