We get lots of questions from readers wondering if they can “afford” a Porsche? Usually, they’re referring to the actual purchase price. We’re always quick to remind them that if they’re wondering if they can afford to purchase a Porsche, then they definitely need to take all the other costs of ownership into consideration. After all, the initial expense of purchasing a Porsche, or any car for that matter, is just the first factor of many in determining its “affordability”. You can’t forget about items like insurance, gas, routine maintenance, tires, etc. All of these can add up over the course of year and really increase your total cost of ownership.
The video above is a straight forward, no nonsense approach to looking at the costs associated with running a 2013 911 (991.1) over the course of 14 months. While some of the numbers won’t work for everyone (items like insurance and fuel costs vary greatly depending upon where you live) and I’m not sure his comparison to the AAA numbers is 100% (as the depreciation curve between a used car a new car is considerably different) it’s still a good indication of what to expect. The only other factor to keep in mind is that the 911 discussed in this video is Certified Pre-Owned. That means that all the smaller problems he’s had with his 911 were covered under warranty (and there were quite a few of them).
What do you think, is this a fairly accurate representation of the cost of ownership of a more modern 911?
View Comments (3)
On my '12 991S Porsche at 2 yr service (about 15k mi) Porsche did brake fluid flush, updated software and few other checks at Cost of $750. A basic oil/filter change is about $250. All other costs within 5-10% of my costs. Good job!
This is my video! Thanks for posting it! It's really cool to see it featured on flatsixes.com!
I was really surprised to see that the running costs weren't as expensive as I anticipated compared to a normal everyday car. Those AAA numbers analyzed the first five years of ownership on new cars so I think they are fairly accurate. I do expect the costs to rise a bit once some wear & tear items (clutch, brakes, etc.) need to be replaced, but I agree with what you say about the CPO! I think it's crucial to keep the costs of ownership down. Repair on my car would have been through the roof it wasn't in warranty!
-JP&Co
In my opinion, the only 'true' Porsche is the iconic, one-and-only 911. With a nod to this article regarding "Cost of Ownership," the only 911 I could reasonably 'afford' to buy would be a used (excuse me...pre-owned) 911. About a year ago, I located a "pre-owned" 911 Carrera C4S (997.2) in Texas. After some soul-searching, and more than a bit of trepidation, I decided to go for it. Flew there one-way, did the deal, and drove her (1500+ miles) back home within 2 days. That drive (as a first time 911 owner) back to SoCal was an epic journey, and an amazing road trip that I will remember fondly for many years to come. The leap of faith came in trusting that this Carrera C4S was mechanically sound, and capable of making such a long drive without breaking down. Risky Business if you like. Chances are, this was the longest single trip this 911 ever made. She passed with flying colors, and made me a True Believer in the process. One drive will convince you. Yes indeed. Porsche: There is No Substitute.