quick question: what changed on the 964?
 

This may sound like a dumb question, but cosmetically, what exactly changed on the 964. When I see one, for some reason, I can instinctively tell that it is one and not a Carrera, but even looking at pictures of 84-89 C2s and a 964s back to back, I can't put my finger on what is changed (besides the usual lack of fuchs).

Any help from someone with a better eye for lines that I have?

The biggest visual impact ;-) would be the bumpers. The Carreras had impact bumpers where the C2s had smoother bumpers.

Bumpers, rockers, lack of rubber accordian thingies. Tail lights, and rear center refelctor.

thx.

The 964's also had the smaller tail that rises as you drive. None of the 964's come with the typical whale tail you see on Carrera's.

Except for the RS Americas

Read somewhere that the windows are more flush to fit vs previous models. Also different mirrors.

Question related to the "911 as a tow vehicle" thread:

Are the bumbers between 84-89 Carreras interchangeable with those on 964s? Wondering if a 964 trailer hitch would bolt up to the bumper mounts on an 86 Carrera.

I doubt the bumpers are interchangeable, Porsche claimed the 964 was 85% new from the pre-89 911, I don't think many parts are interchangeable between the two. The cars have a totally different suspension, engine is larger and has dual distributor, tub is different iwth wider and taller center tunnel, front trunk and gas tank layout is completely different.

all rubber seals, h5 headlights, brakes, springs and shocks, 6 speeds gearbox, under engine try, exhaust, aero mirrors....

Didn't the six speed start in the 993?

My 964 turbo has the normal whale tail as on the earlier ones.

I was actually just wrondering about cosmetically. The lines just seem different. Now that I'm looking, I think the biggest difference is the bumpers. I thought it had a different rake on the back, but I guess that's just my imagination.
Thanks everyone.

A 964 bumper fits up to the SC/ Carrera bodywork on both ends. I can't tell you how different the mounting systems are, though. So, even though they say the car is 80% different, the fenders hoods and doors are not as far as overall dimension.

Thanks Milt!

The latest Excellence magazine has an article about a 964, & it provides a good summary of the changes, cosmetic & otherwise. I think all 964s had 5-speeds.

Significantly, the 964 added power steering, ABS, airbag & a revised suspension. The article said 85% of the car was new, compared to the 911.

Personally, I do not like the appearance of the 964. I do, however, like the RS America. But this is just my opinion....

One of the things that I like about my '88 Carrera is the fact that it does not have ABS, power steering, etc. To me, the 911 is a purer sports car.

The 964 unit body is a LOT stiffer than the older 911, but it weighs very little more. All the extra wt. is the luxo-boat items & engine intake/exhaust.

I also hate the bulbous bumpers on the thing. There are probably nicer looking replacements tho.

Check Frere's book for a lot of detail.