87 Targa questions

[grey71]

I came across a 87 targa that has 88k miles and the guy wants 15500 for it. I really have only read up on the SC (1978-1983). What do I have to look out for with the 87? Does this sound like a good deal. Any help would be great. Thanks!

Grey

[masraum]

Get the valve guides checked. They are probably fine, but it's good to check. Also the '87 came with a redesigned rubber centered clutch similar to the one in the SC, but not known to be as bad as the SC model. There was also a clutch fork shaft bearing update. Neither is really serious, and there is an easier clutch shaft update than the original.

You'll be getting the G-50 transmission, computer controlled fuel and air, and a better A/C. Other than that it's the same as getting an SC checked out, check the engine, trans, and body with a PPI.

Sounds like a really good price if it's in good shape.

[MBAtarga]

Dont overlook getting a PPI!

Consider Performance Imports at Ptree Ind Blvd at 285 - Bob Sanderson - 770 457-5550

[schulr]

can you post the full details when you see the car? agree with the other post on the valve guides, but from what I am hearing, you are almost guaranteed to have to address the valve guides sooner rather than later. Might be a good idea to find one that has already gone through this as it is not cheep. Due a search on valve guides and you'll see the issues.

Also look at Waynes list of checking out a p car. The price shown does look attractive, something must be there?

Bob

[Don Plumley]

Steve hit most the high points on the head.

I respectfully disagree with Bob's point on the valve guides. I don't think it is a foregone conclusion that all these cars will need their guides replaced. Just like the various 964 problems don't affect all cars. That being said, some of the recent posts indicate they seem to reach critical wear very suddenly. Since I have an 87 with 68K, I have to be optimistic about this one

At 88K miles, it should have a new clutch. Which means you'd like to see the receipt that shows the update kit installed. The O2 Sensor is near end of life. Would be good if the Cylinder Head Temp sensor was replaced with the updated 2 wire sensor. As with any used car, it's all about records and condition - how was the car treated?

Good Luck!

[michaelw]

If the car checks out as being ok, that's a great price! Everything has been covered above as for what you should look out for. Another thing I would do personally, is pull up the carpets and take a look at the floors all around for any kind of water damage.

Let us know more!

Michael
87 Targa

[old_skul]

15500 for an '87 is a steal, if it passes a PPI. Leakdown and compression testing is pretty much all that's necessary with these motors; everything else that would break is easily repaired. Even if you had to drop in a rebuilt tranny, $15k for a car worth $20k is a steal.

[scottb]

I paid slightly less than that for my 84 Targa with 77,000 miles. Southern California car with original paint and interior (both in very good condition), and with good mainteance documentation. Depending on the condition of the car, and its originality and documentation, $15,500 seems like a good price. Beware the old adage, however -- you get what you pay for. Thorough PPI is a must.

Good luck!

[nostatic]

Originally posted by old_skul
15500 for an '87 is a steal, if it passes a PPI. Leakdown and compression testing is pretty much all that's necessary with these motors; everything else that would break is easily repaired. Even if you had to drop in a rebuilt tranny, $15k for a car worth $20k is a steal.

Maybe...maybe not. It is a $20K car if it is very clean. If instead it is a multiple owner, little/no records, this-and-that needs to be fixed, etc car, then it strikes me as priced low, but not a steal. I've seen lots of lower miles allegedly "clean" cars that I walked away from. It all depends...