So, here's one I'm watching closely on BringATrailer: A 2002 Porsche 911 Cabriolet.
Why a 996 cabriolet you ask? Well this one is a little bit different: it has a replacement 4.1 liter flat six engine built by Slakker Performance!
Behold, the goods! A 4.1 Liter Slakker engine. Shiny paint shows off the blue jeans well.
Yes, according to the selling dealer, MohrImports, the car suffered an IMS bearing failure which necessitated a new engine. Per the included receipt, that engine set the previous owner back $32,500 while giving the car a .5 liter displacement bump and a 60 horsepower boost.
That's a BIG chunk of change, but man, I bet that convertible can scoot!
Additionally, it had $14,000 worth of further service which included tires, new clutch, power steering pump and convertible top latch mechanism.
The reason I am watching this with earnest is because I'm curious what the impact the new engine and all that service will have on price. Because right now, the car has had roughly $47,000 spent on it. Wow.
Great example of a 996 Cabriolet. But you better like black!
The car itself isn't exactly...unique. It's a 996 convertible, which in 996 World is typically the least desirable. It is a 996.2 which featured the arguably better looking headlights. Plus, it's a manual, so some additional bonus points there.
Another big positive, is that it only has 58k miles, and the pictures seem to reflect that it's in good condition overall. But other than that, it's actually a pretty low option car aside from some heated seats.
Looks pretty good in here.
So what we have is this really interesting combination of low mileage, good condition base car, with a really expensive engine.
If this car were to come to auction with the original engine, I'd expect somewhere in the low to mid 20s.
But at time of writing this, the bids are already up to $36,500 and there is a day to go. Looks like a good chunk of that expense is going to be recouped! Or is it re-cabrioleted? Groan........
How much more though? $50,000 is approaching low-end 996 Turbo territory, and that car is nothing to sneeze at. Does that car get close to that? Or is somewhere in the $40k's more likely?
I'll be watching this at the close and I hope you do, too. And if you're the seller or winner, give me a shout, I'd love to know more about the car.
