getting the itch for a 993
 

I have a 1983 911SC coupe that is well sorted/customized. Runs near perfect I have no complaints other than I have to work on the AC. Beautiful car fully paid for I really like it. Also have a 1975 914 that has been converted into a GT clone with a 911 3.0 also fully paid for. Metal flares the whole deal and she runs very well, a real go kart on the street. A few oil leaks but other than that super clean. My plan is to retire in about 5 years and I know I will have to downsize to one car as a toy. I could easily downsize to either of these and be happy. But I've always loved the look of a 993. I have never driven one or ridden in one but I just love how they look. If I could sell the SC and GT clone I could easily buy a nice clean 993 and not owe anything. Is this a crazy idea ? I know the 993 is much more refined than either of my cars but as I get older that may be OK. I have not made up my mind just kicking it around. If I were to pull the trigger I would prefer a 1995 coupe. It's good to dream right ? :D

Last of the air cooled........
 

Great way to ride off into the sunset! Well, eventually, anyway. I'm in the same boat, have a paid for SC that is currently getting a 3.3SS engine but also like the 993 models. I'm already retired so adding a second Pcar is not likely to happen. I have owned the SC for over 15 years so it would be like selling family to get rid of it. Like you said, you can always dream!

As an SC (former) and 3.2 owner I purchased a 993 a few months ago. Initially I thought if one had to go it would be the 993 as the 3.2 is simpler, cheaper to own and has the classic look. If I still own both at retirement age and needed to downsize to one I thought I would keep the 3.2 for the same reasons above.

Now that I've owned the 993 for a few months it has made that decision very difficult. The 993 is fantastic. It is much more complex (not thrilled about that) but the comfort and driving experience is wonderful. Porsche did an outstanding job on this car.

I am more interested in a 964. Not too old, not too new, still retains *some* of the simplicity while adding a much more modern feel under the surface. I get a headache thinking about replacing all those 20 year old bushings on the multilink rear suspension on a 993...egawd!

I've owned a 993 for 5 years. Its a great car and a bargain compared to what early 911s and 356s go for. Yes, test drive one if you can. I bought it because it was a good blend of classic and a modern Porsche that can be driven anywhere. Watch out for all the usual things (check all the forums for their weak spots). I have transformed mine with new Bilstein suspension, lwf, chip, mufflers and a close ratio gearbox. :)

When I purchased my 993 it already had Eibach springs and Bilstein HD shocks and struts with 18" wheels. I thought, before my first drive in it, "this is going to be stiff and harsh on the street". I was amazed at how comfortable the ride was, much nicer than the stock suspension on my '84 yet it corners very flat.

The modern suspension, while complex, is incredible. I may buy 17" wheels just because I wouldn't mind even more comfort (I must be getting old) but the 18" wheels look great and I may try to keep two sets, 17" and 18" if I take it to the track.

split it into 2 cars:

1. an old SWB or LWB hotrod - rough, anachronistic and FUN

2. a 993 - the most modern air-cooled Porsche made and can be tricked out with more power, better trans. etc. (all for less than the cost of a McLaren)

Had both
 

I owned a 993 and '69 911 at the same time for two years. Purchased the 993 with intent of selling the '69 but could not do it when the time came. It was very difficult deciding which to drive each day, though not a bad dilemma all things considered. Ultimately sold the 993 because I needed more space and also knew I could never find another early 911 for a low price.

The 993 was a great car, all the power you ever wanted and very comfortable with all creature comforts. Plus the spoiler is cool when it comes up at speed.

Good luck.

Thanks for the feedback guys. Today I went out to the garage and fired up the 911SC with PMO carb's and SSI's with M&K 2 in 2 out muffler and it gave me chills ! Next to her in the man cave is the GT clone waiting for me to install lug nuts on the BBS wheels with brand new Bridgestone Potenza's. She has a 3.0 with Weber carb's and headers with M&K 2 in 2 out...........I may just have to keep both !

I realize I am in the minority vs. all the 993 love I read on the interwebs. I spent a few days driving a buddy's 993 turbo when I visited Norcal several year's ago. I was expecting it to be a nice blend of my beloved impact bumper 930 and something more modern and comfortable. I expected to love it, but didn't. It was kind of "meh" for me. Sure it was stupid fast, but I found I was overwhelmed by the "moderness" and comfort, and the old air-cooled character was pretty much lost IMO. If I want a modern 911 I'll buy a CPO 997 with a warranty thanks very much.

I have heard that many people like the na 993 much more than the turbo version.