Most supercars need mobile mechanics to restore life to them when theydump oil on the road or fry their wiring looms on a
stormy night. Notthe Porsche 911.Not only is it one of the most sublime driver's cars ever, it is alsosuperbly built and extraordinarily reliable. It is a used supercar thatyou can buy with confidence - as long as you know what to look for.There is a wide range of models available in the so-called 996 series,which replaced the old 993 in 1997. Even the base 911 Carrera 2 coupeis brilliant, but you can also have a Cabriolet, a four-wheel-driveCarrera 4, a Targa, a 420bhp Turbo, a body-kitted GT3 and a hardcore462bhp GT2. There is also a Tiptronic semi-automatic option.For best value a Carrera C4S (turbo looks for loads less) isthe one to contemplate. The flat-six engine in the tail (watercooled inthe 996 model, a first for the 911) is very reliable if properly caredfor. Treat signs of oil leaks with caution, however.With so much power going through the rear axle and so much weight overit, the rear end needs careful checking. A whining noise from the driveshafts indicates problems.Those big wheels tend to get kerbed regularly. Bad kerbing canlead to suspension
damage. If you feel any judder from the front end,or the steering pulls to one side, or the front tyres have uneven wear,these are strong warning signs. Tyre wear is severe, especially at therear - expect to fork out about £550 for a rear pair.The 911's body is exquisitely made. It should have no signs of damageanywhere and the paintwork should be perfect. Be highly suspicious ofbig panel gaps and paint problems, as they are likely to betrayprevious accident damage. The front 'bonnet' is often dented whereowners have tried to slam it shut on tall luggage.Parts prices are often surprisingly affordable (£15 for an air filterand £10 for an oil filter, for example). Servicing at a main dealer isnot expensive, either - £250 at 12,000
miles, £400 at 24,000 miles and£500 at 48,000 miles. Always insist on a full Porsche service historyand always get a Porsche expert to check the car over. If an owner usessynthetic oil only, that is a sign of good care.