dumb(ish) comparo question (x-posted)
 

I've asked this on the 911 tech forum, so will repeat it here:

I'm gonna get my first Porsche. I think I want a 964 C4 (have had AWD cars since my Quattro coupe, 20 years ago), as I live in the Frozen North.

BUT: I see relatively few 964s on the used market, and often see G-50-equipped '87-'89 911s with lowish mileage for higher prices. This leads me to infer that the market is saying that they might well be more reliable cars than even re-sealed 964s and, therefore, more valuable.

Any opinions on the validity of this inference? Useful advice for an olde fahrt looking to give himself a retirement present? All gratefully received.

see my response to this question on the 944 BBS where yo also posted it.

AFJ

Grankin,
You really ought to look at the 996. It is a much more refined, driveable vehicle for an "old Fahrt." In addition, you will find lower mileage examples which are extremely reliable (do not let the "exploding" 996 engine urban myth concern you) and can be driven on short five minute trips like your Quattro without concern for getting the engine to proper operating temperature.

The bonus is there are tons of them out there and prices are in the low 30's for 30-40,000 mile cars.

Wait one! I may be going on 65, http://www.pelicanparts.com/support/smileys/ura.gif but I ain't so old I need "refined"!

Frankly, I like the looks of just about any 911 coupe or cab, but I am a sucker for AWD. As the Porsche is a combination birthday and retirement present to myself, my budget is ... errr ... modest. I'm allowing myself to spend $10K less than it'd take for a low-priced 996. Nevertheless, I'm going to expand the search to include them, see if I get lucky. Thanks!

Your original premise about the late 80's 911s is correct. The market greatly prefers these G50 equipped Porsches to the complex 964s. Please drive a C4 before purchase as many find the early 4WD system very obtrusive (and I do not believe you can switch it off manually in the 964). I would post your question on the 911 BBS as the group there is much more knowledgeable than I. Also search Pelican BBS archives as this is not the first time-or the last-that someone has had this problem (and what a great problem to have!!) Good Luck. Glenn

I just drove 2 C4s that had a rotary dial to switch the AWD/RWD - not sure how it works mechanically, but that was the intent of the device... :-)

[Nope - it's full-time AWD - I was incorrect... -DT]

964 c4 is full time AWD. The rotary dial is a diff locking switch to fully lock the diffs at low speed in low traction situations (ie when bogged) It doesnt disengage/engage between 2 and 4 wd.

The C4 doesnt give much up to the C2, except in weight. Its heavy. But the handbook claims idnetical 0-60 times (traction countering lightness, I suppose) Its a very, very capable road car.

I enjoy mine, as both road and track car.

Stuart 964 C4

Stuart - thanks for the clarification.