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We have driven a 1997 965 since acquiring it in May of 2005 when it had 128K miles.
Under their skin, the 1998 S/V90 is practically the same as the 1995-96-97 964 and 965. They are badged just 960, however.
The car is smooth, powerful, quiet, a joy to drive and reasonably fuel efficient.
The B6304 engine is far far less forgiving than a red-block engine. Maintenance such as the timing and serpentine belts and their tensioners is not to be deferred. Loss of timing belt = loss of engine.
Therefore getting a car with really good records becomes more important.
The car loves synthetic fluids, especially motor oil but also trans fluid. Maybe brake fluid and rear axle fluid, too. At 185K miles mine uses about one or two quarts of oil between the 5K oil changes. It is on Mobil-1 5W-40.
It is full of computers. Tranny, HVAC, ABS, engine ignition and fuel control, and amybe more. The electric-controlled tranny AW30/40 is nice. Set it for economy, sport or winter. AND, if you do slip it into reverse when moving forward at over 5mph, nothing happens. Also, slipping it into neutral while in cruise control merely drops out the CC, rather than causing the engine to race as in my 240.
Check out many of them before making a buying decision. The replacement of the timing and serpentine belts and their tensioners can run about $1,000 so if the seller sez it was done, get proof.
Look for sagging at a corner. Front suspension bushings are soft and maybe shorter-lived that your 740. Rear shocks are a breeze, but the rear spring is unique. Single piece of fiberglass, like a thick leaf spring, mounted across the car. Even though the car has independent rear suspension, replacing that spring can be a deal-killer.
Good Luck,
Bob
:>)
PS: Consider the wagon version. I think it's a nice-looking vehicle. Mine has the Euro roof rack and a little extension at the top of the cargo door.
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