High Mileage 911SC's

mizatthew · 03-27-2011, 11:51 AM

Shopping for my first 911- have a question about the 911SC's and high mileage.

I know they have a great reputation for reliability and being 'bulletproof', but- if you have an SC that has been worked on (replaced tensioners, airbox upgraded, head studs replaced), how long can you really expect it to run before things start falling off? If you have the extra money and you are looking at two of similar characteristics but one has 70k less miles- the lower mileage is still a better car right?

My question comes from the fact I was looking at one with the various fixeds done on it and 170k miles, and it still makes me nervous because I'm just not used to buying a car with that much mileage on it.

Thanks!

VFR750 · 03-27-2011, 12:19 PM

I bought mine with 96k. Now at 126k. Passed a ppi when i bought it, still seems strong after many track days. 170k is pretty high, but if its been mantained properly, passes a ppi, who knows? Could be one of those 250k engines! SC are based on a strong al case, got 10mm rod bolts for rpms, low stress 180hp for 3L. Overall one of the most durable, Divlar studs not withstanding.

Cooper911SC · 03-27-2011, 12:45 PM

I bought my 1981 SC in 2001 with around 170K.

Just rolled over 299,000 this morning. (cant upload pic from iPhone) NO major engine work yet! I have records back to '87 or '88.

Yes it leaks oil from the pulley side crank seal... But that is sort of par for the course.

Just make sure the tensioner update and a pop valve are done and then enjoy the car.

Oil changes and valve adjusts etc. will be easy DiY.

As long as the car gets a clean PPI go for it.

Cooper

SpeedracerIndy · 03-27-2011, 01:02 PM

I'd rather have a higher mileage SC that has been meticulously maintained, than a low mileage one that has sat for long periods of time without being ran. Make sure the head studs are in good shape, and drive the crap out of it.

mizatthew · 03-27-2011, 02:05 PM

Cooper- over 299k- awesome!

mpetry · mpetry's Garage

+1 on the person who said they'd rather have a high mileage, etc.

My SC has 190K and it's like a new car - of course it's had "everything" so hardly surprising.

I think it comes down to how comfortable you feel doing the maintenance and repair yourself. If you're a pretty good wrench, these cars are very easy to work on. A 30 year old car will need some fiddling. Power windows, all the linkages, brakes seem to need work frequently.

The main thing is to find a car with evidence of long term care and maintenance - a book full of receipts is usually a good clue. Finding one that has 160K miles, current owner has had the car 3 months, and a 2000 watt stereo, run away quick.