Which is going to be the most fun to drive?

[drystack]

Soon to be first time Porsche owner is looking for feedback on 3 potential cars. I've narrowed down to a 71 911T with 140k needing a fair amount of cosmetic tinkering, an 87 3.2 Carrera with 99k, and a 70 RS replica with 3.2 that needs cosmetic finishing (cars are listed in order from lowest to highest in price). I have driven none of these cars.

I want light weight and a decent road car. I don't mind a little puttering, but don't want to married to the car as a first timer. I love the 70 RS for its stance, power and upgrades and could care less about its lack of collectibility. The 71 is nice, but I am having a hard time with "settling" for a T and 130 hp. The 87 is just a great looking car with a nice powertrain (Is there any way to verify it as a G50 by the VIN or shift pattern?).

Anyway, I appreciate the feedback as I scan the Search feature. If you know of any other projects than may fit the bill please let me know. I am located in the Northeast.

Thanks
Matt

[DanielDudley]

An 87 Carrera is a solid car. If it PPI's, it would be hard to beat, and easy to upgrade. The RS rep would be a great fun toy, if screwed together well. Done up, it would always draw a crowd. Don't buy someone else's problems. Make sure the car you buy is structurally and mechanically sound. LOL

[Dueller]

87 is a g50 car. I'd recommend that as a first 911. Likely much more reliable than other semi-finished customs. You'll want to do your own mods and the 87 is a good base. If its reasonably priced you'll get most of your money back if you decide you want something else.

[masraum]

Probably if well maintained the most reliable of the three would be the '87. It's the one that for the most part, you could add oil and gas and go everyday.

The '70 could be enormously fun and also pretty darn reliable if it's well done. It's also, probably the most likely to bite you in the butt if you aren't careful. (older chassis, more powerful engine, notorious 911 handling). It could also end up having rust issues which is the last thing that I'd want in a toy.

The 71 would also be more susceptible to rust than the '87. It would still be loads of fun and a great way to learn how to drive a 911 and how to work on one. It could be as reliable as the '87. You can just never tell.

Unfortunately with the info that we have, anyone of them could end up being super reliable or a huge pain in the butt money pit.

Do any of them come with all receipts and maintenance records?

I'd definitely drive them all, and go into it thinking that you won't buy any of the three, but that it will be educational.

Good luck.

Yes, '87 is definitely G50, and yes, the shift pattern is different than the 915, but I don't remember the difference. One one the reverse is left and up (next to first) and on the other its right and down (under 5th), IIRC.

[Dueller]

G50 reverse is to the left (thru spring loaded gate) and up (forward) next to 1st.

[p911dad]

Matt, if the car you eventually chose is from the Northeast, rust will be an issue, especially the ages of the cars you are suggesting. Rust is a major pain and expensive to cure(if it is curable). The 87' is a super fun car, very reliable and all weather as well if you are limited to one car. Rust in an 87' is unlikely unless it is a real rag. Good luck!

[drystack]

Thank you all!

I am leaning toward the 87 both for financial and practicality concerns. However, its 5 hours away. I am going to drive some similar cars tomorrow, but this one in particular is the right color combo, miles aren't bad, and its original.

Can anyone recommend a shop to do a PPI in the Woodstock CT area (north east corner)? Finally, any areas that should be of particular concern when doing so?

Thank you all for the patience and help again.

Matt

[jyl]

Not much info. But would also recommend the '87. Maybe come back and post detailed pictures and more info, after you check the cars out?

[johndglynn]

If you want fun to drive, then the hot rod is the one I would go for if it was done properly - so bare shell, cut rot out, do body properly, update brakes & suspension and rebuild/replace the "while-you're-in-there"s on the drivetrain. If it's just a bolted-in 3.2 motor in an original car then the '87 all the way (as long as you chip it and take some weight out )

[Nostril Cheese]

Carrera all the way.

All around its hard to beat them.