911 SC Purchase or Run???

[Carrera911RSR]

That's a pretty desirable 911SC. It looks like an original and honest car with quite a bit of documentation. In my opinion it's worth close to 20k, especially if it has original paint. I personally would never paint a car that has acceptable original paint.

You'll figure out the A/C if that is really important to you. However, I personally don't think it is that expensive or hard to do. The nice thing is that the system is still in the car.

I think you would be getting a very nice first 911 if you go with this one. You'll be hooked.

Let us know how it goes!

[NYNick]

I disagree on the importance of a working A/C…maybe in Texas and Florida, but not here in NY.

And this car with the books and extensive records is sounding better and better. I think original, worn paint is better than a crappy re-spray. People are looking for "it's only original once" type cars these days.

Better move fast if the price is right. This car may not last long.

Nick

[dad911]

New clutch and head studs, If you like the color... get a PPI for rust & compression, and buy it.

[Sox Fan]

If nothing significant shows up in a PPI and there are records for recent work, that car is worth $20k in today's market. Looks like a very solid SC to me.

All the issues you noted are typical for an SC with that mileage. I think a solid SC with 100k miles is a really good classic Porsche value.

[canamfan]

Personally I'd be surprised if the car is sold for less than $20k, all the right stuff is there to justify a $20k + asking price. 7 & 8" orig. Fuchs, orig. paint, orig. A/C components existing (added market value regardless if inop. or where you live & whether you need it or not, factory components are there), maint. records, matching Michelins in good shape, orig. interior, mostly everything is working etc. PPI of course, but even with given info. so far, this 911 SC looks to be a better than average buy

[L8apex32]

The (most) expensive part of the car is the engine. A PPI will check that, and plenty of other things. Short of a PPI, the minimum to do is a leak down test. I just would not buy a Porsche (like this at least) without a leak down test.

And, I'll give a "me too" to the idea that SC's are up up up in price and cars like it seem to sell for $20k or more. It is amazing what these 30+ year old cars are selling for. What you are willing to pay is up to you, not up to others.

Good luck.

[911SauCy]

I got my '78 SC on a WHIM!

Like a car that was sitting untouched in a parking garage for 7-8years kind of whim. No PPI, no understanding of history, and the PO didn't even put fresh gas in it before mercilessly cranking on it until it sputtered to life.

And 4 years later it is the most amazing mechanical adventure and driving experience I'd have never imagined.

Get a PPI and buy it...or you'll see the prices in 5 years and be kicking yourself.

[manonmasi]

As I said in another post, alot depends what the supply and demand is, don't know what it is in Muncie, but I would say that I would crab that car if it were in my town, Los Angeles, at 16K.

[Eli W]

+1 on kicking yourself.

It use to be the Carrera's that where thought of as the desirable cars to have, performance wise they hold their own and they are fantastic cars.

Not to worry you but I looked at SC targa that was beat to hell and need 20k of work and the guy had a buyer at 12k on car would be willing to pay 5k for.

If the owner posted the car here there would be a line for that car.

[86 ssinit]

Bought this 83 last year. Same as yours no ac, rock chips and no heat. What a blast to drive just a great fun car. If you can get that car for under 20k buy it. You won't regret it.

[manbridge 74]

You'll never get a shot at purchasing this car. All the hawks are now swooping into Muncie to case the address shown, waving cash in front of the owner.

J/k..... hope you get it.

[Bill Douglas]

My only concerns are headstuds (yay, they have been done - this is a biggie) and rust. A PPI with the right people will know. I'd be all over this car as it seems a real beauty.

edit: don't worry about stone chips. My SC wears them with pride.

[outtreking]

Thanks for all of the posts and helpful information everyone. You have all definitely made me feel a lot more comfortable about this car. Now to negotiating!

[OsoMoore]

Don't forget to post pictures if/when you bring her home!

[Trackrash]

Although others have mentioned rust, I would suggest that you have an experienced Porsche EXPERT, check it over. Sounds like it has been taken care of mechanically, but even with the "galvanized" bodies, rust can still be a major concern.

Check out this horror story. http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911-technical-forum/798211-porsche-approved-rusty-carrera-3-2-a.html

I'm not trying to imply this car is anything like the one in that thread, but just have someone who is familiar with these cars to check it out.

BTW, I think that original paint is a big plus.

[Bill Douglas]

Originally Posted by OsoMoore

Don't forget to post pictures if/when you bring her home!

Yep, rules are rules, must post lots of pics

[boogie_man]

Well ? Is it in your driveway yet. Don't let that get away if the price is right as these guys are correct on their value plus, they're running out of the 70s 911s and these will be the next good selling cars. I'm on my 3rd SC, love driving it, and wished I never parted with the other 2. Very bulletproof car and I've never lost money on any of them. Good luck and great looking car.....

[Bob Kontak]

Originally Posted by boogie_man

Don't let that get away if the price is right

+1 I would modify only to "close to right".

There are so, so many things that can chow on your wallet if you are fussy.

This looks like a fairly premium car. Not mint, few are. But if real mint you are talking $30k and perhaps $30k+. After the the $30k on a low mileage "puff" you are still looking at the second generation parts in a very few thousand miles.

[Eli W]

+1 one Bob,

If this car is in the ball park on price and has a good PPI by someone at a good Porsche shop buy it.

This guy could ask 24K and get close to it.

[MBAtarga]

If you are going to try and get the AC to work - it's going to cost closer to $2000 - not $200.
That does look/sound like a solid car. Be sure to get a PPI!