Advice on 87-89 Carreras: High mileage vs...

[dtsol]

Hi All, I’m looking to buy my first air-cooled 911 (exciting!). I’ve found a car I’m interested in, and need a little wisdom. The car in question is a 1987 Cab, 3 owner, good history, It has 201,000 miles on it, with a complete engine rebuild at 138,162 miles which also included replacing the head studs. The transmission was rebuilt and a new clutch installed at 189,641 miles. They’re asking $35,000 for it. My next steps are to get a copy of the service records and inspection (to be provided by the indy Porsche shop that’s been servicing this car since 2008) and to go see it, but in the meantime was wondering about the merits of buying a car with this high mileage and the rebuilds vs. a lower mileage but un-rebuilt car. Would love to know what you think.

[Chuck.H]

IHMO, I wouldn't be concerned with the high mileage if it's been taken care of - here's a pic of mine right now with almost 450k miles on it (and no door dings!)



Chuck.H
'89 M491 TurboLookTarga, 446k miles

[onewhippedpuppy]

Assuming equal condition I'll always prefer a higher mileage car with major work completed. A 100k Carrera will eventually need at least a top end if not a full rebuild, along with eventually needing a transmission rebuild depending on driving habits. A good rebuild just resets the clock.

[bweiss1]

I agree with @onewhippedpuppy.

[Synchro Joe]

Yep, get one that's been driven not babied. Service records are crucial as is a full PPI done by an experienced classic car shop. Separate inspection by body shop would be a plus. You'll have a punch list of things that will need to be done, it never ends, but it's worth it.

[786]

Originally Posted by Chuck.H

IHMO, I wouldn't be concerned with the high mileage if it's been taken care of - here's a pic of mine right now with almost 450k miles on it (and no door dings!)



Chuck.H
'89 M491 TurboLookTarga, 446k miles

Wow 450k...