Sales debate
What are the common entry points to 911 ownership in 2022?
It might be easy to forget that each year, new members join the 911 owners club. But what models are first-time buyers plumping for in 2022?
It should be pointed out that the cheapest way into a 911 is probably the 996 through a private sale, and that will likely remain so. But there are as many types of buyers as there are types of 911, and a dealer purchase is always the safest and best way to find both the right car for each situation, while using their experience to assure the quality of the vehicle. To assess the market Total
911 asked Paragon and Avantgarde Classics, covering everything from air-cooled to nearly new.
Jason Shepherd of Paragon is clear about the buyer wanting the modern end of the market. “The 997 Gen2 is the go-to, really,” he says. “The Gen1 will be cheaper, but the Gen2 is the clear favourite.” Jason points out that the process usually involves lots of talking to the buyer about what they’re expecting from the car. “That guides us to which model might suit them,” he says. “The right 911 for them may be a more affordable version, rather than a higher-spec car like a GTS.”
But not every first 911 is driven by budget or modernity concerns. “Many first 911s are bought around achieving the lifetime goal,” says Jonathan Aucott of Avantgarde Classics. “You definitely get people wanting an old 911 as a first purchase.” In that, the first 911 remains the SC and the 3.2, he says. Until recently the 964 would have been in that group, but their values have edged even over 993s of late. “Budget will dictate the model for some, but buyers tend to know the model they want, from research or the ‘poster car’ effect from their youth,” Jonathan says. “The 3.2 is nimble, the 993 easier to live with every day, but the 964 is the perfect mix of everything, as the market is probably realising,” he adds. “Buyers are more knowledgeable than ever,” Jason agrees. “In the aircooled end of the market, that’s definitely the case.”
A first 911 is always a special car. There’s huge joy to be had in the whole process of learning, looking and asking for advice to find that right car for you. A knowledgeable dealer doesn’t just enable you to compare cars back to back, but the fact they have a car in stock means you’ve benefitted from their experience already. Enjoy the process, take your time, then enjoy your first 911.