Shopping for 911 - 1979 versus 1984-1989 ?

[JCFL]

Hello,

I am shopping to replace a 1984 Carrera that I destroyed in a crash. I had it for 3 years and it was a great car, in excellent condition. I was fortunate not to be hurt in crash - car was totalled.

I have always read that 84-89 models were the best in the older years, which I prefer. Now, after having shopped for 4 months, the nicest 911 that I found to my taste and around my budget is a 1979 model going for 17,900 $ in Tulare CA.

This car has an air pump, which I am told I could remove. What do you guys think about this choice - should I continue the search for 1984-89 model, or is the 1979 year an acceptable choice. Car has less than 90,000 miles, with same owner.

2 months ago, I would not have even consider an older model than 1984, as I was convinced that I should stick with the 84-89 vintage. Now, this 1979 SC is making me waver as it is definitely the one that I like the most in 4 months of online shopping.

What do you guys think about the 1979 year ? I am in Eastern Canada and the car would be on the road 6 months per year, and will be used at a rate of about 6000 miles per driving season of 6 months.

The reason I preferred the 84-89 model years was the look and also the DME Motronics engine control, which I have read was an important improvement.

I am aware that the standard rule is always to buy the newest Porsche you can afford. In my case a 1992 model or newer is not an option as they are too complicated to work on. I live in the boonies, with nearest dealer at 350 miles. So I must do my own mechanical work. It went pretty well with my first Porsche - I even changed the clutch on my own with the help of this site. Major accomplishment for me as I am not at all mechanically inclined.

I appreciate your comments, and this site. Thanks Wayne at Pelican Parts.

JCFL

[equality72521]

Originally Posted by JCFL

The reason I preferred the 84-89 model years was the look and also the DME Motronics engine control, which I have read was an important improvement.

The reason my next Porsche will be at least 1984. I hate CIS.

[JMH82SC]

Some will argue that the SC has a stronger bottom end but CIS can be a pain. 17K for a SC is on the upper end in this current economic climate.

[sc_rufctr]

CIS can be troublesome but when it's running right it's an excellent system.
Bear in mind the Later EFI can be troublesome as well.

The later 3.2 are great cars. You also have the option of a G50 equipped car.

I like my 915 gear box... I just adore the old school shift and feel but it's not for everyone.
I have driven a G50 88 and that was excellent but I wouldn't want to rebuild one.
Way more expensive than a 915 in parts.

I drive a 78 and love it. Great all round car but I suspect a 79 is not the right car for you.
After your 84 going back to an earlier car may be disappointing.

For me it's straight forward. The only thing I go to a professional for is tyres.
I even do my alignment at home with strings and steel rulers (saves $60 ).

So my SC fits into my life. You need a car that fits into yours.

[1990C4S]

I have had some P-cars of that vintage. I ended up with a cheap 3.2 / G50. IMO they are the best option.

[chuckr]

1984 Porsche 911 Carrera

Beautiful example of a rust free Texas/Florida Carrera Coupe, Guards Red/Brown Leather Interior 91,000 miles. All original except for newer cup wheels. Have many records and original window sticker. Great daily driver, runs and drives wonderfully. In a pinch and need to sell. Asking $19,500 OBO.

Contact Steve at 972-359-9425 or wrightmr@sbcglobal.net

[WIL84911]

My 84 is my first 911. Based on feedbacks and after 14K miles in 13 months I'm set on 84-89 being my next 911. Hope this helps.

[FenderGuy]

Like the rest have chimed in on the experiences with differnet cars...

I have a 1980 SC love the car, hate the CIS in the winter time. The CIS has been trouble free until this winter

My next car is going to be a 3.2 Carrera or a 964

[Macroni]

$19,000 the car should be excellent.
I would hold out for what you want!

[JCFL]

Bump for more comments - they are much appreciated.

JCFL

[island911]

IMO, CIS gives better throttle response than EFI ...I expect that for emission reasons (stock) EFI doesn't dump fuel in as quickly.

....and giving better fuel economy than CIS.

[GaryR]

For the $17,900 you would spend on that SC, in this economy you should be able to find a good solid Carerra, even a G50 87-89.

[kodioneill]

I own three models 74 911 82sc 85carrera. I love em all but I like driving and working on the Carrera the most.

[Nine9six]

Originally Posted by GaryR

For the $17,900 you would spend on that SC, in this economy you should be able to find a good solid Carerra, even a G50 87-89.

+ 1 on what Gary said...

[kidrock]

+2, for $17.9K you should be able to track down a G50 in excellent condition with reasonably low miles.

[BRLuecke]

Boy....$17,900 is really a lot for a 1979. I'd think twice before making that deal.
The two BIG deal things you gain are EFI instead of CIS and the G50 transmission.
I've heard the 915 transmission is great IF the syncros are good, but that is a big if.
In my 1981 SC 1st and 2nd gear required much patience going up and down thru the gears.
ALSO consider the issue of broken cylinder studs. It seems like it is not if, but when the exhaust side studs will go.
I now have a 1988, not perfect by any measure, but a pretty good driver. Had a salvage title from a mid 1990's accident and was not well loved in it's later life. SO FAR the purchase price was $9600 and I've done about $2000 in repairs, some my self and some at the local import garage.
I'd start checking eBay and Craig's List, take your time, you should be able to find a nice late 1980's 911 for less than the 1979.
AND DON'T FORGET TO HAVE A PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION by a reputable shop. Should be about $250 and worth every penny.

[Billyfeet]

You can get a very nice Carrera for that kind of money.

[psu7979]

Originally Posted by JCFL

I am aware that the standard rule is always to buy the newest Porsche you can afford. In my case a 1992 model or newer is not an option as they are too complicated to work on. I live in the boonies, with nearest dealer at 350 miles. So I must do my own mechanical work. It went pretty well with my first Porsche - I even changed the clutch on my own with the help of this site. Major accomplishment for me as I am not at all mechanically inclined.

I appreciate your comments, and this site. Thanks Wayne at Pelican Parts.

JCFL

Is this really true? I've been considering a 964 because I thought they would be more reliable than an SC or Carrera.

[scotyp]

Also, watch out for possible valve guide wear problems in the Carrera. Some have them and some don't. The 2 cars I looked at had it (one was an 87') and I passed after the PPI. A top end job would be nice to find in one.
Would rather have a nice SC than a marginal Carrera! I think you will need 20K plus for a nice Carrera and all the major work done on it. At least that is the market out here in Seattle. I also looked heavily at these before I settled on the SC which I think are more bang for the buck!

[boba]

+1 on the G50 Carrera.

I am more a longhood guy, but my son has an '86 Carrera and it is a great car even with the 915. For the money you have mentioned you should find a very nice G50 car.