Which year Carrera to buy
Race Car
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 3,993
Likes: 3
From: Blue Ridge Mountains NC.
I don't have the exact figures in front of me, but there are differnces over the years that make difference you may want to consider. I know the axles and rear wheel bearings were upgraded in 86 and possibly engine output that carried through till the end in 89. this combined with the lighter 915 gearbox and gear ratios make an exciting car in 86 with the best of the old and new - given the 915 trans. Again I am not at all sure of my facts here but several years ago I went down this same road with a customer looking for a carrera and we concluded the 86 model year was unique and special car for his objectives. Careful considerations were given to the specifications of each year and numerous small things became evedent that swayed his decision. Sorry I can't add any more details other than look carefully at every year and the changes that took place. Also, I hesitate to suggest for fear of starting another "chip" debate, but there are 89-93 964 cars available in the price range of 87-89 cars and they represent a great deal more car for the money in some people's mind. Good luck.
Rennlist Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 9,213
Likes: 1,908
From: Chicago, IL
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 791
Likes: 1
From: Ohio
Oooh... such comments will get you banished back to the to the "engine in the wrong end of the car" boards.
Rennlist Member
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 5,670
Likes: 1
I don't have the exact figures in front of me, but there are differnces over the years that make difference you may want to consider. I know the axles and rear wheel bearings were upgraded in 86 and possibly engine output that carried through till the end in 89. this combined with the lighter 915 gearbox and gear ratios make an exciting car in 86 with the best of the old and new - given the 915 trans. Again I am not at all sure of my facts here but several years ago I went down this same road with a customer looking for a carrera and we concluded the 86 model year was unique and special car for his objectives. Careful considerations were given to the specifications of each year and numerous small things became evedent that swayed his decision. Sorry I can't add any more details other than look carefully at every year and the changes that took place. Also, I hesitate to suggest for fear of starting another "chip" debate, but there are 89-93 964 cars available in the price range of 87-89 cars and they represent a great deal more car for the money in some people's mind. Good luck.
Race Car
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 3,664
Likes: 2
From: North Barrington, IL
It's been many years since I went through that decision tree but here's my $.02 FWIW:
- Some of the decision criteria will depend upon how you plan to use the car. My usage was/is for "alternate daily driver" meaning nicer days to/from work and short pleasure trips.
- I really liked the G50 from the cars I test drove and thought it would be more pleasant experinece in traffic and more reliable (I've had 0 problems except replacing/upgrade clutch)
- AC is marginal on any of these cars in the heat of summer. I'd imagine the pre 86 w/ smaller vents is totally worthless
- Condition is more important that year or mileage IMHO. I know well-cared-for examples running strong w/ 200K on them
- Some years had issues w/ premature valve guide wear necessitating top end rebuild...I had that on my early build 87 so look for smoke/oil consumption and beware or buy one that has had the issue addressed already
I recall that earlier Carreras had issues with head studs breaking but not sure which years. This can be an expensive repair
- All these are 20 year old cars now so budget repairs
- I keep thinking about buying a newer version but every time I get behind the wheel I have too much fun. I love the raw feel of these cars - the newer 911s are great but just a little too sanitized for me.
Good luck in your search.
- Some of the decision criteria will depend upon how you plan to use the car. My usage was/is for "alternate daily driver" meaning nicer days to/from work and short pleasure trips.
- I really liked the G50 from the cars I test drove and thought it would be more pleasant experinece in traffic and more reliable (I've had 0 problems except replacing/upgrade clutch)
- AC is marginal on any of these cars in the heat of summer. I'd imagine the pre 86 w/ smaller vents is totally worthless
- Condition is more important that year or mileage IMHO. I know well-cared-for examples running strong w/ 200K on them
- Some years had issues w/ premature valve guide wear necessitating top end rebuild...I had that on my early build 87 so look for smoke/oil consumption and beware or buy one that has had the issue addressed already
I recall that earlier Carreras had issues with head studs breaking but not sure which years. This can be an expensive repair
- All these are 20 year old cars now so budget repairs
- I keep thinking about buying a newer version but every time I get behind the wheel I have too much fun. I love the raw feel of these cars - the newer 911s are great but just a little too sanitized for me.
Good luck in your search.
Racer
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 477
Likes: 0
From: Houston, TX
i drove an '88 and an '83... and bought the 83 SC. Just felt faster and more raw.. I probably would have liked the 84 915 cars... I think its personal preference... Id much rather have an 83 or 84 that is in great shape than an 87 or 88 that is average.
Addict
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,709
Likes: 3
From: Land of the Ptarmigan
Aha! But type of salsa? Some salsa makers advance the capsicum level so high it’s obvious that they don’t have any idea what they’re doing! You spammers just have no idea! Internal & external combustion! That's right! Severe intestinal pinging!!!! You’re all idiots!
Ian
(Sorry. I couldn't resist
)
Ian
(Sorry. I couldn't resist
)
Rennlist Stories
The Best Porsche Posts for Porsche Enthusiasts
Genius Porsche-Themed Gifts That'll Make Any Dad or Grad Smile
Joe Kucinski
10 Used Porsches Are Selling for Way Too Cheap
Joe Kucinski
Tuner Is Converting Porsche 911s Into Shooting Brakes
Verdad Gallardo
This Coachbuilt Creation Is A Modern Take on the Legendary Porsche 917
Verdad Gallardo
Is This Convertible Cayenne A Steal, Or A Returnless Investment?
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Non-Flat Six Porsches You Can Buy For Under $100K
Joe Kucinski
Porsche's Top 5 Most Questionable Naming Decisions
Verdad Gallardo
Pogea Racing's 964 Porsche 911 Reimagination Stands Out in a Crowded Field
Verdad Gallardo
6 Convertible Top MYTHS Most People Don't Understand!
Michael S. Palmer
Rennlist Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 4,416
Likes: 151
From: Prospect, KY
Sold the S and the SC seems about sorted out(thanks to all your help), so I am on the hunt for the Carrera. I am aware of the G50 tranny, pre-buy inspections, Carfax, and bought 2 SC cars with good results. Also, I have almost all the books including Peter's book, and all the engine/car code #s. However, I know little about the 84-88 cars except for the increased horse power, improved suspension and the Moltronics improvement. I have plenty of time to look. Is there any year that is the killer car to own. We got the 1983SC and I think it is the pick of the litter-- is there a heavy bias on the Carrera with year?
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 615
Likes: 0
----What are you hoping to achieve by switching from the SC to the Carrera?-------------
Switching? I really had not thought about that. I figured on keeping both for a bit. I got a boy that is the Porsche fan and listed below is why I want one also and think they are the best thing in today's market place (not that I am an expert). The fuel injection system in the Carrera may be better and deliver better fuel usage if driven the same. More HP stock. G50 tranny. I have a same year spare engine and tranny for the SC, in case we keep it for many years--which we may. I do like the car, but I have never owned a Carrera and they are on the Cheap in Ca. right now
--------- there are 89-93 964 cars available in the price range of 87-89 cars and they represent a great deal more car for the money in some people's mind.-------------
I have spent some time on the 944 side and then researched what I learned from those guys. The 964 and 944 are truly underpriced great cars. A 944 turbo cup type silver Rose was a steal at the miles/condition/price and a couple of 964s are around at a good prices. However, there are some problems for me.
1. The 911 takes more skill to drive well, if one wants challenge, the 911 is the car.
2. Resale of any thing right now sucks, but the 944/964 is much worse. Maybe 40% off last year-IF you can sell it.
3.At age 68, I can drop the 911 engine and work on it with less back and other aging body parts problems. I can not bend over into the cars from the top any more.
4. I do not like the design of the 944 engine.
5. COOL is 911, ask any 10 year old or my 90 year old mother.
Switching? I really had not thought about that. I figured on keeping both for a bit. I got a boy that is the Porsche fan and listed below is why I want one also and think they are the best thing in today's market place (not that I am an expert). The fuel injection system in the Carrera may be better and deliver better fuel usage if driven the same. More HP stock. G50 tranny. I have a same year spare engine and tranny for the SC, in case we keep it for many years--which we may. I do like the car, but I have never owned a Carrera and they are on the Cheap in Ca. right now
--------- there are 89-93 964 cars available in the price range of 87-89 cars and they represent a great deal more car for the money in some people's mind.-------------
I have spent some time on the 944 side and then researched what I learned from those guys. The 964 and 944 are truly underpriced great cars. A 944 turbo cup type silver Rose was a steal at the miles/condition/price and a couple of 964s are around at a good prices. However, there are some problems for me.
1. The 911 takes more skill to drive well, if one wants challenge, the 911 is the car.
2. Resale of any thing right now sucks, but the 944/964 is much worse. Maybe 40% off last year-IF you can sell it.
3.At age 68, I can drop the 911 engine and work on it with less back and other aging body parts problems. I can not bend over into the cars from the top any more.
4. I do not like the design of the 944 engine.
5. COOL is 911, ask any 10 year old or my 90 year old mother.
Addict
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 157
Likes: 28
From: SoCal
-------
--------- there are 89-93 964 cars available in the price range of 87-89 cars and they represent a great deal more car for the money in some people's mind.-------------
I have spent some time on the 944 side and then researched what I learned from those guys. The 964 and 944 are truly underpriced great cars. A 944 turbo cup type silver Rose was a steal at the miles/condition/price and a couple of 964s are around at a good prices. However, there are some problems for me.
1. The 911 takes more skill to drive well, if one wants challenge, the 911 is the car.
2. Resale of any thing right now sucks, but the 944/964 is much worse. Maybe 40% off last year-IF you can sell it.
3.At age 68, I can drop the 911 engine and work on it with less back and other aging body parts problems. I can not bend over into the cars from the top any more.
4. I do not like the design of the 944 engine.
5. COOL is 911, ask any 10 year old or my 90 year old mother.
--------- there are 89-93 964 cars available in the price range of 87-89 cars and they represent a great deal more car for the money in some people's mind.-------------
I have spent some time on the 944 side and then researched what I learned from those guys. The 964 and 944 are truly underpriced great cars. A 944 turbo cup type silver Rose was a steal at the miles/condition/price and a couple of 964s are around at a good prices. However, there are some problems for me.
1. The 911 takes more skill to drive well, if one wants challenge, the 911 is the car.
2. Resale of any thing right now sucks, but the 944/964 is much worse. Maybe 40% off last year-IF you can sell it.
3.At age 68, I can drop the 911 engine and work on it with less back and other aging body parts problems. I can not bend over into the cars from the top any more.
4. I do not like the design of the 944 engine.
5. COOL is 911, ask any 10 year old or my 90 year old mother.
Addict
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 37,754
Likes: 15
From: Alta Loma Alone
I am the proud owner of an '88 manual cabrio that I would not change for the world. It is zero to 60 in about 6 of the funnest seconds of my life. Second gear is the best......that, and my boss constantly wanting to trade his 997 for it on the weekends. Not gonna happen.
Rennlist Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 4,416
Likes: 151
From: Prospect, KY
----What are you hoping to achieve by switching from the SC to the Carrera?-------------
Switching? I really had not thought about that. I figured on keeping both for a bit. I got a boy that is the Porsche fan and listed below is why I want one also and think they are the best thing in today's market place (not that I am an expert). The fuel injection system in the Carrera may be better and deliver better fuel usage if driven the same. More HP stock. G50 tranny. I have a same year spare engine and tranny for the SC, in case we keep it for many years--which we may. I do like the car, but I have never owned a Carrera and they are on the Cheap in Ca. right now
--------- there are 89-93 964 cars available in the price range of 87-89 cars and they represent a great deal more car for the money in some people's mind.-------------
I have spent some time on the 944 side and then researched what I learned from those guys. The 964 and 944 are truly underpriced great cars. A 944 turbo cup type silver Rose was a steal at the miles/condition/price and a couple of 964s are around at a good prices. However, there are some problems for me.
1. The 911 takes more skill to drive well, if one wants challenge, the 911 is the car.
2. Resale of any thing right now sucks, but the 944/964 is much worse. Maybe 40% off last year-IF you can sell it.
3.At age 68, I can drop the 911 engine and work on it with less back and other aging body parts problems. I can not bend over into the cars from the top any more.
4. I do not like the design of the 944 engine.
5. COOL is 911, ask any 10 year old or my 90 year old mother.
Switching? I really had not thought about that. I figured on keeping both for a bit. I got a boy that is the Porsche fan and listed below is why I want one also and think they are the best thing in today's market place (not that I am an expert). The fuel injection system in the Carrera may be better and deliver better fuel usage if driven the same. More HP stock. G50 tranny. I have a same year spare engine and tranny for the SC, in case we keep it for many years--which we may. I do like the car, but I have never owned a Carrera and they are on the Cheap in Ca. right now
--------- there are 89-93 964 cars available in the price range of 87-89 cars and they represent a great deal more car for the money in some people's mind.-------------
I have spent some time on the 944 side and then researched what I learned from those guys. The 964 and 944 are truly underpriced great cars. A 944 turbo cup type silver Rose was a steal at the miles/condition/price and a couple of 964s are around at a good prices. However, there are some problems for me.
1. The 911 takes more skill to drive well, if one wants challenge, the 911 is the car.
2. Resale of any thing right now sucks, but the 944/964 is much worse. Maybe 40% off last year-IF you can sell it.
3.At age 68, I can drop the 911 engine and work on it with less back and other aging body parts problems. I can not bend over into the cars from the top any more.
4. I do not like the design of the 944 engine.
5. COOL is 911, ask any 10 year old or my 90 year old mother.
FWIW my Euro SC can pull away from my friend's 87 Carrera on the track. Remember, from 78-89 you gain power but you also gain weight...and I'm not talking about the difference in weight between a 915 and a G50.