Which older 911 to buy?

I personally like the 86-89 vintage. They are great cars when taken cars of properly. It may be difficult to find low mileage cars in a cost effective price range, especially for an 86. Seeing as I have never owned one I can't give you cost of ownership, etc. but I have read good reviews about the 86 911 and I have driven one and loved it. I also like they styling of that generations 911. Good luck!

only warning I would give is that air-cooled 911's are tricky in stop and go traffic on hot days. Very easily over-heated. personally I'd get a newer water cooled 911 but then again that will be more expensive. I like the 997 model era vs. the 996 (as the headlights look nicer). I'd get a 2006 Carrera S. A 2006 S with 70k miles would go for about $45k according to CarGurus. You can check out the pricing for this type of car below http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/2006-Porsche-911-Price-c5777

and also the're only about 600 of those engines built.

The 1996-1997 993 model with 3.6 varioram engine is the best aircooled standard 911. Has most of the modern amenities but retains the original 911 feel. I've owned many versions of 911 from '86 to a 2002 Turbo, but the 1997 993 was my favourite