1970 Porsche 911e or 1975 Porsche 911s

[RdC911]

I've tried to look for similar questions, but didn't find them, so forgive me (I'm a newbie) if you've read questions like these a million times before...

I've always wanted to buy a classic 911, but this is the 1st time I've been serious about it. I've gone through quite a bit of literature and have seen dozens of 911s' and I'm down to 2 cars to choose from:

My first intent was to buy a 1970 911E in what seems to be its original burgundy paint and black interior, together with correct Fuchs alloys and the late front lip. But then somehow I started drifting towards a white 1975 911S with just 2 previous owners and totally original engine and body...

Taking into account that both cars are in rather good condition, and had fastidious owners in the past.... what do you recommend it's the best buy? BTW the 1970 is 5,000 USD more expensive than the much maligned 1975.

911s are expensive where I currently live (Cancun, Mexico), I originally come from Spain, plus pretty much all the cars I've seen are a complete mess... these two being notable exceptions. They may be expensive by US standards (25k and 20k respectively), but here seem to be priced right.

Also I was wondering how expensive it would be to convert the 1975 911S into European Carrera Spec (as both are US spec cars). I know these are expensive engines to work on, but I don't want to take the easy route and transplant a later unit. I see value on refurbishing its original engine... There was some light blue smoke at start up (not at overrun) maybe not enough to worry about a rebuild, but even so I'd like to 'unrestrict' the emissions.

So I guess the question is: which one will offer the most rewarding driving experience, and the less troubling ownership.

Any advice welcome. I've tried to make up my mind reading countless forum posts, reviews, and articles, but I'm still undecided and more confused by the minute.

Thanks for your help!

[racer]

The euro spec carrara motor is expensive.. mostly because of the MFI. You could make a "mock" version.. 2.7, high compression pistons, new cams and Webers and get to 210-220hp, combined with SSI's and a sport muffler.

I would imagine a proper Euro 2.7 motor to run what, $20K? That's why most folks spend less and convert to a 3.2 for similar HP, better TQ too. But even that's not cheap.

The harder part is adding the rear flares (carreras can fit wider wheels than a Regular S")

In the US, the midyear (74-77) is much maligned and undesired, mostly because of the 2.7 motor and the emissions equipment that stangled it (both from a HP and longevity standpoint). A '70E would be a much more sought after car, even though the overall performance of the two cars is similar.

You don't mention where in mexico you are, but why not look for one from the US and import it?

[Macroni]

The E would serve as a better value even at $5k premium....

[RdC911]

Thanks for the feedback! I think I'll be much better off if I head towards the 1970 911 E.
I still quite like the body line of the mid-years, but all those stories about very expensive engine rebuilds are putting me off.
I'm meeting the owner next week in Mexico City.
So let's see if I don't need to use my flight back, and return home driving...
It's exciting!

[ossiblue]

Just some questions. What do you mean by the statement that the E has "the late front lip?" Has the car been modified away from a long hood? Does the E still have the MFI injection? Is the engine original to the car?

I ask these questions because many times these cars have lost much of the originality that gives them their greater desirability and without pictures it's hard to comment accurately. Also, according to your post, you want a car with "...less troubling ownership." It will be critical, IMO, that if you consider the E it needs to have been well maintained and thoroughly checked out. MFI is not a trouble free system though neither is CIS--just be aware. If the car is has been altered away from its original engine/injection, then that's another decision for you to make. Keep us informed of your thoughts.

[Jim Richards]

RdC911, why do you prefer the 75 911S? Is it the short hood / impact bumper looks that you find preferable to the long hood style? If so, and if you like the flared rear fenders of the Carrera, why not look for a US-spec Carrera from the mid-late 1970's and hot-rod the engine a bit, like racer suggested? Alternatively, why not look for a nice used SC? More power than the 75 or the 70, rear flared fenders, and an easy platform to hot-rod if you feel like it. Add a ducktail and you're rockin'!

[RdC911]

Hi everybody!

I actually like better the older cars, my favorite being a 1969 911S (as per Steve McQueen taste), but when I saw the 1975 in the flesh, I quite liked the unadulterated shape of those cars, plus the fact that the color was silver, made it very appealing to me. The owner had gone through an expensive leather retrim in light tan, and the color combination looked great. Also I like the fact that he has been its owner for over 20 years, and that he knows what he's talking about.

What I meant about the front lip it's this (see pictures here: <http://picasaweb.google.com/Fragmentarias/1970911E#> ). Actually what I like of both cars is that none of them have wings or flared fenders. The E one has its original engine (matching numbers) with no mods I'm aware off...

Thanks again for all your feedback!

[ossiblue]

Originally Posted by RdC911

Hi everybody!

I actually like better the older cars, my favorite being a 1969 911S (as per Steve McQueen taste), but when I saw the 1975 in the flesh, I quite liked the unadulterated shape of those cars, plus the fact that the color was silver, made it very appealing to me. The owner had gone through an expensive leather retrim in light tan, and the color combination looked great. Also I like the fact that he has been its owner for over 20 years, and that he knows what he's talking about.

What I meant about the front lip it's this (see pictures here: <http://picasaweb.google.com/Fragmentarias/1970911E#> ). Actually what I like of both cars is that none of them have wings or flared fenders. The E one has its original engine (matching numbers) with no mods I'm aware off...

Thanks again for all your feedback!

I'm with you, I like the earlier cars better. From a brief look, here are some things I noticed:

Looking at the photos, the "front lip" is actually an "S" bumper/spoiler--nice addition and a period correct option. Car looks nice and well kept--interior/exterior look very good. However, the engine appears to have been converted to carbs. This may or may not be important to you, however it does have an effect on originality and value in the market place.

Wheels appear to be 14" fuchs which were part of the "comfort package" offered, along with self-leveling hydro-pneumatic struts on the front. You may wish to inquire about the front suspension if you're serious about the car--most cars with that option have had them replaced with standard struts/suspension as an improvement. If the wheels and suspension are as described, that's a plus for originality, but may not be the best for handling--it would be your call.

All in all, a very nice looking car, IMO. Just be aware that there are some mods and changes showing (rear bumperettes too) that may cause you to further investigate and ask questions, especially since it is being offered at a bit more money.

[racer]

Good looking "E". Hopefully the bottom is as nice as the top side. Be sure to check the front pan for rust, battery boxes too, longitudinals and floor pans as well.

I too, would hope the hyropneumatic front struts have been converted over by now.