OUNATE

Are there any differences between the two years?

87944turbo

http://www.clarks-garage.com/951faq.htm#models

caster951

For one, the 86 is an early wheel offset car, and the 87 is late offset.

OUNATE

so do the upgrades to the 87 make it that much more desireable? The 87 (21,000 miles) sat for quite a few years and for sure needs all belts, waterpump and hoses, and the 86 (37,000 miles) has only records of oil changes and probably needs all of the work also. The 87 is silver/burgandy and the 86 is black/black which color combination is would be considered rare if any? thanks for the quick responses.

M758

The 87 is more desirable than a 86 due that long list of improvements.

However a nice 86 is always better than crappy 87. Some folks perfer the 86 since it is a bit simpler, can run fuchs wheels and is often a bit cheaper to buy than a same condition 87.

Really however what is the most important thing is to find a good car. 86 vs 87 should only come into play if you are deciding between similar examples. In my mind 86 vs 87 rates just above color choice as factor.

streckfu's

Buy the best example you can but if all things are equal, go for the newer car.

ldt1

There are not a lot of buyers chomping at the bit for a burgundy interior. apologizing in advance to those who already have one.

MichelleJD

The 86 also has no airbags. Some of the 87's don't either. If you are into safety (and the 87 has 'bags) get it. If you want to replace your steering wheel with a 930s wheel, go 86.

SamGrant951

I think I would feel safer without 20 year old airbags right in my face...but thats just me

reno808

on a 87 its a eaiser to change to a 38mm wastegate than a 87

Ag951

You can ditch the airbag in the '87 if it has one (I just did). Now I have a nice Sparco quick-release, which is good, because it's much easier to get in and out with the steering wheel sitting on the passenger seat.
I have a silver/burgundy 87, so give in to peer pressure and buy that one.
Seriously though, take both to a reputable Porsche mechanic and get them checked out. If they're both in great condition, check if one has an LSD. If that's the same, choose based on color vs. 87 improvements.

JDeitz951

The Turbo S model is the most desirable (some 88s & all 89s). otherwise,forget rareness and desirability. There is little collectible value to our cars. But keep this in mind: There were more 86 951s sold than all other years of 951 *combined*.

I would say the late offset is the most desirable advantage of an 87, but it doesn't translate to much greater dollar value. Just gives your more upgrade choice in wheels and brakes.

Check the option list on both cars and look underneath. I believe the LSD tranny with oil cooler was more common in 86s than later non-S cars. Same thing with front brake cooling ducts and deflectors.

Did the 87 come with the auto-tensioner for the timing belt, which the 86 did not? That would be a consideration, though some say you're safer setting the tension with a tension gauge anyway.

JDeitz951

Oh, yeah. No airbags. That's a big thing I prefer about my 86.

SD Porsche Fan

First generation airbags... Like a loaded shotgun pointed at your chest!

MichelleJD

Hence the 86 in my driveway