two to choose from...what to do???
 

I have been looking for a mid '80s 911 for 4 or 5 months. I really appreciate the advice from this board. Here is where I am at: I have found two 1986 grey 911's. One is a ROW car w/113K. The owner really needs to sell. He said it needs an AC recharge (it has a new compressor and condenser) the hood clearcoat is peeling in a few spots and needs to be resprayed, the driver door stay is broken and needs fixed and that is it. It has had the clutch replaced at about 90K. No oil leaks. Will sell for $14,500. The other is a US car, 93K miles, has not had the 90K service, paint looks good in pictures, needs nothing according to the owner. very few oil drops in the garage after sitting for a while. Origanal clutch. He is asking $17400. Both are out of town. Both have most records. The US modle is a few hour drive away and the other is a plane trip away. What next???

Should I get a PPI on both? Should I pass on the ROW car? The price seems very good but...

TIA.

Mark

Mark, don't they have emissions inspections in St. Louis? If so will the ROW pass a visual inspection? Personally I would go with the 93K car. I always wonder what else is wrong with a car when the previous owner doesn't bother to fix the little things. No matter what you decide, do get the PPI.

Kurt,

thanks for the reply. My gut is telling me to go with the 93K mile car too, for the same reasons. I will be getting a PPI on it and if it looks good, I'll be back in business. If the PPI is not so good, then I will consider the other one.


Mark

Personally, unless you are looking for a project, I would pass on the ROW car. I have nothing against Euro models, but this one sounds as if it could end up being a headache.

Keep looking. JMO.
Mark

I also think you should keep looking. If you can drive the price down on the US model, that might be OK. Concerns are condition/longevity of the clutch and the valve guides. 90k+ miles might be about the point in the 3.2L's life where it starts smoking.

Good luck with your hunting,