Maxximo

I'm looking to purchase a 911SC in the next few months. I've read these engines are some of the most solid of all the years. I like the design and the price range seems to fit my budget.

Could anyone please give me some advice on what I would expect to pay? Between 78-83, are there any years that are better or worse? Assuming the vehicle is in good shape, what should I expect to pay in annual maintenance costs? Any advice would help. Thanks in advance to all.

Jay H

Maxximo:

It's been said that you should buy the newest car you can afford. The FAQ section of this website has some great info on the SC's and what changes have occured over the years. <a href="http://tech.rennlist.com/911/911scfaq.html" target="_blank">911SC FAQ's</a>

The August issue of 'excellence' mag lists the market prices of 911SCs. A 1978 SC coupe in poor condition is listed at $11,580 and a 1983 911SC coupe in excellent condition is listed at $20,550. Most I have seen run in the low to mid teens for cars with average miles and in decent condition. You should obviously expect to pay more for a low mileage, mint condition car. Also, I would expect to pay less than that low value I stated above for a very poor car.

My '86 Carrera, which is somewhat similar to the SC models, ran about $100 per month on average for maintenance.

It's probably wise to keep a few thousand dollars (above and beyond the purchase price of the car) in your bank account for any unexpected repairs that will come up.

Good Luck!
Jay
90 964

rayjay...'80SC

Ditto the above. Good, sound advice. I love my SC. I am the third owner and bought a low-mileage, pampered, well-documented creampuff. I also paid a premium price, which probably saved me money in the long run. I have all the service records, upgrades, maintainence, etc. According to Excellence magazine, an '80SC in excellent condition appreciated 17% last year. Good luck and enjoy!!

john d 81SC

PPI!! (Pre-purchase inspection). WHATEVER you do, be certain to have a PPI done. P cars are expensive cars to fix - especially if there is something major that needs to be done. And there are a LOT of marginal cars out there - especially if you don't know what to look for. A PPI from a knowledgeable P mechanic is one of the best investments you can make. Good luck in your search - and have fun. The search process alone can be very instructional, and you'll come away with a better appreciation of what a good P car is.

Scott S

Maxximo:
I just completed my search a year ago after walking away from 7 different SC's. Find a car with complete records, it will tell you all you need to know about annual maintenance costs. The way the car was used also makes a difference. Mine was used less than 1000 miles a year for the last 6 years, tough on certain items. BTW I spent 13k for 83 coupe with records and 90k miles. I hope this helps, good luck.

Gunter

A lot depends on condition, milage and up-dates. Look for Chain tensioner up-date, 930 tie rods, Euro lights, condition of suspension, shocks, tires,etc. Find someone who knows what to look for and do a pre-purchase examination. Look for repair records and history. If there was a rebuild, what was done and who did it. With 911's, you pay one way or the other. If the vehicle has been maintained, you'll pay up front; if it is a cheapo, you'll pay after. Yes, expect a few thousand $ for extras. Learn as much as you can from books and hands-on experience. If you cannot do it yourself, find a good experienced mechanic. My 1980 SC was good overall, but needed work on suspension and engine. But once everything is done, the comparison in performance is very noticable. Since I bought it, I have spent CAN$7000.- and need to do a little more. But what a joy. Waiting for spring. Snowed-in in B.C.

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