Thoughts on '86 911 with ? engine

[Rod Handsfield]

Since it is said that "all 911's are 20 thousand dollar cars". Does purchasing this one make sense? 1986 Carrera 3.2 Coupe blk/blk 96K

[BK911]

Yea, I was looking at that one too. Nice SC or Carerra drivers can be bought for ~$15k, maybe less if the seller needs to pay some bills. If you pay $10k for this one and can rebuild an engine your self you may break even. If you have to pay to get the engine done, you are in way over your head.

Nice looking car though.

A leakdown test may help determine what is wrong with it, and provide a better estimate on repairs.

[gregwils]

+1 if you can do it yourself. The main advantage of this car would be you will know the condition of your motor. That can be a big advantage over buying a nice carrera driver for $17, then finding out it uses oil (which won't be discovered in a PPI) and needs a top end. Ask me how I know.

PS - if you do all the work - new rings, valves, valve springs, head work, recondition cams and rockers, chains and sprockets, intermediate bearings and new rod bolts for good measure - under $4k. You would have a really pretty nice car once you address the rust.

[Rot 911]

The engine is not the only problem. That car is getting/already has some serious rust issues. I'd walk away from that car.

[GothingNC]

My brother is selling his 84 Carrera Coupe for the same price but no rust and perfect running engine with upgraded AC.

Just needs the sunroof cables replaced and is in decent shape for it's age.

I wish I had the space and funds for another one...

[geshaghi]

Projects like this rarely make financial sense in the long run. If your initial budget is limited but you want a car now, then you can buy a project and do the work over time.