Earlier VS Later

JetSpeed · 04:23 AM

Been looking for a Targa for quiet a while. Wondering if the earlier models say, a 1973, cost more for parts and labor to maintain than say a 1989 all things considered equal when comparing miles, wear, maintenance etc. and knowing each's weaknesses. I'm looking for a Hagerty condition 2 or 3 car FWIW. Not trying to start a 915 VS G50 war in case you believe that may be my linchpin. (;-)

In reading Peter Zimmermans' book, he states the earlier models can be more pricy. What say you all?

Thanks!

Coastr · 10-30-2017, 06:22 AM

Long hood parts are harder to come by, that's more to do with relative length of production than anything I think. Lots of parts are NLA.

Also the cars were produced in smaller numbers, and lots of them rusted away.

Labor would be very similar.

75 911s · 75 911s's Garage

Two completely different driving experiences. A 73 drives like a classic car. Skinny tires and narrow body. An 89 is heavier with more hp and more refinement. Power assist brakes, ac, electric windows etc. Both model years you selected are some of the more expensive than say 74-86 models. I think the 73 would be harder to find parts for and more prone to rust and just everything being worn out, but that can happen to an 89 too.

hcoles · 10-30-2017, 11:18 AM

I'd go with a G50 3.2. If you can get one with Nikasil cylinders that's a plus.

Trackrash · Trackrash's Garage

If I was just starting out I would go for an '89 G50.

The dilemma you are facing is that any '73 that has been carefully maintained and is in the condition you mentioned will be big $$$. Probably not something you would want as a daily driver, any way. Restoring or doing all the delayed maintenance on a long hood, or any aircooled 911 for that matter, will not be for the weak of wallet.

darrin · 10-30-2017, 01:00 PM

JetSpeed -- let me take a shot at directly answering your question " Wondering if the earlier models say, a 1973, cost more for parts and labor to maintain than say a 1989 all things considered equal when comparing miles, wear, maintenance etc. "

All other things being equal (e.g. ONLY looking at maintaining equally well set-up cars for normal wear and tear/maintenance issues), I suspect it would be a wash -- a major service, which would include a valve adjustment, brake fluid flush, spark plugs, oil filters, oil, fuel filters, air filters, etc. would likely be close to the same price for each -- similarly brake pads, tires, wiper blades, etc. are no more costly for one than the other. While a 73's fuel injection system (most used Mechanical Fuel Injection, later 911Ts used CIS) can be quirky to set up, so too do 89 carreras suffer from periodic sensor issues along with DME/DME relay issues.