Newbie Needs Some Buying Advice!

[WalleyeHunter]

Hey, All!

First, I would like to thank the owners, moderators, and forum members for making this forum possible. It is fantastic, and I have learned tons.

After a discussion with my homeowners insurance adjuster this morning, I will be getting a new cedar shake roof on a 6000 sq ft rambler complements of AllState due to a recent hail storm. The roof was shot when I bought the house last fall, and I had a substantial amount of $ put away to finance the replacement. To celebrate my newfound windfall, I have decided a new (to me) 911 Targa is in order!!!

After much research, I have pretty much decided on a '87-'89. I am friends with a couple sales managers at dealerships here in Mpls, and each of them have a candidate in stock. The first is a '88, which can be seen at German Auto Works of St. Louis Park, MN » 1988 911 Targa

The second is a '89, which can be seen at Luther Westside VW Volkswagen in St. Louis Park Minnesota, St Paul and Minneapolis Minnesota The Twin Cities MN , offering new and Used Volkswagens, a Used Volkswagen Dealer and a Used Volkswagen Dealership offer Cars, Trucks and SUVs

Curious if there is anything specific to these model years which I should pay particular attention to when I check out the cars. I have read about the chain tensioner, but believe that applies to pre-'84 cars. Also the airbox pop-off valves, but believe that is applicable to 2.7 and 3.0 liter engines.

All things being equal, does one of the above 911s catch your attention, or give cause to shy away? I prefer the color of the '89, but the mileage of the '88.

Thanks for any insight!!

[Poor-sche Lover]

I have sort of the same feelings as you do. I much prefer the looks of the '89. I don't think that the '89's mileage is that bad, anyway. Both cars look very good, though. The only thing that I saw is that it seems like, on the '89, the oil pressure is high for just idling. I think it's pretty much a wash, though. I do like the fact that the '88 seems to have more records. I'd still go with the blue one!

[Mitch Leland]

I agree, the "89" seems from the pixs to be a more sincere car... Plus like you I like the color. On the "88" the drivers door fit just seems to be off a tad. Maybe it's my imagination...

[Noah930]

Go drive each one. They very well may not drive the same and then you'll have your answer.

The miles on the '88 are fewer, but by no means would the higher miles on the '89 turn me off if the car's been maintained well. The '89 isn't "high mileage" by any means. I like the blue color a little better. Something different than the ubiquitous red/black/white.

Congrats.

[88-diamondblue]

Talk with Aaron at FLATSIX. I have friends that have used them and have been very happy with their service. It would be a good place to have a PPI done before buying. A PPI would tell you a lot about the car if the right place does it.

You won't be able to wipe the grin off your face

[aigel]

I would NEVER buy a car from a dealer. Always deal private party. You will save a bunch over retail price and you can see where your car lived and how it was treated much better than buying from a dealer.

That's my two cents. Not sure if you needed this input, but here it goes anyway.

George

[dienstuhr]

Buy/borrow and READ some books:

1. The Used 911 Story, Pete Zimmermann
2. 911 Buyer's Guide, Randy Leffingwell

Get a real PPI from an independent expert shop. You can find references here or on Rennlist. Randy's book has a very thorough description of a proper PPI.

Make your best deal on the car that "speaks to you" and enjoy Porsche ownership!!

Cheers,

d.

[msterling]

You will almost certainly pay more for a car from a dealer and you still MUST get a PPI done at a reputable and different shop. It is a buyer's market right now and you could get a great car for that kind of money or even less. Explore buying from a private party and avoid the regret of being fleeced by a dealer.

Those are both very nice looking cars and great years for a 911. A 3.2 could have valve wear that should be revealed by a PPI. Either car would represent a mature and troublefree example of the classic 911. Targas are cool but have their own service issues with the seals, latches and aging of the materials in the flexible top.

If you spend some time researching you should be able to come up with a purchase you will be proud of and you will have a car that is a blast to drive.

[John-1977911s]

I'd go with the Blue '89. First, it's looks so much better than the black. At sunset that steel blue is an amazing color. The matching wheels is also a very nice touch. The price is better. I would not worry about the miles being a little higher. Drive both, make sure it shifts and clutches properly. Check history, Car Fax is a must. Recently, the wife bought a used BMW and the Car Fax report really made the deal for us. Don't forget a PPI if possible.

[Por_sha911]

Do some homework. Decide how and when you plan to drive the car. Some things to consider:
-No PPI, no sale!
-Full maintenance history with receipts is a must in my mind. Less chance of surprises from neglected maintenance or improper repairs (either wrong parts or a wrench that doesn't know how to fix Porsche) to save a buck.
-Don't forget a full PPI by a independent mechanic that knows air-cooled Porsche.
-A Targa is a unique vehicle that will have more issues with wind noise and leaks. People either love or hate them. Both Targa and Cabs are not the usual choice for Auto-cross, DE, etc. They have more body flex than a Coupe (can be minimized with appropriate brace work).
-Drive several cars before buying. This way you have a grid for what you like and should expect.
-Have I mentioned a PPI?
-A dealer will normally charge more but, a honest and quality dealer will sell only the best of the best. You get what you pay for. I bought mine from Ooley & Blackburn: http://www.ooleyandblackburn.com/ and not only did they give me a great deal, but even did repairs for the same price when the PPI showed some work needed. They stood behind their word! Tell Steve Ooley Joe from Cleveland TN sent you.
-Things that get expensive fast: A/C, Clutch, oil consumption (usually a valve job).

[WalleyeHunter]

Thanks for all the thoughts.

I looked at and drove the '88 today. The front left fender showed signs of repaint and, while it handled fine and all gaps appeared uniform, I have ruled it out. The '89 has been sold, so my quest continues. I have time, and would rather find the "right" car vs. buying simply for the sake buying. I do have a question regarding open tops (Targa vs. Cabriolet), but should probably start a seperate post.

88-diamondblue - Thanks for the lead on Flatsix. I stopped by on Friday, as I was in the area, but nobody was at the shop. Can't blame them - 3:30 p.m., Friday, beautiful afternoon, and beer-thirty!! I will give Arron a call and touch base with him.

Thanks again!

[sobamaflyer]

Seems you have the right attitude and are now armed with some research knowledge.

Ask away on the open top questions, this is your post for finding your car.

Targas & Cabs vs Coupes seems to be a huge hotbutton issue for some odd reason, the hard-core race addicts want a non-sunroof coupe, and undoubtedly the coupe has prettier lines, but for many of us the joy of open air motoring creates it's own beauty so.....

Good luck, there are PLENTY of really good deals to be had lately so you are in a good spot to pick and choose.

[Drisump]

I own a Targa and have driven coupes. Undoubtedly, the coupe is a more "pure" form.....love it, but as was said earlier, top off motoring with the Porsche sound track is tough to beat! What a person ends up with, is very personal. In my area I use my car for six months of the year, nice day motoring, touring (long and short), and DE/autocross. There are many Targa's that have done well in Autocross, despite the "famed" body flex and extra weight.... isn't having fun what it's all about? All cars are a compromise, beauty vs. comfort, speed vs. agility, function vs. performance ....... . Since I personally can't afford a stable of specialized instruments, the Targa is a good fit for me. When touring, my wife loves the open air, this quality is big in my life as it doesn't require much salesmanship to plan a tour that includes her. What ever you choose, these models are all great cars. Good luck