Getting a new car

[peterjoyce]

I have a 04 Boxster and will be getting a new car this spring. I will be trading in an 02 Lexus, for whatever car I decide on. The 997 and a Maserati Coupe are the two Im thinking about. Does anyone know how the Maserati coupe drives or how relable it is? What would make the 997 better? If I were to order/pick up a 997 that has a sticker of $75,000 how much could I buy it for? Thanks.

[aak5454]

A Porsche is a Porsche. No further explaination. A Maserati is.....well, just another car that many people have not heard of.

As for dealing, to quote the CEO of Porsche AG from a few years back after PCNA sent out some unauthorized coupons good towards new car purchases to PCA members...."discounting tarnishs the brand". Given this is premier year for the 997, I would guess you are going to pay sticker (or more).

Happy car hunting :drive:

[florindi]

That's not true! I am also looking at both models. Everyone knows what a Maserati is, it's been around a lot longer than Porsche. They are two different cars. It's all about how it drives. Because if you are basing it on prestige, then the Maserati definitely wins! Also, you can get discounts on 997 and 997s. You just need to travel a bit to get the deal. I know Because I am deciding this next week which one will be in my garage the following week.

[de36band]

If you are getting a coupe get the Porsche, if however you want to put the top all the way down the M spyder has had my eye for along time.

Doug

[peterjoyce]

Thanks.

[peterjoyce]

florindi, what did you go with?

[rss996]

I got 2k off my 74500 sticker price.....Blk/Blk 997 with sport chrono, xenons, sport shifter,19's,electric seats.

Low optioned 997's are selling pretty fast compared to over optioned ones here in so cal.

[peterjoyce]

Have fun!

[florindi]

I went with the Porsche 997S. I could take the depreciation hit that others are seeing with the Maserati! It's a nice car but I hate to throw money away.

[VS1]

Drive them both and decide. I looked at the same two cars - but they are very different. The Maserati is more of a GT car - while the Porsche is more of a pure sports car. So, it really comes down to what you want.

The coachwork in the Maserati is far superior to the Porsche and it has that italian car sound [although much subdued compared to a Ferrari, etc]. Rear seat is larger and trunk is very usable. It does have the quirky italian driving position [pedals are little off-set towards the center of the car] but that's something you get used to very quickly. As far as depreciation, there are plenty of good 1 year old cars to be had with 3000-5000 miles for a decent discount. The Maserati still has the depreciation curve of a falling brick, so personally, I would go used on this unless you will be keeping the car for long enough. I tested both the 6-speed and the Cambiocorsa and personally, prefer the 6-speed. The F1 gearboxes still are not that smooth under normal [street] driving profiles.

The Porsche is a much tighter drive. It just has a sports car feel vs. a touring car. In comparison, it's not nearly as practical or as luxurious with its typical German [utilitarian] interior. But, depends on what you are looking for. My decision was easy, I drove them both and I went with the 911. Since you are keeping the Boxster and, presumably, are replacing a Lexus - if you are looking for a nice touring car - the Maserati will treat you well. If you want another real sports car - the two really don't compare and the Porsche [iMHO] wins hands down.

[peterjoyce]

I see what you mean when you say, "The Maserati still has the depreciation curve of a falling brick," so i I am going to eep an eye out for a used one. If I get his car you will save me about $30,000! by getting one used. If nothing comes up in a couple months Im just going to go with a 997.

The build quality is superior on both, the 997 is sportier, but the Coupe is more luxurious. I also like that fact the Maserati dosent draw much attention. Well thanks for all input.