When to get a PPI (pre-purchase inspection)?

[thr_wedge]

I've only bought 1 used car in the last 7 years, and it was a $1000 heap that didn't run but was worth the $$$ in parts alone.

So...I'm thinking of selling said heap for $2000 and on the lookout for another car, this one to be a little bit nicer.

At what point do you get a PPI? $5,000 car? $10,000 car? $15,000 car?

I'm on the fence between an E30 or E36 to turn into a track beater or an air cooled 911 (probably pre '89) less beater, still for track use. The BMWs go for about $5,000 and the 911s go for $15-20k. I've seen the BMWs drop below $3k for really "well used" models, the 911s never seem to get below $10k for anything worth buying.

So...when would you get the PPI? Seems like the cheaper cars sell so fast that people are not having them professionally inspected, so the seller isn't going to want to deal with holding the car while you get an appointment, yadda, yadda, they'll just sell the car to someone cash in hand and ready to buy as-is...

Any other advice?

Thanks guys!

 

[MrCritical]

I'd have any high line import inspected, if the price was reasonable.

 

[Solo2driver]

I would stay away from the 911, having raced a few earlier cars in the past few years some of the basic maintenance and wear items, especially for the track, can be cumbersome and labor-intensive. That, and honestly they are not that fun to drive...a 944 or 951 handles and stops much better, has cheaper parts, and IMO wins on the looks department too. The 911 is always chasing handling quirks unless you are prepared to spend some $$ for the "right" setup.

That being said, a good E36 that is pre-1996 are great values, handle quite well, good power (325 will make about 160hp to the wheels with i/h/e, 225hp with M3 cams and chip), fantastic ABS brakes, and have great support. Unless you are looking to build a SpecE30, I'd start with the more "modern" look and chassis to avoid that Track Beater Look while still having a cheap and fast racecar.

I helped my buddy with the buildup of his JP-class BWMCCA road racecar ('92 325is, nothing special, but a great starting point!!), let me know if you need anything further via PM.