ajalt911

My '78 911SC Targa was originally Petrol Blue, but it was repainted prior to 1995 when I got it. It wasn't a bad job (lasted till now) but it's not Petrol Blue. I'm in the process of a glass out repaint (everything but engine compartment) and would like to get back more toward the original color, but with a "modern" paint formula. I'm almost always in favor of stock, but this car has already been slightly modified in dashboard replacement color, seat recovers, etc. My questions are:

1. Is there a compelling reason for me to go back to stock (Petrol Blue), or can I go slightly different (Venetian Blue)?
2. As to paint formulations, is it "acceptable" to use a state of the art paint/clearcoat computer color matched?
3. Would genuine Porsche paint make any substantial difference (other than price)?

Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems

Generally speaking, these cars retain their highest value with the original color, however you should do whatever you want as long as you don't make such a decision in a bubble.

I would use Sikkens or Glasurit paints for the same reasons.

Value degradation can be 25% for non-original color and paint formulations.

ajalt911

Thanks Steve. I forgot to mention that this car will never leave my family, so resale isn't the most critical factor. My painter and I have tentatively "agreed" that serious Porschephiles will recognize the alterations, but think that will be acceptable if they and every serious painter also see an impeccably applied deep-look finish. The Venetian Blue in a multi clear coat seems a reasonable compromise.

911Dave

I agree with Steve's assessment, though the car will be devalued somewhat, even if you return it to the original color, because it won't be the original factory paint. If you're not concerned with resale value then I highly recommend you paint it whatever color you want and forget about originality. Never is a long time, and we all think we'll keep our cars forever. Almost no one does. Just make sure it's good quality paint and the job is done right, and there's nothing else to worry about.

BTW, Venetian Blue is a very nice color, especially with a tan interior

Starbuckslova1

I can't add to what was said. They both hit it nailed it. However if your keeping the car for a while, paint it a color you like. I think your car would look awesome in horizon blue

Starbuckslova1

Cobalt blue is real nice too

ajalt911

Thanks for the input. I'll look at the Horizon and Cobalt blues as well.

Starbuckslova1

Here's horizon blue 964

Starbuckslova1

Here's horizon blue 964

Starbuckslova1

Darker blues that would look good

Baltic blue
Amazon blue
They would go real nice with your car

ajalt911

Thanks everyone. The site listed provides nice examples of all the options. I'm leaning upgraded stock (Petrol Metallic)

https://gearpatrol.com/2018/08/17/de...e-porsche-911/

myflat6

Petrol Blue is such a classic late 70's early 80's color. When I was searching for my SC it was one of the colors I wanted.

993PET

Petrol Blue is an awesome color in person and quite rare, I would keep the car original. For paint brand Glasurit Line 55 (base, clear) will give you the most original version of the factory color. It's expensive but worth it.

Joseph

Auto_Werks 3.6

Another vote for painting it a color that you want to look at.... However I LOVE petrol blue, and those cars almost always seem to bring a premium because they are rare, and neat looking.