'86

[jaxon]

Saw a car at a local dealer today that looked like a 1998 911 Widebody. It was an '86 w/ 54k miles. I've known the dealer for some time.

The day after I drove by, the dealer called me and wanted me to come in and drive it to see if I might be interested.

Why would someone make this mod?
The obvious answer would be. . . they liked the looks of the '98.

Body looks to be in great shape. Also has big brakes on it. It LOOKS good . . . but am I missing something? Is there another reason one would make this mod?

[v9ff]

You're asking a bunch of guys who live for modifying their 911s why someone would upgrade their bodystyle?

Seriously though, it's purely for looks and personal appreciation of "your own" 911.

I think there are two main types of members on this board... the purists and those who will modify anything they can get their hands on.

Which of the two do you think I am:

[jaxon]

" it's purely for looks and personal appreciation of "your own" 911"

You answered my question. I can see putting a 3.2 or 3.6 in an older lighter car. I just couldn't see this mod.

Seems like you would be a sheep in wolf's clothing.

No offense intended to '86ers.

BTW- nice car!

[v9ff]

You might also consider the effects of the modification...

1. If the widebody kit is fiberglass, it might make the 86 lighter.
2. If the wheel base was widened to fit the widebody, it might handle better.

Just food for thought... I'm not an expert by any means though so it could mean diddly squat.

[Wil Ferch]

Hmmm....*thick* fiberglass might not be any less weight than *thin* steel.

Same for the ads for aluminum wheels. They have to be built to a "strength" target..so the cast alu wheels are 3x thicker in section than the steel rims they replace....using "lightweight aluminum"....

Just thinking out loud... sorry...

---Wil Ferch

[RickM]

Well, I guess you could ask why do we make any "cosmetic" modifications. Why an electric 3.6 tail on older cars or an RS backdate on an SC? The extent of modifications are many times related to one's pocketbook and (sometimes unfortunately) emotions.

[moazam]

Drive the car and see if you like it. Make sure it pulls well and the body mods are not weighing down the car.

Now, here is the important part...tell the dealer that you want a lower price or a 'deal' because of the aftermarket modifications. A stock car would be easier to sell later on, so honestly you should get a good deal on this car to make it worth it.

These kinds of mods don't make much financial sense when you are the one doing them. You can usually sell your car and just buy the newer model you're trying to emulate for the same or a little more money. But if someone has already spent the money and time doing them beforehand...

Other than that, if the mods are done right and don't look like a hack job, go for it..

[jaxon]

Well, I went out to look at it. Not for me, but someone will buy it. I like some mods, and they did a pretty good job. Just not good enough for my taste. I'd much rather have a clean one.

Funny thing is, they seemed to believe this improved the value of the car.

The engine was dry as a bone, no sign of leaks.

No pedigree either.

Heck, I didn't even want to drive it. I did start her up just to hear that sound. Best part of the visit.


Jaxon