So, I'm seriously looking at 2 911's and would love to hear your opinion ...
 

I originally posted this on the 911 thread and was told to post it over here to look for alternative opinions on this subject --- so here it is. I'm looking at an '89 black cab with beige interior ($67k miles) and a '92 C2 red cab with off white/light grey interior ($51k miles). Both cars look great in pictures, and the price is similar. Part of me leans towards the newer car, but I do like the classic 911 look with the Fuchs. Thoughts from the forum?

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q..._27/d1f5_4.jpg

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q..._27/d1fd_4.jpg

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q...1188932630.jpg

http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q...1189872579.jpg

Both are great cars. Drive both of them and go with the one that you like the feel of the best.

Buy the 964.......here's why.......

More HP and torque. Faster and smoother to drive.

It is a real car you can drive everyday year round......the heater works perfectly everytime, all the time.

It has dual airbags and ABS for safety.....and it is also newer.

Drive both back to back if you can......after that IMHO you won't look twice at the 1989.

I second Rob's advice. Drive 'em both and see what version you prefer. THEN get a PPI on the car you like better, run a carfax and make sure everything is in order.

I personally like the 92, (but not a big fan of guards red). It has sport seats and is a good year for 964s, plus more modern suspension, more hp etc.

I was faced with the same decision a couple of years ago. I figured the '88 turbo was THE p-car. That was until I drove a 964turbo. The decision was easy... AC that works, ride and handling etc. Both cars are great... just different. We happen to like the way the 964 over the 88. We drove them both on the same day within an hour of each other. Take them out for an hour or so and the decisions will be much easier for you.

I am a 964 fan for sure.. but the black cabrio is sure a nice looking car.

Wow.... both look very nice... I am a 964 fan... but that black '89 looks nice. I have to agree Rob... you have to drive them both and see which one appeals to your senses the most... can't go wrong with either one.

I'm a 3.2 fan. Here's why:
even better built;
less complex, therefore easier n cheaper to fix;
rawer feel (depends if you think this is a benefit)
lighter so at least as fast as 964.
pure steering.
Fuchs wheels - classic & light.
Even more classic lines?
You'll spend more on mods on a 964 trying to make it perfect, where a 3.2 is near perfect to start ;-)

Of course some of these might be viewed as disadvantages.
964 more likely to have aircon (but more likely to can go wrong)

How's that for controversial?

Between the 2 choices, I would go for the '89.

Thanks for the feedback. The guy selling the 964 is being a bit painful to deal with so far; so, we'll see how this progresses. If others want to chime in, please do.

maybe the real question is creature comforts like ABS and airbags. If you want/need them as criteria for buying, then the '89 isn't really a choice, is it?

hmmm... oddly enough, both are probably (if even slightly) increasing in value, which is amazing given it's a car and not the million dollar collector variety.

.... the 3.6 liter is awfully nice .... I think that's what would push me toward the 964. (that and the fact it has coil-overs and much more easily improved for the track)

MHO...

HD

I went down this road too,
The 3.2 cars drive like well, old cars. I found that old uncompromising feeling anything but better and consequently went with the 964 and have been very happy. Some may feel otherwise and that is fine but the 964 is a very solid car that outperforms a 3.2 car in every category. Better suspension, larger engine with more power and torque. If you like the older cars by all means go for it as they are great in their own right but for a more modern ride with all the traditional performance virtues the 964 is a great way to go.

Good Luck

I don't think this is correct if you compare roadtests of each.

drive them both. it's unlikely that you'll end up buying the first one(s) you see/drive. it's also likely that something will "click" as you drive these two models....one will fit/work for you, the other won't (as well). it's unlikely that these two P-cars are in identical condition - or have been maintained identically......but you'll be able to get a flavor of the different models. the cool thing is that this is the beginning of what can be a very interesting and rewarding journey........just be sure to get a thorough PPI (confirm availibility of the books, records, stamps) - and know what you're buying. regardless of which model you end up buying, every drive is a special experience. please keep us posted as you make progress.