atb

Hello Everyone,

I have a friend in the Portland Oregon area who is in the market for a 911. He has a budget of $25K. I'm wondering if anyone knows of any good websites that might have pointers on what to look for, different model years, etc.

I will be sure that he has a PPI done (any recommendations for a reputable shop?) before he inks the check, but it would be helpful if he knew about any maintenance/wear items that are particular to the 911.

I'm sure that as with any Porsche, he should try to buy the latest model he can afford. Assuming that he's NOT looking for a targa, cabrio, or turbo, what model/year would be in his budget?

Thanks for any info.

JackOlsen

He could get a very clean 1989-1994 (964) for 25K, possibly with enough money left over for the after-PPI surprises. If he's willing to work and wait, he could even get into a 1995-1998 (993) for that money.

earlyapex

Your friend needs to take his time and ask himself what he is looking for. That budget will get him into several models. I like the Porsche Market Letter and Excellence magazine. He needs to budget for the PPI and save a couple grand to fix things that didn't show up in the PPI.

umfan866

Adam,

A 911 type-993 might be the best choice because it was the last of the air-cooled engines, has the round headlights (now back in vogue with the launch of type 997 for '05) and good build quality and reliability. But it really comes down to personal choice. You or your friend should spend some time reading posts in all 3 of thiese air-cooled forums: 911 (75-88), 964 (89-94), and 993 (95-98). It might even be worth a peak in the 996 forum just to see how those folks regard the older models (there is a good thread called '993 versus 996' going on now in one of those forums). In addition, I suggest going to your local bookstore or library and buying a book on the history of 911's which are readily available. I was able to get up to speed on the different models in about a weekend of reading & looking at 1 or 2 cars. I used to think of all 911's as the same, but now that I know the insider terminology, referring to them by their project number (e.g 993, 997) I look at them as very different cars.

atb

Thanks to all for your input and PM's. I happened to dig up the August issue of Excellence that had the market report on the '74-'89 911 series. The article speaks highly of the '84 to '89 Carreras, particularly the '87-'89 G50 units. Those seem to be well within my friend's price range.

As a 928 owner who does all of my own wrenching, I'm well acquainted with how much attention a mechanically and electrically complicated Porsche can demand. My friend is not mechanically inclined, and will be having his car serviced by a pro, so I want to make sure he gets into a good example of what he chooses for his money. It would be a disaster to get him into a car that required a lot of corrective maintenance off the bat. I think the 3.2 Carrera looks to be a good fit from what I've read so far. Reliable running gear, and they seem to still be pretty simple electronically compared to the 964's and 993's. This would not be a daily driver for him, although I'm sure he would drive it often.

Thanks again for everyone's input. If anyone of you ever needs any advice regarding 928's (was that a collective "what in the world for?" I heard out there? , feel free to give me a PM or mosey on over to the 928 Forum.

JackOlsen

You really can't go wrong with any member of the 911 line. But I'd suggest you make sure he at least drives a couple of 3.6's. The difference between that motor and the 84-89 3.2 (particularly with regard to torque) is dramatic.

HarryD

Besides some of the web sites, a visit to the shops that specialize in Porsches would be in order too. They may know of a good example for sale and, obviously, would be a good contact for local PPIs and subsequent servicing.

Before your friend goes much further, a bit of time thinking on what he wants would be helpful in identifying with model has the most appeal. If he can, he should personally look at/drive the cars available locally to see how they feel and what separates a "good" expample from a poor one.

theasphaltgambler

All above very good advice. If you are looking at the 'classic 911' first thoughts of anyone goes to the 80's 911 with the whale-tail and front spoilers. I think the '84-88 cars will hold and increase in value if it is a very good example. To me they represent the epitome of Porsche. Looks, speed, braking and handling.

There is no mistaking the above mentioned car on the road or in the drive. That version never gets lost in the jelly-bean car crowd. You KNOW what it is and what it represents. The 964 is a great example of the evolution. Still retaining most of the classic look, but a little sleeker, more refined and more power.

Ron Minson

In terms of recommendations of a good shop

Heckmann and Thiemann off of Powell Blvd in Portland 503 233 4809.

But then there is always the definitive source for all things Porsche.

Steve Weiner
Rennsport Systems
Portland Oregon
503.244.0990
http://www.rennsportsystems.com
E-mail: porsche@rennsportsystems.com


Steve is very active on this board and is a wealth of information.

Edward

Hi Adam,

First, given that budget, your friend has to decide between the 87-89 which offers the more traditional lines in a 3.2 engine, or a 1990-94 964 model with the 3.6 with a look that's a bit more modern --either will appeal more to those who want "that" look, so I'd say this is the first step. Both have their functional pluses and minuses, too, of which he should read about as there are considerable differences between these two models.

Once he decides on the model he wants, then he should drive a bunch of them and get a feel for what's "normal" in these cars vs what may truly be a poor example. Then and only then would I get a PPI --that is, once he feels familiar enough to say with confidence, "this car is a winner" --now go out and get a professional's bill of health. He can save a bunch of money by minimizing the number of PPIs he pays for by doing good his homework first, not to mention that without a GOOD PPI he can get surprised with a nasty/expensive problem that could have been detected if he had an experienced 911 wrench under there. Also important is him understanding that repairs on these cars can be very expensive, so paying up front for a more sound vehicle will save him $$$ in the long run...and this is no opinion, just ask anyone (owner or mechanic) who can attest to buying cheap yet having to pay $$$ later.

Finally, there is this board from which he can get advice on the cars he finds, but also advice on a GOOD wrench in whom he can trust. Hope this helps.

Edward

JCP911S

Harry D said it... he should decide what his priorities are... 3.2 are lighter, sportier, more challenging (and rewarding IMHO) to drive... the also have heavy steering, somewhat challenging shifter, and primative (read doens't work well) AC and other controls... a cool vintage car that can be driven every day...

The 3.6 models are more civilized, heavier, great AC, power steering, smoother shifters, torquier engines, and more sophistocated suspensions.... they are also less visceral and involving and have higher maintenance expenses, and probably more depreciation potential.... a day to day car that will kick *** when you stomp on it....

Both are outstainding cars... drive both... you will probably form a strong option... go with that.

Peter Zimmermann

Hey, how about a great '83 SC, you're friend will have enough money left over for a '73/74 914 2.0! Just kidding. If your friend wants to find out a ton of info regarding the various 911 air-cooled models may I humbly suggest my book, The Used 911 Story. The 7th edition is available from RPM Auto Books in Stillwater, MN, or Amazon.com. The book discusses each model's pitfalls at length, it's been called a "must read" for 911 newbies by a lot of people. One note, cars built since '87 are new enough to have a complete service record file, one owner cars are usually better, and you don't want to pursue a car with salvage title (theft, flood, severe accident, etc.). Good hunting! Oh, I think I saw the 993 mentioned in one post. I doubt seriously that you'll find a top car with reasonable mileage in your friend's price range.
Pete

JackOlsen

I'd agree that Zimmerman's book would be a great resource for any 911 shopper.

However, a friend of mine just got a 95 993 with 75K for that price.

JCP911S

jack... he stole it for $25K

GrantG

I would look seriously at getting a nice 1967-1973 911S. These are great cars (if you get a nice one) and are appreciating in value...