'73 RSR Clone from a 964 Base
 

Looking to pick up a 964 for a backdate project. Any particular model better then another for a longhood RSR clone build? Widebody vs narror body car, 2wd vs 4wd, etc? Also, can anyone recommend a kit that works best on the 964? I realize that things will have to be relocated, etc. Also, any steel body part options? While fiberglass is light, i feel that for a street car, steel is probably safer. Thoughts? Thanks Guys!

Starting w/ a w/b is best but the initial cost is also highest

I'd avoid AWD models

You can also start w/ n/b and weld on steel 930 flares like Geoffrey did on his 3.8RS build

There is no kit you will need to pick up the pieces and match them up

Thanks! Why do you say to avoid awd's?

The AWD setup is way too complicated and the trans is a one off, unique to the 964C4, and so not supported by anyone outside of Porsche

+1 I would stay away from AWD.

AWD rules.

I'd say nb because your wheel options are greater. Also, the C4 chassis shouldn't be overlooked. Switch to a C2 trans and you have about the same starting point as factory race cars. Mainly the hydraulic vs vacuum brake system can be an advantage.

Forgot to say you would delete the front diff and center tube when switching to 2wd

So, this has nothing to do with backdating...Just want to confirm that a C4 isn't more difficult to backdate. Thanks!!

Group911, can you ellaborate on this a little more. Is the C4 chasis different then the C2 chasis? If so, how?

Not so much the chassis but completely different brake controls. C2 is vacuum operated versus hydraulic on c4. Bill has an excellent writeup at the top of the 964 forum that covers the differences

Also, on the body, I'd flare your quarters with early style flares because of the different torsion cover look and it may be necessary to do the complete quarters to use the early tail lights.
There was a really good thread in the 911 tech forum on the conversion. I think it was by "eimkeith"?

Group9 is correct that the electro-hyd brake boost of a C4 is a plus for a high perf brake setup, but other than that a C4 is a nightmare.

As I said in the first post the trans is junk and must be replaced anyway to convert to rwd as it can not be converted to 2wd, the AWD hyd system is plumbed into the brakes too making that another issue.

Joel Reiser did a 2 or 3 part series in Pano about the issue of converting a 964 C4 to 2 wd, the short version, not for the faint hearted. I would start my research by obtaining that and reading it thouroughly.

The 964 3.8RS was built from a n/b C4 for the brake booster, the turbo and turbo look both use different trailing arms which limit rear wheel size

Here is the conversion thread. http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911-technical-forum/318580-zuffenhaus-c2-72-rsr-project.html

That started w/ a regular C2

the C4 conversion to C2 was a series written by Joel Reiser and published in Pano

Correct it has nothing to do with making it a turbo look car but it would make it easyer as far as differential in the c4 compared to the c2. Its just less to have to deal with. You will be dealing with enough finding and fitting body panels. So why deal with extra stuff if you dont have to? Its just my opinion.

I guess the big question is what you intend to use the car for? If it's just the look or actual race use?
If it's just for looks, I wouldnt discount a C4 as a driver.
They can be a great deal because of their perceived deficiencies.

The longhood conversion is purely for looks. This will be a street car with little track time, if any. I'm really looking to build a fun weekend driver that has a unique look....plus I like the added safety of the newer car (airbags, etc.).

I was thinking about a C4. How is the reliability compared to a C2? Also, how's the drive compare? I assume the awd system in the 964 isn't early as advanced at in newer 911's, hence you lose some of that sporty porsche feel. Or am i wrong?

I have both and enjoy driving both but they are really different. On the track with the C4, the answer to most situations is more throttle. The C2 takes more talent.

Hate to argue with a guy who both knows a ton and is an extremely valuable forum resource, but Bill, that comment is total bulls ****e.

The lack of support and the difficulty of converting to RWD (fools errand) I'll grant, but there is very little evidence to support it being 'junk'.

I wanted an AWD car; wouldn't have it any other way really, so I did a *ton* of research. The 964 AWD setup is more complex than later versions, and has some places that can bite you, but in generally it's pretty bombproof.

OP, decide if you want AWD or classic-911 RWD handling, then do your research and go from there.

$0.02

Thanks. I'm leaning towards AWD b/c of the advantage in daily driving. Any major differences in MY's? Also, any options a must to look for? Was an LSD an option on the C4 or only C2?