Mitch,
Have had my share of Porsches in the past, from a 356 Carrera 2 to a slant-nose turbo. For the money you want to spend try to not go under a 87 911 Carrera as they were the first with the G50 gearbox. The turbo used them starting in 89, first five speed, below that were all four speed. A stock turbo has so much turbo lag that it's uncomfortable to drive around town, dangerous pulling out into traffic!
Great car on the open road but expensive for maintenance as the 'turbo' clicks on the cash register at shops. There isn't much access to the motor in it until you pull the intercooler which should have dzus fasteners on.

Yes they do handle quite differently but if you run a few autocrosses or time trials you will get the feel. I've won at the Porsche Parade and drove a 2.5L 911 in IMSA back in the good ole days, fun car. With 1975 lbs and 275 horses it would do 168 at Daytona, at night too!

The G50 gearbox has much better synchros than the old 915 box and they will last longer as well as shift smoother. If you look at an early Carrera 2 (90-91) watch out for cylinder sealing on the case. There was a problem that is expensive to repair and many were done under warranty and some had to EAT it. It involves a motor teardown and new piston/cylinder assemblies$$$

As with any expensive car, best to get an opinion by an experienced shop and the car's paper trail. Worth it to pay a little up front than a bunch later. Maybe a seller would split the cost of an inspection as if you don't purchase the car he would have a copy to show later on.

Good luck,
Tobias MB
4 MBs, one a 190/5.6!