bw1999

I have a 2001 996TT that I really enjoy. I am toying with the idea of getting a well-cared for 911 SC. I would love to know comparisons and whether I am making a huge mistake from other 996TT owners. Is it more fun without the babysitters, or so harsh and slow in comparison that you don't enjoy the SC. I do NOT have an opportunity to drive the car now, or I would check it out myself. Also looking for longer term impressions.

Thanks All

B

petron5000

I own a 1981 SC targa. I love them both. When the weather is nice and around town, I prefer driving the Targa. During the cooler months or at the track I love the 996TT.

I think its its a great combo!

Mike Roblin

In addition to my 996 turbo I also have a ROW 1979 911SC targa and I love that car. It was my first 911 (though not my first Porsche) and if you consider the performance based on when it was originally produced it is really pretty awesome. Will it be a disappointment compared to your turbo? I guess that depends on your perspective.

The SC will be slower in every measurable way but at least for me, it has such personality that I could never sell it. I like the sounds and smells it makes and the steering is telepathic since it is without power steering. The car is damn reliable too being that it is basically the same internals/case from the 930 turbo with the exception of high compression pistons instead of the low compression ones in the turbo.

Don't get me wrong, I love my 996 turbo too, but it is just such a different kind of car with its modern interior and size. The SC feels like 7/8th scale in comparison and is about 600 lbs lighter which makes it still a ton of fun to drive.

I also have driven some of the G50 3.2L cars and though the transmission is nicer than the 915 box, the car just didn't have the same pep to it. Not sure if that's a gearing thing or what but the SC just felt more visceral.

"02996ttx50

i also had a 79 sc and it was a classic beauty even when new, and certainly still is. look how the new 911 targa's harken back.

that said, neither compare to porsche's twin turbo's.

but as 2nd 911 for your garage? sure.

Carlo_Carrera

Are you going to sell the 996TT to buy the SC?

bw1999

Thanks all for your comments. I am NOT going to sell the 996TT, and I was hoping you all would say basically what you're saying: it's a lot of fun but a different experience. And not "you'll hate it cause it's too slow."

BTW- I'm guessing a leak down and compression test are worthwhile (in addition to "standard" PPI). Has a recently rebuilt motor but seems worth the money to be safe.

Carlo_Carrera

I think you would enjoy a 87-89 Carrera 3.2 more than an SC. Basically the same car but more powerful and IMHO better in every way.

autobonrun

I have a 79 SC targa. April of this year I will have had it 33 years. I guess that says how good they are. Engine has never been rebuilt. 214k miles. Headers and dual out exhaust. You just need to keep the revs up to enjoy it. There's a photo of it in post #21 of the link.


https://rennlist.com/forums/996-turb...-shipping.html

911mhawk

SC didn't need babysitters, unplug PSM and take your turbo to the track if you want excitement.

I've considered getting an 84-89 rag top too but they are expensive now for what they are. A convertible wouldn't be an old toy that I like looking at but every time I drive am reminded of how far technology has come.
Still I want one like I want a 63-67 vette, well done cobra rep (AC or stang), 55-57 chev, 59-64 caddy, K5 blazer, early bronco, etc....

Get what you want, just don't overpay for an old slow car(hoping they'll go down a little).

WPOZZZ

I've had an 85 RoW Carrera and an 80 sc. I preferred the sc because it was torquier, and had a much lighter steering feel. The Carrera felt more GT when compared to the sc. I have a 77 930 along with my 996tt and they drive very differently. I prefer the na 911sc as it is more fun to drive a slow car fast, than driving a fast car slow.

Carlo_Carrera

I am referring to 87-89 3.2 Carreras only, not an 85. But I know some others who agree with your SC preference.

I have also owned both an SC and a 3.2. The 87-89 3.2 is a better drive IMHO thanks in part to the Getrag G50 trans and not GT feeling to me.

bw1999

Most of the 87-89 3.2s I have seen in decent shape are beyond what I'm willing to spend right now, but thank you for the advice.

jimq

I have a 964 C2. I drive it more than I do the TT. Of course being a cab in Florida where the top usually only goes up if I am caught in the rain could be the reason. It does have more road feel than the TT and the lack of boost makes it feel slow but it still is a very fun car to drive plus the GF likes riding in it more than the TT.

cbracerx

I have a 1980 Wessach SC with a track suspension, carbs, crank fire, SSI's and sport exhaust. I also added AC delete

15x7/8 wheels with 205/225s. It's tremendous fun on the street and a keeper.

Carlo_Carrera

^ A Wessach, sweet.