It s hard not to have a soft spot for Porsche. If you re a luxury car enthusiast, you ll already be familiar with the reputation that Porsche have built upon their unique designs and top end engineering. From tractors to the Boxter, the Porsche identity is one that encompasses prestige and distinction on every level.
You may be glad to know that I m not going to talk about their contribution to the agricultural machinery market (although if I were looking for a used Porsche for under £10,000 I would seriously consider buying a vintage Porsche tractor, along with a field, just to have the pleasure of hurtling about at 20mph). But the Good Life dream will have to wait a little while longer, because there has never been a better time to invest in a luxury sports car. With the recent economic crises, the price of a used Porsche has become an attractive possibility for more people than ever before.
The used Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet that I took out for a spin one sunny day in June was ideally suited to the weather. With the roof down and the cheeky handling making it a joy to be in the driving seat, it was easy to wonder whether it was a one climate wonder. Purring through town (it s only fair to let everyone gawp at such a sterling motor), I was aware of heads turning. In a new or used Porsche you will definitely be looked at, you may even get small children waving and the occasional thumbs up from other drivers. It s not a brand for the wallflower.
If you re looking for a family car that will fit a month s shopping in the boot, I must advise that you look elsewhere. The charm of the 911 Turbo Cabriolet lies in its sense of freedom, the release from restriction that comes with having the wind in your hair and a superbly responsive car under your control. Being lucky enough to live in a semi rural area, it was a short hop from the town centre to quiet country roads. And that s where the 911 really came alive. I felt that I could drive it all day, but sadly it did have to be returned to the dealership before they closed. Having experienced the challenges and rewards of taking it through different environments, I was convinced that even the greyest, most miserable day wouldn t impact the little used Porsche s spirit.
It s certainly not the car for everyone, and may be seen as an indulgence. But the used Porsche that I had in my greedy little paws for a few hours that day made driving feel like a pleasure rather than a chore, and I personally view such outlay as an investment rather than a frivolity. If you re in the position to take possession of a luxury sports car, a used Porsche is definitely worth looking into. As with any vehicle, look for an approved used Porsche dealer, and if you do fall in love with a model take it for a thorough test drive before committing to purchase.