Just bought '86 911 from ebay...I'm a little scared! +seat cover question

Yeah, I know. Who would buy a 911 without driving it, checking it out, etc.??? Well, there were lots of photos and it was sold by a dealer with lots (>100) of positive feedback from people very happy with their cars. Several were 911s.

Plus I'm having it checked by a PCA member suggested shop and if there's major problems the deal is off.

The car is not perfect, but still seems like a super deal. It's an '86 w/107K miles. Original paint looks great...just a few stone chips. Sadly, no records. Price? $14500.

The flaw that will bug me the most is a tear on the interior drivers seat side bolster. Is there a way to have that section replaced or will the entire seat cover need to go?

Here's a photo: http://images.imagehost.com/157/8864-8201.jpg

I am always looking on Ebay and wondering how these cars really look. I'm sure there are some "finds" out there. I think the whole transportation thing is what makes it difficult. But as long as you have an out you should be OK. One suggestion, and I have found out the hard way on past vehicles, is you should try to wash and dry the car in the daytime possibly before any final agreement. It just always seems after I've bought used cars, more comes to light after this procedure. If this is not possible, take the car somewhere where you can be alone and look at EVERYTHING at your pace. You will be spending alot of time on your back. Look for flaws in the paint such as dirt. Porsche paint never has dirt blemishes and it will tip you off if there is any repaint. Repaint in and of itself is not a reason not to buy if done properly. I would rather have a properly painted hood that an original with thousands of stone chips. As far as the mechanicals, let a trusted Mechanic take care of that, just make sure he has your best interest in hand. Good Luck. By the way, whats with the spoiler?

[This message has been edited by 89911 (edited 05-27-2000).]

Good advice. I'm flying out to Houston Tuesday then driving the 18 hours back to Phoenix. By the time I get home I'm sure I'll have a feel for what kind of shape it's in.

Yeah, that wouldn't have been my choice for a spoiler to put on that car. Isn't that a 993 spoiler? I'll have to see it in person before I decide whether it stays or goes.

As far as cosmetics goes it looks SWEET! I hope it works out for you. If its mechanically sound it sounds like a great buy to me. Just my .02 Mark

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Dude, are you sure it's an '86. Those large torsion tube covers look like '87-'89 G-50 trans torsion tube covers to me, but I could be wrong. The G-50 trans is far superior to the old 915, but they didn't start until '87. Also, you have '86 and earlier headlights? Good looking car, hope it's a great deal, make sure your mechanic looks for body shop shenanigans though!

Congratulations. Look it over. Listen to the mechanic, if all goes well, you just bought yourself a sweet car. You'll see what I mean on your drive.

You'll find things that need attention. for me, that is part of the fun. If it's healthy, you just bought a lot of car. For an excellent price I think. Happy motoring.

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'83 SC

You can see the torque tubes in that photo? I'd love it if the car had been converted to the G50. The VIN plate says it was built 7/86.

I'm not sure how the headlights differ. The last 911 I had was a 1980. What should the 86 look like? Here's a photo of the front for a better view: http://images.imagehost.com/157/8864-8206.jpg

I'm anxious to see what kind of shape it's in. To be honest I wouldn't mind if it were a little less than perfect. My '80 was so nice I did't want it to get a scratch. Other than a couple of track events at Road Atlanta it lead a sheltered life.

Oops, make that torsion tubes...

Lee Congrats!! I picked up a 1988 911 for a little under 20K it has almost 50K mi so i thought it was a good deal.It had a little body work on the rear but good job and very very clean.As with them all 10-20 years old there are little things that need fixing. The BEST of luck to you!!
BTW 88'911

How do you send pictures over this board??
How are they linked??

Check out the html section of the FAQ for image and linking options.

Great looking car! If the engine and tranny are sound, with no rust on the body, then I think you got a KILLER deal. I think the 1987 models had the H5 headlights, with a larger lens and smaller trim ring. Goodluck and enjoy your new car.

Well, I've got a 6:45 am flight to Houston to pick up my ebay 911. I'll give a full report after the 18 hour drive back to Phoenix.

I'd still be interested in hearing opinions on repairing the torn side bolster. Can just that panel be replaced? I think the tear is too large to patch properly.

Sure the bolster can be replaced. Any compotent apholstry shop can match the material and do the job.