bwoodry

Hello:

I am looking at a 1983 Targa. All original engine, new paint, radio and Tail, Turbo rims and the Interior has been redone seems like a solid car. Current owner has had car for 7 years and claims it is originally from Arizona .

Owner claims it only leaks some oil from drain plug. Has 120k on engine. no mods have been done on the engine. Asking price is $12900.00.
If a PPI comes clean what is the price fair? What mods should be done on a car like this?

Thanks

Bob

Wayne Williams

Hey Bob,

If its of any help, I have just bought an '82 SC Targa with FPSH, rebuilt gearbox with short shift, rebuilt engine, new re-upholstered interior, re-furbed turbo wheels, cd, full floor pan up body restoration with new wing, wings (or fenders in the US) and a file full of receipts and photographs of the resto.

Here in the UK, I paid £12,000 ukp which is a bit high for this model but I am rest assured that it ain't going to turn into a lump of rust by the end of the year!!!

I had a PPI done and it showed up some minor oil leaks, worn shocks and a few grommets (!!!) missing here and there.

On first reading the PPI it felt depressing, the car of my dreams sounded like a wreck!! - but, I am glad to say I love every minute of driving it - loads of power - we get 204bhp in the UK, handles like a dream (even with worn shocks) and turns a lot of heads!!!

If the car is right, buy it!!! - and my advice is don't modify it - Porsche built the car right in the first place, don't spoil it!!!

cheers

Wayne

Peter Zimmermann

Bob: Quite simply, 911 drain plugs don't leak unless they are cross-threaded or loose. That car is definitely entitled to leak; from cam o-rings, oil return tubes, and elsewhere. Mods can only be considered if you live in a state without strict smog inspections. SSI heat exchangers are about the only thing you want to do to the car if smog is not a concern. Sure, you can spend big bucks (cams, carbs, etc., but why?). If you want a faster car buy a '93/94 C2. "Re-done" interior is usually a minus, instead of a plus. What was redone beside the seats and top? I know the AZ sun can be brutal to a car, but 120K miles is pretty low mileage. Don't even think about price negotiation until you know if the car has Carrera tensioners and you've had a PPI done (read my PPI post!). Also, you need records - service history, synchro replacement, clutch replacement, etc...
Pete

bwoodry

Thanks for the advise.

Any recommended Porsche garage near Tampa?

Peter Zimmermann

Call Porsche Club of America (404) 378-9823 for a referral.
Pete

dmw44

Dave White is a long-time and very well-known Porsche racer and PCA member. Many owners use his service for their cars. He knows more about Porsches than most of us put together...

Dave White Autosports and Racing
5217 W. Hillsborough Avenue
Tampa, Fl 33634
(813) 874-1911
dwautosports.com

Regards, Doug

JCP911S

bwoody..... $12.9 should buy you a solid, reliable, no-excuses SC. Expect some maintenance items, but if you are looking at more than $1K total, and/or If you find yourself rationalizing after the PPI, maybe look for another car, or drop your bid. $15-17K should buy you a showcar.