Car choice: Caterham or Porsche for fun and investment

Martin Grande is at that time in his life when he wants something exciting and distinctive to drive – but which does not depreciate. What’s the best answer to his conundrum?

Spot the difference: no two Caterhams are exactly alike (Caterham)

A car for the heart

Most cars depreciate, but the clever part is finding one that depreciates to a certain level and then stays there, so at least you will always get most of your money back. The Caterham Seven is pure minimalist fun. Contrary to appearances no two Caterhams are alike: side or rear-exit exhausts, flared or cycle wings, leather, limited slip differential, five- or six-speed gearbox, even a heater could be an option, as well as many engine varities. What’s not an option is falling in love. We found a 2010 Roadsport 125 1.6 which has covered 9,500 miles from a main dealer at £21,495.

Distinctive engine sound and high-performance thrills (Porsche)

A car for the head

Martin told me he loves Porsche 911s, and that model would certainly make a more practical all-weather alternative to the purity of the Caterham. The 993 model from 1994 to 1997 built embodies the company’s tradition of exceptional engineering and truly timeless styling. The air-cooled, ‘flat’ six-cylinder engine not only makes a distinctive sound; certainly no other sports car delivers such high-performance thrills, yet provides consistently reliable transportation. No longer cheap, we found a 1994 Carrera 2 with 91,000 miles at £42,950. This was at a dealer and came with a comprehensive warranty.

If you would like James Ruppert to help with your car choice, email james@freecarmag.com. For more motoring views visit freecarmag.com

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