1977 vs 1978-83 SC

[bozjc]

Boz here-new to the forum and I'm looking to buy my first 911. I must say that this site and members have been very helpful to a newbie like myself! QUESTION: Does the 1977 Coupe have a body different from the SC body? I know the engines are different (2.7 vs 3.0) but what else is different???

[Bill Verburg]

Originally Posted by bozjc

Boz here-new to the forum and I'm looking to buy my first 911. I must say that this site and members have been very helpful to a newbie like myself! QUESTION: Does the 1977 Coupe have a body different from the SC body? I know the engines are different (2.7 vs 3.0) but what else is different???

A '77 Carrera 3.0 has the same body as a SC. These were RoW only models and are somewhat rare on this side of the pond.

The Carrera 3.0 was built in '76 and '77 and the engine was the precursor of the later SC. Both are 3 liter aluminum block and use the same heads and cams, the C3 uses the 2.7 crank, the SC has a beefier crank derived from the 930.

US '77 had the narrower rear fenders and used a 2.7liter block

[javadog]

The biggest difference is whether or not the rear fenders are flared, as Bill noted. There is a little more structure in the fuel tank area of an SC but for the most part, there are no significant differences.

JR

[bozjc]

Good to know! Originally, I was searching for an SC Coupe but that market is a little to competitive for me. So I'm starting to consider other 911 years.

Thanks!

[zelrik911]

I think the SC also had a power brake booster & a clutch cable 'helper' spring, but the previous models didnt????

[javadog]

No, those were introduced in 1977.

JR

[racerboyrt]

77 is actually a pretty nice year to own. It has power brakes and galvanized chassis like an SC but is lighter, it feels more like an early car than the later, heavier SC

[bozjc]

That's very interesting, racerboyrt. How easily can I swap a 3.2L into the 76?

[racerboyrt]

Not really any more difficult than a 3.2 swap into an SC if I recall correctly.

[77Targa0912]

'77 US 911S are worth looking at if they have had their 2.7 issues addressed or they have had a nice 3.0 conversion.

[bozjc]

I'm really digging the 76-77 because they seem more affordable and a good start for a newbie with a limited budget. Although, the wrong 911S can cost me more than a SC in the long run if I'm not careful. How about the suspension on a 77 vs SC? I believe the only change was the 2 piece trailing arm suspension. Can you guys elaborate on the suspension differences?

[mike gilbert]

I think most who get a 76 or 77 up-grade to the aluminum front cross member and adjustable rear spring plates from an sc maybe even the brakes, its all modular. Get the best one you can no matter the year. I rather have a nice 76 than a unappreciated SC.

[Tidybuoy]

Originally Posted by pmax

I don't suggest getting the 76-77 unless you specifically want a narrow body.

SC's are still a great buy at this time with a known solid engine, better tires, handling and improved cis.

I love my narrow body. As far as handling, maybe ask some of my local PCA SC's, Carreras, and Boxters that struggle to keep up with me on the mountain curves. Less weight has its advantages.

[javadog]

Originally Posted by bozjc

I'm really digging the 76-77 because they seem more affordable and a good start for a newbie with a limited budget. Although, the wrong 911S can cost me more than a SC in the long run if I'm not careful. How about the suspension on a 77 vs SC? I believe the only change was the 2 piece trailing arm suspension. Can you guys elaborate on the suspension differences?

Originally Posted by mike gilbert

I think most who get a 76 or 77 up-grade to the aluminum front cross member and adjustable rear spring plates from an sc maybe even the brakes, its all modular. Get the best one you can no matter the year. I rather have a nice 76 than a unappreciated SC.

The '77's actually got the two-piece trailing arms. Some have the aluminum front cross member as well, like the Carrera 3.0. Biggest difference was probably sway bar size and rear wheel/tire width. For most markets, 1976 was the last year you had un-boosted brakes.

JR

[NYNick]

Does anyone know the actual weights of the 76/77's versus the 78's? Seems to me the HP/weight ratio would be equal or better in an SC?

BTW, nice car Vern!

[ChristianR]

Originally Posted by NYNick

Does anyone know the actual weights of the 76/77's versus the 78's? Seems to me the HP/weight ratio would be equal or better in an SC?

BTW, nice car Vern!

76/77 weighs around 2470lbs, the 78 is about 2720

[javadog]

Porsche listed the weights as:

911S USA 1120kg
911SC USA 78-79 1160kg
911SC USA 80-83 1250kg

Numbers are for coupes with no options. Targas and car with options could be a lot heavier.

JR

[ChristianR]

Originally Posted by javadog

Porsche listed the weights as:

911S USA 1120kg
911SC USA 78-79 1160kg
911SC USA 80-83 1250kg

Numbers are for coupes with no options. Targas and car with options could be a lot heavier.

JR

taigas are about 110lbs heavier over a coupe

[NYNick]

So about 88 pounds for about 8 more HP, all options being equal. Not bad.

[OsoMoore]

I own a 79SC and I have driven a friend's 911S. The S was lighter and a little "twitchy". I can see the appreciation for the 911S, but for looks and a little more advanced design, the SC is where I want to be.