$12 - $15k Budget for a 911

[bulldog90]

First time 911 buyer needs some help - I realize there are a number of different directions but I need some help - I am looking for a 911 that I can work on while I restore it but I dont want to buy something that is a complete waste. I have restored a number of corvettes over the years but have no idea what to look for in a 911. Any help would be appreciated

[dienstuhr]

With that budget you are looking for a midyear (1974-77), an SC (1978-83) or with a lucky stretch, a G15 Carrera 3.2 (1984-86).

Others will chime in I'm sure, but with that budget you need to keep some money saved for the inevitable service/repair bills. As they say, there's nothing so expensive as a cheap Porsche ;-)

Cheers

d.

[techweenie]

What is your strength? Bodywork, paint? Mechanical? Upholstery? Because in your price range, you're going to want to do as much of your own work as possible. I just sold a '73 coupe this morning in your price range, and can find you a car -- if I know what your project skills are.

[BE911SC]

Originally Posted by dienstuhr

Others will chime in I'm sure, but with that budget you need to keep some money saved for the inevitable service/repair bills. As they say, there's nothing so expensive as a cheap Porsche ;-)

Yes, add another 12-15K to your 12-15K purchase price to sort it out properly!

[racer]

Look for Rust pre 1977.. Look for CIS issues on 74-83 911's... Given age, many will have neglected suspensions (bushings, shocks etc). Headliners will be questionable. Some electronics may not work. AC won't be effective even if it does "work".

Is there a particular vintage you are looking for? Would you prefer a stock or modded car? What is your goal for the finished project?

imho, most 911's are $20K cars.. whether you spend $9K on basket or spend $12-14K for a decent "driver" or 20 (or even $20k+) for a really nice example.

[fastgeorge]

Hey Bulldog- I have a wide body 1984 Carrera coupe for sale(page 10 on the Pelican Parts listing) Thanks George (404) 580-9202

[porterdog]

FWIW I recently bought a '90 C4 for $15.2. It's needed some things, but less than $2k so far....

[hops911]

With regards to budget, I just bought a '85 Carrera for under $12K. Solid car, no rust, interior in good shape. Good driver, but the car's a "10-footer". Spent a lot time looking. Showed up at the buyer's place with cash and a trailer.

[nixtfy]

I emphasize regularly driven because if you find one in your price range where the owner lost interest and delayed maintenance you may have surprises. 15 k is challenging for a carrera with price and sorting, but an sc and sorting is easily done at under 15k. Maintenance not kept up to date on these can be expensive ranging from a rebuilt tranny, clutch, suspension, regular service, and the cis fuel related problems. Trust me after owning a few there are always unrelated expenses we seem to ignore /overlook once your engulfed in the 911 hobby. Good luck