gmiz

Hello all;

Still in the market for a 964 and looking at a few right now, but as I read through this forum, I see some comments advising people away from earlier year 964's - basically pre-1992.

I also know that things changed between the '89 and the '90's in terms of some options and mechanical changes.

Can anyone walk me through some of the differences, and the watch outs? One car I am looking at is an '89 C4 and am concerned about pursuing the first model year of the 964, but would like some clarity.

Any advise would help.

Thanks

PS Anyone selling a 964 in So Cal, let me know!

BlueHeeler

People that own +1992 say do not buy a pre 92 because those years have more issues. People that actually own and maintain a pre 92 say they are fine. Take that as you will.

This also applies to the C2 vs. C4 question you will be wondering about.

With a good PPI I would have no reservations about buying any year.

Carrera51

I would consider a C2. From what I have read the 964 based C4 can require some expensive repairs related to the AWD systems.

Definitely get a PPI on any model you are considering. If maintenance has been neglected or deferred they can get costly real quick. Make sure you get service records to review.

Rally Guy

I'd agree with Blueheeler. By now - most "pre-'92" issues have been addressed on cars still around and the overall condition and recent (5 yrs or so) maintenance history far outweigh any inherent design weaknesses, IMHO.

I went through all the hand-wringing and teeth-clenthing as I realised my car was probably at the "desireability nadir", "wrong" engine, "wrong" flywheel, "wrong" flag mirrors, etc.

A year into ownership? NO problems that I didn't aleady know about and the car is about as desriable - to me - as I could imagine.

RK

Rocket Rob

The best ones are the pre-92's. Otherwise, you have to back date the car to get proper flag mirrors.

Jokes aside, all of the 964's are good, assuming they have been properly maintained and serviced.

gmiz

Rocket Rob; One of the cars I am considering is a '90 C4 Cab - Any thoughts on the AWD system or the Top?

Also, the owner reports some leaks, but not sure the case, has your car been rebuilt? What should I be asking?

Thanks again.

Computamedic

The AWD system on the 964 C4 is almost entirely mechanical with only the PDAS traction control system relying on electronics. PDAS has no impact on the mechanical reliability of the AWD system and it is generally considered to be "bomb-proof". I have heard of the odd gearbox issues - but that goes for C2s as well.

The '89 C4s are the ones with the lighter (and more reliable) flywheel as standard but any issues with the dual mass part on later cars will have been sorted years ago.

Regards

Dave

frankvan

what have you read about repairs to C4 AWD? I'm about to buy another after the last one gave me five years and 40K of trouble free AWD.

Rocket Rob

My C4 has been extremely reliable. I purchased the car in 92 with 26K miles on it. It now has 230K miles with no major engine work. The engine has some drips but runs and pulls well. The car is currently parked, waiting for me to replace its alternator. As for the AWD system, as other have said, its been very reliable. The only issue I've had is a drip from the front diff. It was fixed with a replaced output shaft seal. My top too has been reliable. I had to replace the canvas top back in 96 because the rear window was coming unstitched.

There are lots of threads about what to look for in a 964. My advice is to read as much as you can and be ultra picky. Buying a fantastic car for an extra few thousand is much better than a buying a fixer-upper and having to pay a lot of repair bills. While these cars are wonderful to drive, they can be expensive to repair if they are not maintained properly. So find a mechanic that you can trust and who knows 964's and have them do a thorough PPI (see checklist below) on any car you are serious about.

Good luck with your search and feel free to ask more questions. The folks at Rennlist are very knowledgeable and are always eager to help.

https://rennlist.com/forums/964-1989...checklist.html

Bearclaw

A traceable service history is the best little gem you can find in a car.
These cars are characteristically European: if they were neglected by the previous owner, they will punish the current one.

The pre-'92 thing is basically a non-issue. The AWD system is nearly bulletproof.
And these things have literally gallons of oil in them, so a few drops here or there is no biggie.

911Jetta

Buy on conditon regardless of model year.
'89 doesn't have airbags if that's important.
You mentioned looking at a couple 964s, that's lucky since they are relatively rare in most markets. They all feel a little different, you'll know when you're driving a good one...

Oracle

C4 ? eew.. nothing but trouble Just kidding..
Seriously good luck in your search, that part of the Porsche ownership journey makes it more memorable, take your time and read, read, read.. (and you'll know C2 is the way to go )