84 Targa for consideration

Big Dave 928 · 07-01-2002, 12:08 PM

I'm a new guy to this forum in the process of searching for my future Porsche and found this 84 in So. CA and was wondering what people thought.

The ad lists it as a 'Europeon Model'. It lists a trans rebuild and a new clutch and its a single owner w/records car.

Anyone know this car?

What makes it a Euro model and does the $22K seem like a fair price?

Can someone tell me the difference between an '84 and an '88? I've seen a few late 80's 911's that I like as well.

Thanks,

Izzy

silverc4s · silverc4s's Garage

Izzy,
A European model could mean a number of things.. bought by a Military type or business expat and brought back when he returned to USA. OR a "Gray Market" car that someone had federalized, this was fairly common in the crazy 80's when US spec cars were pretty wimpy, etc.. If it really a Euro engine, it has about 20 hp or so over the US 3.2, and a higher CR, a GOOD thing now. You need to be sure that all the papers are in order for CA registration & smog checking, etc...

This 84 will have the less desireable, but still quite good 915 5 speed tranny, the 88 will have a G50, with fat gears, BW syncros, good for a LOT of HP, not an immediate concern here.

1984 was the first year Carrera model, 1988 was the next to last, so a lot of changes between the two. You will like the newer one better in this category, generally, IMHO... not always the case.

1984 to 1986 Carrera Targa in good condition should go for between $18,000 and $20,000 according to Keith Martin's book. So $22K seems to be on the high side for an 84.. but as always at this age, condition rules..Good hunting, Izzy

Joeaksa · 07-01-2002, 12:38 PM

Izzy,

The price is way too high unless its like new and very low miles. I just found out about a 88 911 here in Phoenix (read: no rust) and its selling for $22k. Do not believe its a Targa but forgotten.

I bought my 85 five years ago for $17.9 and its been a trooper, not giving me any problems. No reason to have to pay much higher now for the same model car. It was one owner, records back to day one and 60k miles.

I try to stay away from any "first year" car but the 84 is a good model and debugged already. I would not let the year bother me but the price is way too high IMHO.

Joe

LeeH · 07-01-2002, 01:10 PM

Just for reference, I paid $14K for my '84 Targa: 84K documented miles, sports seats, factory spoilers, sports shocks, brand new clutch. The car needed a little polishing and cleaning, but overall it is in great shape.

Big Dave 928 · 07-01-2002, 02:17 PM

Thanks, gentlemen.

I think I'll stick with the 89's.

Anybody know of an 89 Targa out there?

Izzy

Joeaksa · 07-01-2002, 03:44 PM

Izzy,

Nothing wrong with an 88 911. You will pay more for the same car if you go for a 89 over a 88 as its a "last model year" of the line, but as well it should hold its value better. Not that much difference in the two cars otherwise ...

Joe

07-01-2002, 11:42 PM

If you want to tell the difference on an 84 and an 88 start checking the chassis number. That will also tell you if it's a Euro or US model.

Check the Buyer's Guide on my homepage if you don't know how to id the chassis numbers.

Other ways to tell Euros and US's apart are: Bumpers, lights, speedo etc.

Another thing that can help you id an early car from a later would be to look at the gear lever. 84-86 cars (915 gearbox) have reverse on the right and back. Later 87-89 cars (G50 gearbox)have reverse to the left (beside first).

If you already know this then never mind