sprbxr

Are there any drawbacks to an 86 951? Are 87 and later 951's better? What updates should be done to an 86 951? I am looking at an 86 with 135K miles. Excellent service records, two owners, garaged kept most of its life. I can get it for $5500. Is that a decent price? One problem it does have is a cracked windshield. Is that a pricey item? I noticed the antenna is in the windshield. The car also has BBS wheels instead of the stock wheels. Let me know what you think.
Justin

Olli Snellman

'87 and newer models have so called automatic timing belt tensioner it's olso easier to get newer wheels to '87 and newer models since they have same wheel offset as 968 have till '95.
Olli

TomH

Price sounds good, as 88 and newer turbos usually fetch over $10K. Cracked windshield is unfortunate, as they can be quite pricey. Tweeks has them for around $750, plus you pay shipping collect.

you should research the various 944-related web sites for what to look for. Start here --> http://944-world.com/

Find out when the belts and water pump were last replaced. Failure in that area will lead to very costly repairs. Also, inquire if the oil cooler seals have ever failed. you can usually tell if they have, by the color of the coolant resevoir. It it's stained yellow, then mixing has probably occurred. It it's still white and clean, then not. Mixing is common in the 944, you should just be aware of it, and know when the seals were last replaced. (not sure the exact lifespan of the seals, but they shold last you 8-10 years).

fletch.

750.00 is overpriced for a windshield, you can call national glass, or any local mobil glass installer and get quoted in the 550.00 range for factory installed glass. I paid 425.00 installed, with antenna.

As for the differences with 86 and 87+, they are numerous, Major ones that come to mind that made me decide on an 87 over an 86 are, 86 have smaller drive shafts, non Porsche standard wheel offset, no timing belt tensioner, no airbags (could be important to you), front hub assembly are older VW style. Not to say this wont be just fine in street or track applications, I get my butt kicked by 86 cars all the time, but in my opinion the front hub design is weak link. and the updated timing belt design was attractive.

Phantom

You might want to try Safelite Auto Glass. Its a national chain with a life-time guarantee.

I paid $320 (installed) for an 85.5 tinted windshield with the wire antenna. Its cheaper if you take the car to them, rather than having one of their mobile units come to you. Its not OEM, but no distortion or leaks and very good fit.

Dave951M

Sounds pretty good, check for records though. Undone maintenance can be very costly if you don't do your own work. The windshield isn't a problem. Take your time and have a prepurchase inspection done by a reputable Porsche shop.

Dave951M
86 951
Carolinas Region PCA