Thanks guys.
As you know, there are some areas of our 968s that are commonly found to be in only fair to poor condition. Also, these "items" are difficult and expensive to fix.
The high price on this car is due to its literal "as new" condition (and complete lack of issues/"picks"). For example:
The rear hatch on the Himberot 968 is perfect!!!! This is rare. As such, the hatch trim is still "showroom new" matte black and secure (at all 7 points per side). The "black coating" that lines the outer edge under the glass is original, un-touched, even and immaculate!!!! (you 968ers know how freaking bloody rare this attribute is).
The wing is secure, firm and flawless. The hatch gas struts are original with plenty of life; and the top hinge is "as new." Lastly, not even a hint of a squeek/sound comes from the rear while driving (let alone anywhere else from this pristine 968)!
BTW, DO NOT be tempted to install aftermarket "life time" struts to your rear hatch (or engine hood)!
Inevitably the travel is not equal; and there is WAY too much pressure in the non-OEM replacements. As such, the aftermarket units "fire" the glass up with one side propped-up higher than the other, which results in DELAMINATING the glass from the top hinge!!!!!! DRAT!!!! Just try to achieve an original OEM "fix" for this issue after years of abuse!
When considering a 944/968, one of the first "details" I check after verifying "no accidents/no paintwork," is the rear hatch, wing, glass, trim and hinge. Take note of this when viewing a potential purchase.
Next up, the glove box "side stops." These fragile items seem to be made from "break away" plastic. An OEM replacement means a whole new glovebox door (e.g., the stops are molded in). Yes, yes, yes, I know about the $12-$25 "Zimms" and other aftermarket "cheapy" fixes for this common problem. However, with "cheapies," the glove box "flops" open and in the end, the "fix" is not as Porsche designed or mfg'd.
These are just two small examples/items I check for on a Porsche that I'm considering for purchase (the list goes on and on).
As for a dealer or Porsche Independent that offers a $150-$350 PPI, I've found such services to be completely worthless when pursuing/considering a potential authentic concour/collector candidate.
For me, I'd rather "pay up" a 90-100 point car, than buy-on-price for a "fixer" at a "great deal" price (with a "we've never seen such a good example for a car this old" Dealer/Independent PPI).
Now, please, before you "bash" me for not heralding the merits of a PPI, I realize that such a service has "some" value. However, I only buy the very best (and I am very patient).
Short of the 997 GT3 RS and the world-beating Carrera GT, Porsche simply no longer offers anything I would consider at MSRP. As such, I am relegated to searching and "cherry picking" only the most pristine, original "survivors" that remain in collections (and occasionally "pop up" on the internet), that meet my "show room" new condition standards.
This 968 is easily one of the best. The color looks "nice" in pictures. However, when you seen it in person, it'll grab you (for better or worse). Color aside, this 968 is an amazing survivor in wonderful, pristine, "as new" condition; and yes, it meets my very high/exacting "standards."
my 2 cents,
Porsche
