Looking for advice on 964 C4 (90)

[mmark666]

Hi,

I always wanted to get a Porsche and now is the time that I need a second car as a daily driver. Someone is offering a '90 964 targa C4 with 110k miles on craigslist and I like the car. There is an issue with the transmission (the CO describes it as a clunking sound), but the rest seems to be well maintained (new clutch, rebuild A/C, clean engine, no leaks).

But of course I'll get a PPI, since I am not a Porsche expert (but hopefully will be soon ).

My question is how much should I set aside for a transmission repair? I know the range will be quite large, but I just would like to get a feeling for the range?

If I do it myself, would it be better to look for a rebuild transmission and 'just' swap them or should I plan to do the complete rebuild myself (I never did something like that, but I am willing to do & learn)?

And finally, how much would be a fair price for a car like this?

Thanks,

Mark

[Don Plumley]

Great cars. PPI is the smartest money you'll spend. The issues with 90 era 964's are well known so a reputable shop can point them all out.

You can't budget for a tranny repair without knowing what it is. Could be low on fluid ($20), could be faulty accelerometers/diff problems (big dollars). I'm very cautious with the C4's due to the expense in the AWD systems - they are fixable but some of the parts are scary expensive.

Keep us posted...

[mmark666]

Thanks Don,

I know it's a very big range, but I think it's probably something more serious than just low fluid and due to the fact the the car still drives makes me hope that at least something in the gear box is still OK. I won't hold anybody accountable for his guestimate, I just have no idea how much a 'typical transmission rebuild' will cost.

Perhaps some of you could just post how much they paid for their transmission service/rebuild and tell me what was done?!

Thanks again,

Markus

[unclebilly]

That is a rare car. When I had my appraisal done, I was told there were only 158 C4 Targas in 1990.

I love mine - great car!

[mjshira]

You need to be careful. I just spent more than 10k on a 1990 and it is easy to do. Only trust a PPI from a shop that is recommended by PCA or Rennlist or here. Make sure to question everything that they check. Take 5+k off the price due to the noise. Plan to spend $$$ to get the car right.

OR

Spend 22-26 and get a car that is sorted.

But remember, even if the car is in good shape, it is 20 years old, and things can happen. You have to check the oil on a regular basis, keep it topped off, make sure to let the engine warm before you hammer it, etc.

If you go it right, it can be a great experience.