Looking for Advice on 911 Purchase

[KMoore68]

Hi,

I am looking at a 79 911 and was hoping to get your thoughts. This is my first 911, I'm hoping to drive it weekends and the odd day to work. I would like to do some work on the car.

I have the VIN and the car was listed as a 1979 but the VIN indicates a 1980, is this a big deal?

It has rims from what looks like the early 90's, it doesn't have fuchs. The steering wheel looks like it is from a late 80's, it appears to have an airbag, would that be functional? The seats are not the original seats, the seller indicated they are 3.2 sport seats, what does that mean?

It is in my price range but I'm not sure if these are bad signs? I am planning on getting a PPI done, any suggestions on what to ask/look for.

The car is located across the country, so if the PPI checks out, I may have an uncle have a look but I may just buy it/ship it without seeing it before hand, does that seem crazy?

Any other things to look out for?

Thanks,
Kevin

[Macroni]

I would put up pictures and provide much more specific information such as vin and motor serial number. Based on what you posted I would be a hard pass for the following reasons.... Not local and no fuchs........ too much risk for a first Porsche........... it is better to spend more in the beginning then much much more in the end.....

[NYNick]

Welcome Kevin. You are smart to be asking questions here. There are a bunch of HIGHLY knowledgeable owners here who I'm sure will chime in.

First, we need pictures. Rod Stewart put it perfectly. "Every picture tells a story, don't it." The more, the better.

Second, post the VIN.

Third, wheels are replaceable. Fuchs are cool but you can buy wheels if you need to.

Fourth, SC's didn't have airbags, so....

Fifth, Sport Seats are very desirable. Again, pix.

Sixth, For the love of God don't buy your first 911 sight unseen. For the tens of thousands you're sure to be spending, get on a flight with a good flashlight and camera and then take it for a drive.

Ask about the maintenance, records, engine rebuilds etc.

Good luck.

NYNick

[1979-930]

Kevin,

First, Do you like working on cars?
Yes; Have a budget above purchase because these cars are old.
No; Have a large budget above purchase because these cars are old.

First Engine; Have the head studs been replaced?

Second rust; Is there any?

Third suspension; Plan on new suspension even if it's low miles. The rubber is deteriorated and needs to be replaced.

Then there are the trim items that are old and you'll want to freshen up. Also wiring up-grades that should be done. Headlight relays, fuel pump relays, fuse for the dash lights, ect.

I bet every car from late 70's & early 80's needs $10,000.00 in work. These parts are expensive.

[MBAtarga]

Adding to what Nick suggests, don't let the seller recommend the PPI shop. Provide the car vicinity here to get recommendations for a shop - or do a search in the Tech section for shops.

[KMoore68]

Hi,

Thanks for the advice, I'll try to post pics when I get home. The VIN is 91A0141222

Kevin

[specialtyoneinc]

Pics and any history on the car will help allot. Golden rule is to buy the best Porsche you can afford. Also make sure not to rush into a deal.

[techweenie]

Originally Posted by Macroni

I would put up pictures and provide much more specific information such as vin and motor serial number. Based on what you posted I would be a hard pass for the following reasons.... Not local and no fuchs........ too much risk for a first Porsche........... it is better to spend more in the beginning then much much more in the end.....

Good advice.

As somebody once said 'the most expensive car you can buy is a cheap Porsche.'

[juanbenae]

you are correct in that does not look like a 79 vin# more like an 80 from my experience with my old 78. I'm surprised somebody has not cleared that up here yet.

the 78/79 models had an air pump included and not 02 sensor. the air pump is very obvious if in place to the left side of the motor. the air pump can be easily removed if smog testing is not required. an engine swap in the older cars is not uncommon for one reason or another. the 78/79 motor is preferred in many circles due to the larger head ports than the 80-83 3.oL motors.

if you live in a smog state any motor swap or missing emission equipment can be a real headache to get registered and test every couple years. buyer beware if you're in CA or CO to name just a couple states.