Introduction
 

Gents,
Just wanted to say a quick hello for my first post. I'm deep in a learning curve and plan to spend most of my time in the 964/993 threads. Looking at a '89 993's at the moment, but very open to input on buying my first Porsche.

I was very close to buying an '89 Carrera 4 until I learned of the complexities in that model regarding 4WD and unneccessarily excessive parts (more to go wrong maintenance-wise).

I would very much like a car that I can work on to some degree. I am not a mechanic but used to love doing tune-ups and simple maintenance.

Looking forward to learning all I can from you all.

Thanks...

Welcome!

Please add your location to your profile.

If you want something you can work on yourself, get a pre-964 car.

Welcome.

993 were only made from 95-98 (94 in ROW)
964 are 89-94
Before that are "Carrera 3.2's" Then "SC"'s

Don't be scared of the 964 or 993 AWD system, they are pretty robust! But the 993 system is way simpler, cheaper & lighter.

Pardon me, I meant to say '89 964.

As I learn all that I can about which 911 model and year I would most be interested in, can someone suggest a good book or two to get me started in my education of the 911 Porsches? Also, if you have a good checklist for me for a PPI, perhaps more geared to a buyer/owner it would be greatly appreciated.
Much thanks in advance...

I would recommend Pelican or Rennlist. With a join date of this month you will not have scratched the surface.

As for the 964 there are DIYs for most everything (so you can certainly work on your own car). It has a great number of improvements over prior models and is reasonably priced (especially compared to the 993).

Welcome...Take you time and do your homework...If you have friends/acquaintances who own Porsches, see if they will let you drive theirs just to get the feel of the cars (But don't take up a seller's time if you aren't seriously interested in his/her car)...Join your local PCA and attend their events.

You'll know when when your car comes along and even if you miss out on a good one, another will follow...And by all means enjoy yourself...Don't make a pleasant experience into work.

T

Mr. Rocker:

Where in Oregon are you? Lots of good Porsche people in this state!

I suggest you test drive an SC, Carrera, 964 and 993. They are all vastly different cars- but ultimately it is all about what suits you best.

Might want to say hi on the PNW forum also! SmileWavy

Cheers,

Paul.

Zimmerman's book is a good reference for most models. There is great DIY info for all model years. As the cars get newer, they get more complex. the G50 Carreras (87-88) hit a sweet spot for reliability, drive ability and DIY. 964's bring a bigger engine, working HVAC and a nice mix of old school look with more modern features. 993 eliminate valve adjustments (nice), and bring reliability to a very high level. Bill's thread on 964-993 system analysis is a great read.

Good Luck!