Last-modified: Wed Jul 26 18:42:25 PDT 1995 Version: 2.2 --------------------- Copyright 1995, Wade Guthrie. Permission is granted to copy and redistribute this document so long as it is unmodified and the copyright remains in-tact. --------------------- Note: I use a lot of names that are trademarks in this FAQ. At no time should the use of a trademarked name be construed as contesting the trademark. Those trademarks belong to their respective trademark holders. ========================================= Q0. What does this FAQ cover? A. Q1. What's a 911? Q2. Which 911 Should I Get? Q3. What are the classic problems / areas to check on 911s? Q4. So, what's wrong with the 2.7 liter 911s? Q5. What are the differences between the various 911s? Q6. Okay, so how do I tell the difference between them? Q7. But, Porsches are known for performance; how do the models differ? Q8. I want to buy a 911. For what should I look? Q9. What should the VIN or engine number look like for my car? Q10. Does anyone have a checklist for potential 911 buyers? ========================================= Q1. What's a 911? A. Yikes. Okay, in 1963 Porsche announced the 901, a car based on the venerable 356 model. The car was renamed 911 because Peugeot had a copyright on all 3-digit car model numbers with a zero in the middle. The 911 has gone on to become, arguably, the most popular car ever produced by Porsche. The 911 engine is an air cooled (or oil cooled) six cylinder opposed design. The cylinders bolt onto the crankcase such that displacement increases are often achieved by replacing the pistons and cylendars. The body of the car was designed by Ferdinand "Butzi" Porsche (Ferry's son) while the engine was designed by Ferdinand Piech (Dr. Porsche's nephew). ========================================= Q2. Which 911 Should I Get? A. The standard answer is "get the newest 911 you can afford". Unfortunately, it's more complicated than that. I had occasion to meet Joe Rusz, Senior Editor at Road & Track (gratuitous name dropping, here); his answer to this question was simply "if you can afford it, get one with Motronic Fuel Injection" (those'd be the ones built in 84 and after). You really have to decide for yourself what you want. Many feel that one exception to the 'newest you can afford' rule is the middle year cars (1973 through 1977) due to their short engine life span (circa 50K miles). Others (like myself) prefer the early mechanically injected cars (light and sparcely appointed with quick, torquey engines) over the newer 911SC (with their air conditioning, electric windows, and bullet-proof engine). Hopefully, the information in this document will help you decide. ========================================= Q3. What are the classic problems/areas to check on 911s? A. The 911 is a really good car but there are a few problem areas that have, at various times, plagued this particular vehicle. Here is a list of some of the most notorious problems. A1. RUST -- Rust can destroy a 911's unit-body and this can be really expensive (impossible?) to fix. Watch closely for rust, particularly with the pre-galvanized bodies (pre-1976?). Check the seams around and edges of the doors, trunk, and hood. Check the jack points and the torsion bar tubes. A2. CHAIN TENSIONERS -- The timing chain is held taught by chain tensioners. The early (pre-1984) timing chain tensioners tended to wear out and suddenly collapse causing your pistons to come in violent contact with your valves. This gets expensive. The 1984 and later cars used oil- fed tensioners which solved the problem. Many early 911 owners have had their older chain tensioners replaced with Carrera tensioners. This modification costs around $300-$400 plus labor. Adding carrera tensioners is extremely expensive on pre-1967 engines. Some have modified their tensioners by adding mechanical tensioner guards. These devices keep the tensioners from collapsing completely when they collapse. A3. EXPLODING CLUTCH -- The 911SC (1978-1983) used a rubber-centered clutch which would eventually fail and send rubber pieces sailing throughout that part of the transmission. These clutches should be replaced by a spring-centered one. A4. EXPLODING AIRBOX -- The 2.7 and 3.0 liter 911 cars use a $200 airbox that can, if the car backfires while starting, explode. For around $15, you can get a pop-off valve that is supposed to fix this problem. ========================================= Q4. So, what's all these problems I keep hearing about the 2.7 liter 911s? A. It's a tragic story. Porsche increased the displacement of the 2.4 without providing enough cooling and, to add insult to injury, the US models had thermal reactors (except for 1974) that got REALLY hot. The result is, among other things, head studs that pulled out of the crank case (due to thermal expansion of the cylinders) and destroyed valve trains. All of this resulted in an average engine life of about 50,000 miles (your mileage may vary -- HA! I was *waiting* to use that line). So the natural follow-on question (so natural, in fact, that I'm not breaking it out into its own question) is "can anything be done to mitigate the design flaws of the 2.7?" The answer is: - Have the case helicoiled or timeserted. These threaded inserts are installed in the crank case to hold the cylinder studs tightly and keep them from pulling. - Use Dilivar or Raceware studs. These studs won't pull out because they expand with temperature at the same rate as the cylendars. - Replace the 5-blade fan with an 11-blade fan. - Add an extra oil cooler. ========================================= Q5. What are the differences between the various 911s? A. There's *lots* of differences: First, there are numerous of body styles: Coupe 4 seats (well, 2 and a couple postage stamps) and a hard roof. You know. . . a COUPE Targa Like a coupe, but with a roll bar and a removable top. The earlier targas had soft rear windows, but the later ones had glass. Cabriolet A full-on convertible. Speedster A version of convertible, but with a short windshield and a fiberglass tonneau (the 356 speedster was different, but we're talking about 911s here). There are several trim and tune options: T, E, S The early years (the latest any of these were produced was 1977) cars in touring, injected and super (also fuel injected) states of tune. Carrera For the earlier cars, this was the quickest standard customer car. After 1983, the Carrera was the standard customer car. SC This was the standard car (there was also the turbo for some of theses years) between 1978 and 1983. H, N Rare models: Homologation (20 made in 1973) and a Euro model in 1976. L The one-year replacement for the 911S in the US. R, RS, RSR 911 in race trim. These cars are always rare and expensive. Turbo This one is, well, turbo charged. And, finally, there are the various changes over the different model years. Major Eras Include (the names are, partly, my own): - 1964-1968 short wheel base (SWB, 2211 mm to be exact). In contrast, the long wheel base (LWB) is 2268 mm long. - 1968-1973 early power. These 2.0, 2.2, and 2.4 liter 911s (my personal favorites) saw either mechanical fuel injection or carburetors (actually, in 73.5, the 911 T was electronically fuel injected). - 1974-1977 middle-year 911s. These cars had the 2.7 liter engines that had a notoriously short life span. This is the beginning of the crash bumpers (with the accordion sections at the edges) and K-Jetronic fuel injection. - 1978-1983 911SC. These 3.0 liter SCs are powerful, luxurious, and nearly bullet-proof. - 1984-1989 Motronic Carreras. Like the 911SC, but with a 3.2 liter engine and Motronic fuel injection. - 1989-1994 964 (original 911 Carrera 2/4). These cars have the one-piece, all body color bumpers and the engine cover that raises at 50 MPH to form a wing. - 1994-today 993 (today's 911) Note: Years given are model year. The model years start in August or September of the previous year (example 1972 model year starts in September of 1971). Much of the research for this document has been clouded by research materials not specifying whether they discussed calendar year or model year. More specific differences are given in table 1, below. ========================================= Q6. Okay, so how do I tell the difference between them? A. Well, you asked for it. . . -- Short Wheel Base 1964-1968 ------------------------------- 1968 and earlier cars have a shorter wheelbase than the 911s built in 1969 and after (recognition hint: the torsion bar tubes are right next to the SWB cars' rear wheel well -- there's a gap in the LWB cars). Other accoutrements of the SWB cars are: - glass lens covered headlights, - exterior door handles that opened via an exposed push-button (rather than the flying-buttress protection or trigger of later years), - no side marker reflectors, - Hella 128 fog lights mounted through the bottom half of the front bumper, - a vertical structural strip running under the rear engine grille, - sunroof models during these years had a drain slot above the rain gutter above the back side windows, And, in the interior: - chrome instrument bezels with green lettering, - ceiling-mounted rear-view mirror (1968 was as well, but it was break-away type) - a one piece under-dash knee guard, - pleated door pockets, and - push-buttons to open the doors from the inside. Until 1971, non-S models had silver painted slotted steel wheels; S models had Fuchs alloy wheels. 911s before the 1967 model year had the '911' designation diagonally across the lower right corner of the engine cover and the PORSCHE script in one piece (well, actually it was two pieces, but it looked like one) on the bottom. -- 1964 2.0 liter There were four 901 prototypes produced (serial numbers 13326, 13327, 13328, and 13330). Porsche went on to build 125 first year (1964) 901 cars. RECOGNITION TIPS: The 1964 cars have no rocker-panel trim and and no model designation on the engine lid or on the dash. Supporting clues are that 1966 and earlier 911s have wooden dash trim and open A-frame window cranks. OPTIONS: -- 1965 2.0 liter RECOGNITION TIPS: These cars look nearly identical to the 1966 cars. The things that separate these cars from the 1966s is in the interior. The 1965 cars have no wrap-around knee guard, aluminum backing on the wood dash trim, or rubber shift boot (I think they were leather). Both years are similar in that they have the rocker panel trim (this is not found on the 1964 cars), wooden dash trim, and open A-frame window cranks. OPTIONS: A four speed transmission became standard mid-model year. Sunroof, tinted windshield, enamel porsche crest on wheels, chrome plated steel wheels, gasoline heater (LHD models only), ambient temperature gauge, driver's side vanity mirror on sun visor, recaro or ferrari seats (actually, both are made by recaro), leather seats headrests -- 1966 2.0 liter Weber carbs replace Solex mid-model year. S model introduced mid- model year. Fuchs wheels introduced. Targa (with soft rear window) introduced. 911 introduced in US. RECOGNITION TIPS: These cars look nearly identical to the 1965 cars. The things that separate these cars from the 1966s is in the interior (see the 1965 description). Of course, if the car is an 'S' model, it has to be a 1966 or later. US models have all chrome vertical bumper guards (standard equipment) -- 911S bumper guards are all rubber. OPTIONS: sunroof, tinted windshield, enamel porsche crest on wheels, chrome plated steel wheels, gasoline heater (standard on S-models) (LHD models only), ambient temperature gauge, driver's side vanity mirror on sun visor, recaro or ferrari seats (actually, both are made by recaro) leather seats, headrests -- 1967 2.0 liter Only 4 prototypes and 19 'production' 911Rs were made. RECOGNITION TIPS: The window cranks on 1967 cars are of the covered A-frame type but had a hard plastic knob. US Models have chrome vertical bumper guards with a rubber strip (standard) -- 911S bumper guards are all rubber. The bases for the switches on the dash go from black to chrome and the dash is matte black (S model had basket weave vinyl). OPTIONS: Rear window wiper optional from this model year on (on Targas, too?), tinted windshield, rear-window defroster (vertical wires), sunroof, sportomatic (introduced in 1967), enamel porsche crest on steel wheels, chrome plated steel wheels, Fuchs alloys on non-S models, 100 liter fuel tank, gasoline heater (standard on S-models) (LHD models only), ambient temperature gauge, leather covered steering wheel (standard on S-models), driver's side vanity mirror on sun visor, leather seats, headrests, recaro sport seats (available in leather, vinyl, vinyl with with corduroy, or vinyl with hound's tooth inserts). -- Early Power 1968-1973 ----------------------------------- Side marker reflectors appear in 1968 (tacked-on side reflector) -- in 1969 and later, the reflectors are incorporated into the turn indicators. 1968 and later 911s have the model designation mounted horizontally centered on the engine cover (the hood?). The covered headlight is replaced with a rim bezel over a sealed beam headlight (US) or a lens covering bulbs (non-US). Inside, the window cranks are one-piece with a soft vinyl knob. The door pockets under the arm rests are vinyl-covered hard cardboard. 1969 is the first year of long wheelbase 911s; these came with flared fender arches; also, the targas come with glass rear windows. The 911s between 1969 and 1973 used a 2 battery system. From 1970 on, the doors opened via trigger-type door handles. The under-dash knee guard is a two-piece (with room for the ash tray in between) unit during this time period. 1969 and later, the rear-view mirror is mounted to the windshield. -- 1968 (A Model) 2.0 Liter A very few targas had glass rear windows at the end of the model year. RECOGNITION TIPS: Matte black wiper arms. US Models have chrome vertical bumper guards with a rubber strip (standard) -- 911S bumper guards are all rubber. S Models have chrome vertical bumper guards with a rubber strip. Knobs on the dash are now rubber covered. 1968 US models only, 911s had tacked-on rectangular side reflectors in front and back. Two-piece dash pad (1968 only). Matte black dash (S and L models had basket weave or elephant hide vinyl). Rear-view mirror is break-away and ceiling-mounted. OPTIONS: sunroof, Sportomatic transmission (1968-1971), tinted windshield, rear- window defroster (vertical wires), a chrome bar (optionally with leather rubber covering), connecting the top of the rear vertical bumper guards (where bumper guards exist), a 3-piece stainless steel muffler skirt (hanging below the rear of the car), enamel porsche crest on steel wheels, chrome plated steel wheels, Fuchs alloys on non-S models, 100 liter fuel tank, gasoline heater (LHD models only), ambient temperature gauge, leather covered steering wheel (standard on S-models), leather seats, headrests, recaro sport seats (available in leather, vinyl, vinyl with corduroy, or vinyl with hound's tooth inserts) are available on non-US cars. -- 1969 (B Model) 2.0 Liter All new forced air ventillation system. Heated rear window standard. Targa had glass rear window. 911T came in an normal and 'Lux' configurations. 911T has all chrome bumper guards (rubber strip is an option); 911E and S have all rubber bumper guards. After 1968, side marker reflectors were incorporated into the turn-signal indicator. RECOGNITION TIPS: First year of long wheelbase 911s; these came with flared fender arches. Dash was basket weave vinyl (1969-1971). If it's a LWB car with push- button outside door handles, it's a 1969. OPTIONS: Hydropneumatic struts on S model, Hella 169 fog lights (not available in US), sunroof, tinted windshield, Sportomatic transmission (1968-1971), aluminum wheel arch mouldings (E and S models), sportomatic, 5 speed (T and E models), rear-window defroster (horizontal wires), a chrome bar (optionally with leather rubber covering), connecting the top of the rear vertical bumper guards (where bumper guards exist), a 3-piece stainless steel muffler skirt (hanging below the rear of the car), 10-spoke cast magnesium wheel (on T model only), chrome plated steel wheels, 100 liter gas tank (non-US models only), gasoline heater (LHD models only), electric antenna, leather seats, headrests, vinyl and leather door coverings, vinyl or leather (or cloth?) sport seats, electric windows -- 1970 (C Model) 2.2 Liter Underfloor areas galvanized with PVC undercoat. 911T has all chrome bumper guards (rubber strip is an option); 911E and S have all rubber bumper guards. RECOGNITION TIPS: First year of trigger-type door handles. '2.2' sticker in the back window. Dash was basket weave vinyl (1969-1971). 1967-1970 glove boxes used a key lock which was mounted over the glove box, but offset toward the center of the car. OPTIONS: Hella 169 fog lights (not available in US), Limited slip differential optional, sunroof, Sportomatic transmission (1968-1971), tinted windshield, aluminum wheel arch mouldings (E and S models), rear-window defroster (horizontal wires), a chrome bar (optionally with leather rubber covering) connecting the top of the rear vertical bumper guards (where bumper guards exist), a 3-piece stainless steel muffler skirt (hanging below the rear of the car), 10-spoke cast magnesium wheel (on T model only), chrome plated steel wheels, 100 liter gas tank (non-US models only), gasoline heater (LHD models only), Bosch hydro-dynamic struts (on T and S models only), electric antenna, leather seats, headrests, vinyl and leather door coverings, vinyl or leather (or cloth?) sport seats, electric windows -- 1971 2.2 liter 911T has all chrome bumper guards (rubber strip is an option); 911E and S have all rubber bumper guards. RECOGNITION TIPS: Dash was basket weave vinyl (1969-1971). In 1971, the glove box lock was mounted in a twist knob that appeared centered over the glove box. OPTIONS: Hella 169 fog lights (not available in US), tinted windshield, Sportomatic transmission (1968-1971), heated windshield (this year only), sunroof, aluminum wheel arch mouldings (E and S models), rear-window defroster (horizontal wires), a 3-piece stainless steel muffler skirt (hanging below the rear of the car), 10-spoke cast magnesium wheel (on T model only), chrome plated steel wheels, gasoline heater (LHD models only), electric antenna, leather seats, headrests, vinyl and leather door coverings, vinyl or leather (or cloth?) sport seats (standard on S model), electric windows. -- 1972 2.4 liter Stroked to get 2.4 liters; compression lowered to run on regular gas. Dry oil sump made of stainless steel. The 901 transmission was replaced, starting in 1972, with the stronger 915 transmission. One result of this is that these cars now use the conventional H shift pattern (drat!). Silver painted slotted steel wheels standard on T model. Seat belts retract in US. RECOGNITION TIPS: Matte black engine grille, PORSCHE letters, seat recliner bars, and (on targa models) targa script. 1972-only had oil filler flap below right-side C-pillar. '2.4' badge on engine grille. Rectangular side mirrors. Dash was leather grain vinyl (1972-1973) with no model designation. OPTIONS: Front spoiler optional on T model, Sportomatic on E and T models, 5 speed on all cars in US and on T models in UK, Larger fuel tank (with space saver spare), 6Jx15 alloys, Hella 169 fog lights (not available in US or on E or S), tinted windshield, aluminum wheel arch mouldings (all models), rear-window defroster (horizontal wires), sunroof, a 3-piece stainless steel muffler skirt (hanging below the rear of the car), 10-spoke cast magnesium wheel (on T model only), gasoline heater (LHD models only), electric antenna, leather seats, headrests, vinyl or leather door coverings, vinyl or leather (or cloth?) sport seats, electric windows -- 1973 20 H (for Homologation) models were built. Carrera RS (1580 made) available in Sport and Touring versions. Better oil cooler, stronger main bearings. Large fuel tank standard (electric compressor provided for the little-bitty tire that fits around the fuel tank). Front air dam standard on all models. 911 T and E available in standard and Lux versions. Targa available mid-year in UK. Silver painted slotted steel wheels standard on T model. E model used cookie-cutter wheels as standard. Seat belts retract in US. RECOGNITION TIPS: Matte black engine grille, PORSCHE letters, and (on targa models) targa script; UK models had black horn grilles. Bumper guards on US models are made entirely of rubber. Rectangular side mirrors. Carrera had 'ducktail' rear wing. Dash was leather grain vinyl (1972-1973) with no model designation. OPTIONS: Fuchs alloys on T model, Hella 169 fog lights (not available in US or on E or S), sunroof, tinted windshield, aluminum wheel arch mouldings (all models except Carrera), rear-window defroster (horizontal wires), a 3-piece stainless steel muffler skirt (hanging below the rear of the car), gasoline heater (LHD models only), leather seats, headrests -- Middle Years 1974-1977 ----------------------------------- Shock absorber bumpers, seats have fixed headrest. Along with the fat bumpers, the trunk (front of the car) goes from curved-over to flat where it hits the bumper. The main-line cars all have 2.7 liter displacements with CIS fuel injection. -- 1974 (G Model) 2.7 liter Carrera available only in Coupe and Targa versions (no Sport, Touring, or Racing versions). RECOGNITION TIPS: Carrera 2.7 had 'ducktail' rear spoiler (but shock absorber bumpers). The bumper guards on US-model 1974 cars were only about 3.5 inches wide. Newer cars have 7 inch wide bumper guards. Note that the 1974 cars do *NOT* have thermal reactors (non-US cars never had them); these things generate a lot of heat and, therefore, heat-related problems. OPTIONS: 5-speed transmission (US -- this was standard in UK) or 4-speed Sportomatic -- 1975 2.7 liter There was a silver anniversary edition of the 911 with silver cloth in seats and doors and black leather trim. RECOGNITION TIPS: Black targa roll bar. OPTIONS: -- 1976 2.7 liter Carrera comes in regular and sport trim. Entire body covered in zinc for rust protection. 5-bladed engine fan (rather than 11). Five speed transmission standard in US and UK. RECOGNITION TIPS: External mirror painted body color. Headlight washer is of the stick-up variety between 1976 and 1979. OPTIONS: sportomatic transmission, Koni adjustable or Bilstein gas/oil shocks (S Model), external oil cooler, forged alloy wheels, sport seats, electric sunroof, electric windows, air conditioning -- 1977 Cars fitted with extra air pump, twin thermal reactors and exhaust recirculation. Improved gear box. RECOGNITION TIPS: Headlight washer is of the stick-up variety between 1976 and 1979. OPTIONS: sportomatic transmission, 5-speed transmission, center console -- 911SC and Later 1978 on ---------------------------------- The fenders were flaired more dramatically from 1978-on. The rear badge of the 1978-1983 cars had, of course, the '911SC' designation. Between 1984 and 1988, the badge on the engine lid indicated the then-current model name, "Carrera". From 1980-on, the headlight washers were mounted flush with the front bumper. The cabriolet body type was offered for the first time in 1983. -- 1978 5-speed standard. SC comes in standard and sport configurations. RECOGNITION TIPS: Headlight washer is of the stick-up variety between 1976 and 1979. OPTIONS: air conditioning, power windows, last year of the Sportomatic transmission -- 1979 SC horsepower increased mid-model year to 188. RECOGNITION TIPS: SC now has black window frames, electric windows. Headlight washer is of the stick-up variety between 1976 and 1979. OPTIONS: air conditioning -- 1980 SC now has air conditioning and electric windows standard. The 911SC Weissach edition was available in 1980. Flush-mount headlight washers start in 1980. RECOGNITION TIPS: OPTIONS: -- 1981 SC was given a higher compression ratio for 1981. The SC still comes in standard and sports configurations. RECOGNITION TIPS: Indicator side marking lights. OPTIONS: sports seats, berber cloth upholstery, leather upholstery -- 1982 RECOGNITION TIPS: OPTIONS: -- 1983 The Cabriolet was offered for the first time in 1983. This is the last year of the 911SC. RECOGNITION TIPS: OPTIONS: -- 1984 RECOGNITION TIPS: The easiest key is that the post 1983 cars had the name 'Carrera' on the engine lid rather than '911 SC'. These cars used the 'old' non-electric seats. Fog lamps in front spoiler. OPTIONS: air conditioning -- 1985 RECOGNITION TIPS: First year of the electric driver-side seat. OPTIONS: Electric passenger-side seat. -- 1986 More effective air flow due to redesign of the ventilation system. RECOGNITION TIPS: OPTIONS: -- 1987 New transmission with a hydraulic clutch is standard. RECOGNITION TIPS: The black "PORSCHE" script on the rear reflector is dropped this year in favor of clear script. Halogen headlights (rather than sealed beam) are now fitted on US cars. OPTIONS: -- 1988 959 available in sport and comfort trim. 911 Speedster . . 217n 195n . . RECOGNITION TIPS: OPTIONS: limited-slip differential (possibly turbo only), 16 inch wheels (possibly carrera only), alarm system (possibly carrera only), 7" wide front tires (carrera only), 8" wide rear tires (carrera only) -- 1989 RECOGNITION TIPS: Aside from the "Carrera 4" script on the back of the engine lid (the Carrera 2 came by in 1990), this is the first year of the new smooth, body- colored bumpers. This is also the first year for standard dual airbags and ABS. OPTIONS: -- 1990 RECOGNITION TIPS: OPTIONS: electrically adjustable seats -- 1991-1993 RECOGNITION TIPS: OPTIONS: -- 1994 993 (first year for ROW) RECOGNITION TIPS: This is the first year of the 993. This car stands-out with sloped headlights, a larger engine cover/movable rear wing, and a handle- like fixed wing (with integrated third brake light) over the back engine cover. OPTIONS: Available in Speedster configuration. -- 1995 993 (first year USA) RECOGNITION TIPS: OPTIONS: Tiptronic ----------------------------------------- Q7. But, Porsches are known for performance; how do the models differ in performance? A. Check this out. ** Note: 0-60 times are subject to the talents (and the desire not to damage the car) of the driver. For this reason, the times will vary from source to source. This table has used several different sources (some of which do not match). Don't take the 0-60 times too seriously. Table 1. 911 Models by Year and Type --+--------------+------+----+-------+----+---+----+--------------+----------- | |induc-|0 to| Horse | |top| | | Yr| Model/Disp |tion | 60 | power |trq |spd| wt | price | --+--------------+------+----+-------+----+---+----+--------------+----------- 64 911 2.0 Solex 8.3 130 120 130 2380 65 911 2.0 Solex 8.3 130 128 130 2380 2.5 7.9 16.0 66 911 2.0 carb 8.3 130 128 130 2207 2.5 7.9 16.0 66 911S 2.0 carb 8.0 160 132 140 2207 4.0 10.2 18.5 67 911 2.0 Weber 8.3 130 128 130 . 2.5 7.9 16 67 911S 2.0 Weber 8.0 160 132 140 2314 4.0 10.2 18.5 67 911R 2.0 Weber . 210 . . 1810 68 911 2.0 . 8.3 130 128 130 2207 3.7 6.2 10.0 68 911T 2.0 Weber . 110 113 124 2185 4.5 6.4 8.1 68 911L 2.0 . 10.6 130 128 131 2314 5.3 8.8 12.5 68 911E 2.0 MFI 8.4 130 128 131 2185 68 911S 2.0 (q) MFI 8.0 160 131 140 2132 4.0 10.2 18.5 69 911T 2.0 Weber 10.2 110 116 125 2250 3.5 7.8 16.0 69 911E 2.0 MFI 8.4 140 129 134 . 6.5 10.2 15.5 69 911S 2.0 MFI 8.0 170 134 170 2250 4.7 7.6 11.0 70 911T 2.2 carb 9.5x 125 130 127 2250 3.5 7.9 16.0 70 911E 2.2 MFI 7.6 155 141 137 . 6.0 9.0 15.0 70 911S 2.2 MFI 7.0x 180 147 138 2250 4.0 10.4 19.5 71 911T 2.2 (r) 9.5x 125 130 127 . 3.5 7.9 16.0 71 911E 2.2 MFI 7.6 155 141 137 . 6.0 9.0 15.0 71 911S 2.2 MFI 7.0x 180 147 138 . 4.0 10.4 19.5 71 911 racing MFI . 270 . . . 72 911T 2.4 (a) 9.5 130u 145u 127 . 3.0 9.1 24.5 72 911E 2.4 MFI 7.9x 165 152 138 . 4.0 9.8 22.0 72 911S 2.4 MFI 6.6x 190 159 144 . 6.2 17.6 28.5 72 911RSR 2.8 MFI . 275-308 . . . 73 911T 2.4 (b) 9.5 130u 148 127 2250 3.0 9.1 24.5 73 911E 2.4 MFI 7.9x 165 152 138 2303 4.0 9.8 22.0 73 911S 2.4 MFI 6.6x 190 159 144 2303 6.2 17.6 28.5 73 911H . . . . . 2112 73 Carrera 2.7 RS MFI 5.8x 210 187 143 2145 59.0 71.1 88.5 73 RSR 2.8 MFI . 308 . . 2145 73 RSR 3.0 MFI . 315-330 . . . --+--------------+------+----+-------+----+---+----+--------------+----------- | |induc-|0 to| Horse | |top| | | Yr| Model/Disp |tion | 60 | power |trq |spd| wt | price | --+--------------+------+----+-------+----+---+----+--------------+----------- 74 911 2.7 K-Jet 7.9 150 175 130 2303 4.8 11.1 19.9 74 911S 2.7 K-Jet 6.1 175 175 140 2303 4.4 10.7 20.0 74 Carrera 2.7 (c) 8.5 175c 175c 131 2303 10.0 17.7 49.5 74 RS 3.0 . . 230 201 . . 74 RSR uk 3.0 . . 315-330 . . . 74 RSR Turbo 2.1 . . 480 . . . 75 911 2.7 K-Jet 7.9 150 175 130 2303 4.8 11.1 19.9 75 911S 2.7 K-Jet 6.1 160d 166d 140 2303 4.4 10.7 20.0 75 Carrera 2.7 K-Jet 8.5 165e 166e 131 2303 8.5 16.1 22.9 75 930 3.0 . 5.8 260 253 152 . 76 911 2.7 k-jet 7.2 165 175 135 . 4.8 11.1 19.9 76 911N (q) . . . . . . 76 911S 2.7 k-jet 7.5A 165 175 144A 2470 4.4 10.7 20.0 76 Carrera 3.0 k-jet 6.1 200 188 140 . 76 930 3.0 . 5.8 245g 253 152 2630 16.5 20.4 29.6 76 934 3.0 (f) . 485-540 . 200 2464 76 935 2.8 . . 580 . . . 77 911 2.7 . 7.2 165 175 135 . 4.8 11.1 19.9 77 911S 2.7 . 7.5A 165 175 144A. 4.4 10.7 20.0 77 Carrera 3.0 . 6.1 200 188 140 . 12.0 13.7 15.9 77 930 3.0 . 5.8 245g 253 152 . 15.5 23.2 30.0 77 934 . . . . . . 77 935 2.8 . . 370-590 . . . 78 911SC 3.0 k-jet 7.0 180 175v 140 2560 8.5 13.5 23.5 78 930 3.3 . 5.6 265h 291h 155 . 16.9 22.3 29.5 78 935 2.86-3.2 . . 590-900 . 227 2255 78 936 2.1 MFI . 580 . . . 79 911SC 3.0 k-jet 7.0 180 175v 140 2560 8.0 13.9 20.0 79 930 3.3 . 5.6 265h 291h 155 2870 18.5 26.5 42.5 79 935 . . . . . . 79 936 2.1 MFI . 580 . . . 80 911SC 3.0 k-jet 7.0x 180 180v 140 2760 8.5 14.7 27.5 80 930 3.3 . . (j) 304 . . 21.9 23.4 24.9 80 935 3.2 . . 740 . . . 81 911SC 3.0 k-jet 7.0 180t 180t 140 2760 8.7 15.8 24.0 81 930 3.3 . . (j) 304 . 2860 19.3 24.5 27.8 81 935 3.2 . . 760 . . . 81 936 2.7 MFI . 600 . . . 82 911SC 3.0 k-jet 7.0 180t 180t 140 2760 10.0 16.5 23.0 82 930 3.3 . . (j) 304 . 2860 18.9 27.2 37.5 82 956 2.7 MFI . 620 . . . 83 911SC 3.0 k-jet 7.0 180t 180t 140 2760 10.0 17.1 30.0 83 930 3.3 . . (j) 304 . 2860 21.0 27.6 33.0 83 911 SC RS 3.0 . . 255 . . . 83 956 2.7 d-mot . 620 . . . --+--------------+------+----+-------+----+---+----+--------------+----------- | |induc-|0 to| Horse | |top| | | Yr| Model/Disp |tion | 60 | power |trq |spd| wt | price | --+--------------+------+----+-------+----+---+----+--------------+----------- 84 Carrera 3.2 mot 5.6 207k 192k 149 2760 21.0 25.2 30.0 84 930 3.3 (q) . . 300 . . 2860 22.5 30.5 43.5 84 911 SC RS . 5.0 . . 159 . 84 962 2.8 . . 650 . . . 85 Carrera 3.2 mot 5.6 207k 192k 149 2760 14.5 21.3 36.5 85 930 3.3 (q) . . 300 . . 2860 26.0 31.7 39.9 85 959 . . . . . . 85 962 3.2 . . 700 . . . 86 Carrera 3.2 mot 5.3 207k 192k 149 2760 14.3 22.5 34.0 86 930 3.3 . . 282m 287 . . 24.5 34.2 34.2 86 959 . . . . . . 86 961 . . . . . . 87 Carrera 3.2 mot 5.3 217n 195n 149 2670 16.9 25.5 45.9 87 930 3.3 . 5.4 286p 287 162 2940 27.0 36.6 48.9 87 959 . . . . . . 88 Carrera 3.2 LE-jet 5.3 217n 195n 149 2770 17.5 26.6 40.0 88 911 Club Sport . 5.3 217n 195n 154 2550 88 911 Turbo k-jet 5.0 282w 289w 155 3055 28.9 43.1 64.9 88 959 Sport 2.9 . . 450 . 197 . 89 Carrera 3.2 . 5.3 217n 195n 149 . 25.9 30.5 40.0 89 911 Club Sport . 5.3 217n 195n 154 2550 89 964 (C4) 3.6 . . 250 229 . . 29.0 34.9 43.5 89 911 Turbo k-jet 5.0 282w 289w 155 3055 39.0 50.9 65.0 90 964 (C2) 3.6 . 5.7 250 229 161 3031 28.0 35.9 52.0 90 964 (C4) 3.6 . 5.8 250 229 161 3320 30.0 37.7 50.0 90 Turbo 3.3 . 5.1 300 . 159 3055 91 964 (C2) 3.6 . 5.7 250 229 161 . 32.0 41.0 55.0 91 964 (C4) 3.6 . 5.8 250 229 161 3197 37.9 43.5 53.0 91 C2 Turbo . 5.0 320 . 168 3274 51.9 60.7 69.0 92 964 (C2) 3.6 . 5.7 250 229 161 3197 38.0 45.0 53.0 92 964 (C4) 3.6 . 5.8 250 229 161 . 43.0 46.8 55.8 92 RS America . . 250 229 . . 92 962 (C2) RS . . 260 240 . . 92 Turbo . 5.0 320 332 168 . 58.7 70.8 85.0 92 Turbo S . 4.6 381 361 180 . 93 964 (C2) 3.6 . 5.7 250 229 161 . 43.0 49.9 61.5 93 964 (C4) 3.6 . 5.8 250 229 161 . 48.9 51.9 55.0 93 RS America . . 250 229 . . 38.5 43.3 51.5 93 C2 Turbo . 4.8 360 384 175 . 94 993 (s) . 5.4 . . 168 . 94 930 3.6 . . . . . . 84.9 90.0 98.5 95 993 (C2) . 5.3 270 . 168 3065 53.7 61.0 69.3 95 993 (C4) . . 270 . . 3065 --+--------------+------+----+-------+----+---+----+--------------+----------- | |induc-|0 to| Horse | |top| | | Yr| Model/Disp |tion | 60 | power |trq |spd| wt | price | --+--------------+------+----+-------+----+---+----+--------------+----------- -------------------------- Key: carbureted (multiple or unknown types) Zen Zenith 40TIN Carburetors Web Weber 40 IDT Carburetors Sol Solex 40 PI Carburetors MFI Bosch Mechanical fuel injection k-jet Bosch K Jetronic fuel injection (same as CIS) mot Bosch Motronic fuel injection Model/Disp Model / Displacement (in Liters) 0 to 60 0 to 60 MPH in Seconds Horsepower Horsepower (DIN) trq Torque in Pounds Feet top spd Top speed in Miles per hour weight Weight in Pounds price 1995 asking prices in thousand US dollars (rounded off) taken from July 1995 and January 1995 issues of the Porsche Market Letter (thanks Phil!). Note: speedsters and cabrios were prices separately and will cost more than the prices shown. Check out the PML web page at: http://www.tta.com/Porschephiles/home.html Notes: a US models have MFI (w/140 HP); UK models have Solex or Zenith Carbs (w/130 HP) b Early models have MFI, 73 1/2 models have CIS. c 210 HP, 188 lb. ft. Torque in ROW, UK models have mfi; US models have ? d 49-state us models have 165 HP, California has 160, ROW has 175 HP; ROW has 175 lb. ft. of Torque. e 210 HP, 188 lb. ft. of Torque for ROW f k-jet (non-us) or mech (us) g 245 HP in US & Japan; 260 HP elsewhere h 265 HP in US and Japan, 300 HP elsewhere; 304 lb. ft. in ROW j Not available in US, 265 HP in Japan, 300 HP elsewhere k 207 HP in US and Japan, 231 HP elsewhere; 192 lb. ft. in US and Japan, 209 lb. ft. elsewhere. m 282 HP in US, 300 HP in ROW; 195 lb. ft. in US, 209 lb. ft. in ROW n 217 HP in US, 231 HP in ROW p 286 HP in US, 300 HP in ROW q European Model r Weber/Zenith s Rest Of World Model t 180 HP in US and Japan, 204 HP elsewhere; 195 lb. ft. Torque in ROW u 140 HP, 148 lb. ft. Torque in ROW v 195 lb. ft. Torque in ROW w 282 HP in US, 300 in ROW; 287 lb. ft. Torque in US, 319 lb. ft. in ROW x Time is a 0-62 MPH (0-100 KPH) A 0-60 is 7.5 seconds for US version, 6.1 for ROW. Top speed is 144 MPH for US version 142 for ROW. ========================================= Q8. I want to buy a 911. How should I go about it? A. There's lots of stuff. DECIDE WHY YOU WANT THE CAR. Decide whether you want an old show car, a race car, a daily driver, or whatever. This should help you settle on which types of 911 are best for you. HOMEWORK. Get some books and research the different cars (check out the references at the end of this FAQ). When it comes to information, some is good, more is better, and too much is just enough. Figure out which years, models, and features of 911 are in your list. Once you decide on a car type, find out what can go wrong with them and how much it can cost to fix them. PRICES. Check out the usual sources for prices and availability: - The "Porsche Market Letter", (619) 727-4856, 1 yr subscription $55 - Panorama (the newsletter to the Porsche Club of America), - The "Auto Trader", (800) 845-9612. Some regions also have the "Sports Car Trader". - "Hemmings Motor News", (800) CAR-HERE - The "Recycler", - The local newspaper, - The "Penny Saver", - Porsche Swap Meets. Shop for insurance at this point. You don't want to find your dream car and find out you can't afford to insure it. Insurance companies vary drastically (as do the costs for the different years and models). Check out financing. If you want an older 911, you may have some trouble getting a loan. Used car loans usually only apply to cars with a value listed in the Kelly Blue Book (those that deal with older cars usually do so based on a rediculously low estimate of the value of the car). If you don't have extra dollars hanging around, you may have to get an unsecured loan (at a higher interest rate). FIND A MECHANIC. Especially if you are able to look for a car close-to-home, find a mechanic before you start looking. Ask friends who their mechanics are and talk to PCA and POC personnel. Talk to your mechanic (and other knowledgeable people) about what you should be looking for in a car. LOOK FOR A CAR. Now that you know the car (and price range) for which you are looking, start your search. Take lots of information including VIN, etc. CHECK-OUT THE CAR. If the car is long distance, you may have the owner take it to a mechanic first. I tend to like to use Porsche dealers for long distance check-outs. Dealers may be more expensive but they should know their stuff. If the car is nearby, check-out the car in person first. Look for features, rust, and general condition. Test drive your car: does it start easily, does it accelerate with no flat spots, does it go into all gears easily? TAKE THE CAR TO A MECHANIC. Have the mechanic do a compression check and a leakdown. Have him make sure the engine numbers match the VIN. He should be able to itemize everything you need to put the car into street concourse condition (even if you don't want to show the car, this will give you an idea of everything the car needs). The list should help you decide whether you want this car and, if so, the price range for the car. CHECKLIST. Check out the following checklist for some ideas of stuff for which to look. BUY THE CAR. Join the PCA / POC. Enjoy your car. ========================================= Q9 What should the VIN or engine number look like for my car? A. Well, I'm not going to go into that here 'cause it's long and there are so many other books that do it completely. For VINs, check out Bruce Anderson's "Porsche 911 Performance Handbook" or "Guide to Purchase & DIY Restoration of the Porsche 911". For both VINs and engine numbers, consult Brett Johnson's Restorer's guides or "The Used 911 Story" (for US cars only). ========================================= Q10. Does anyone have a checklist for potential 911 buyers? A. Here it is. . . NAME/ADDRESS/PHONE . Car _________________________________ . . Price _______________________________ . DATE: == PHONE ===================================================================== VIN ____________________ Miles ___________________________ How Long Owned __________________ How Many Owners ____________________ Records _________________________ Where maintained ___________________ Color ___________________________ Last Paint Job _____________________ Interior Color___________________ Wheel sizes _________ Tire sizes _________ [ ] Original Color [ ] Original Engine [ ] 5 speed manual Induction ____________ [ ] Air Conditioning [ ] Alarm Radio ________________ [ ] Large Fuel Tank [ ] Gasoline Heater [ ] Electric Windows [ ] Electric Antenna Why Selling, Notes: == RECEIPTS ================================================================== [ ] Carrera Tens'ners Last Overhaul ____________ [ ] Rebuilt Inj'n pump (mfi) [ ] Shuffle Pin (f) [ ] Dilivar Studs (f) [ ] Timeserts (f) Compression 1:____ 2:____ 3:____ 4:____ 5:____ 6:____ == LONG DISTANCE ============================================================= Have the owner send receipts and pictures. If you can, have the owner send a videotape. The tape should cover the following: - Walk around the car, SLOWLY - Get closes-up (check for rust & mating) of: headlights, door seams (door closed), hood, trunk, fuel filler, - Get under-car shots including: suspension pickups (front and rear), jack receiver area, and tortion bar tubes (under car). - Interior shots (take-off targa top, if applicable). Get: front seat, rear seat, dash, instruments, console (if applicable) carpeting - Engine compartment - Trunk area (lift carpet around batteries). Have owner take the car to a mechanic. Maybe have owner take the car to a body shop (check for rust). Check seams for evenness and for rust (portal closed) [ ] left door [ ] right door [ ] fuel filler flap [ ] hood (mating) [ ] trunk Check for rust (under car): [ ] left jack receiver [ ] right jack receiver [ ] front suspension [ ] rear suspension [ ] headlights [ ] tail lights [ ] under windshield [ ] trunk area (lift carpet around batteries) Interior (take-off targa top, if applicable) [ ] front seats [ ] rear seats [ ] dash [ ] carpeting (RECEIPTS, MECHANIC) == INSPECTION (bring magnet, ice pick, flashlight) =========================== Name ____________________ Phone ____________________ Car ___________________ GENERAL A B C D F Paint, chrome, trim A B C D F Rubber A B C D F Dents/Dings A B C D F Undercoat all around (e) LEFT SIDE DOOR: VIN Drivers door jamb (post '69) ____________________ A B C D F Mating A B C D F Edge, bottom (r) A B C D F Hinge A B C D F Strike Plate (r) A B C D F Jack receiver (r) A B C D F Underside rocker panel (r) A B C D F Side windows & seals A B C D F Body under windshield (r) TOP A B C D F Targa top seal A B C D F Targa top condition LEFT FRONT FENDER: VIN Windshield post (post '69) ____________________ A B C D F Tire condition A B C D F Fender Lip Texture (a) A B C D F Fuel filler (r) TRUNK: VIN (post '73) ____________________ A B C D F Headlights (pull out, rust & bracket squareness) A B C D F Cross-member in front of gas tank (been beaten flat?) A B C D F Suspension pickups under car L&R (r) A B C D F trunk lid: fit (r) A B C D F trunk lid stop (r) A B C D F Battery Box (r) A B C D F Front bumper - fit A B C D F Spare tire A B C D F Jack and toolkit RIGHT FRONT FENDER A B C D F Tire condition A B C D F Fender Lip Texture (a) RIGHT SIDE DOOR A B C D F Mating A B C D F Edge, bottom (r) A B C D F Hinge A B C D F Strike Plate (r) A B C D F Jack receiver (r) A B C D F Underside rocker panel (r) A B C D F Side windows & seals A B C D F Body under windshield (r) RIGHT REAR FENDER A B C D F Tire condition A B C D F Sight along body (accident) A B C D F Suspension Pickups (d) A B C D F Texture on fender lip (a) A B C D F Pinch Welds (g) ENGINE LID / COMPARTMENT: VIN Under hood (pre '74) ____________________ Engine number (vertical fan housing) ____________________ A B C D F General condition A B C D F Belts A B C D F Oil leaks A B C D F Transmission fluid leaks A B C D F Exhaust system A B C D F Rear Valence (accident) A B C D F Tail & parking lights A B C D F Brake lights, signals A B C D F Backup lights A B C D F Seams/Fit (accident) LEFT REAR FENDER A B C D F Tire condition A B C D F Sight along body (c) A B C D F Suspension Pickup (d) A B C D F Texture on fender lip (a) A B C D F Pinch Welds (g) INTERIOR: [ ] Leather [ ] Sport seats [ ] Head Rests A B C D F Front Seats A B C D F Rear Seats A B C D F Carpeting A B C D F Floor pan/pedals (r) A B C D F Air Condonditioner A B C D F headliner A B C D F Dashboard A B C D F Seat adjustment (L&R) == TEST DRIVE ================================================================ A B C D F Starting A B C D F Acceleration A B C D F Braking A B C D F Alignment A B C D F Steering 2 3 4 5 Synchros A B C D F Clutch pedal free play A B C D F Brake Pedal Firmness A B C D F Clutch slippage A B C D F Idle (fluctuations) A B C D F Valve sounds A B C D F Clutch chatter A B C D F Other strange sounds A B C D F Blip throttle (miss=inj'n, _________ Oil pressure (warm) smoke=valve guides) == MECHANIC ================================================================== Name ____________________ Phone ____________________ Car ________________ Mechanic ________________ Phone ____________________ Everything required to bring the car to street-concours, itemized and costed 1:____ 2:____ 3:____ 4:____ 5:____ 6:____ compression (130-170 +- 15%) 1:____ 2:____ 3:____ 4:____ 5:____ 6:____ leakdown (< 3-5%, 10% max) [ ] Numbers Match [ ] Engine number match [ ] Worn Valve Guides [ ] Carrera Chain Tensioners [ ] Spring Centered Clutch (b) A B C D F Tie rod ends A B C D F CV joints A B C D F Ball Joints A B C D F Bushings A B C D F Shock absorbers/struts A B C D F Brake lines A B C D F Structural Rust A B C D F Cosmetic Rust A B C D F Front susp. attachment A B C D F Rear susp. attachment A B C D F Torsion bar tubes (F&R) A B C D F Lower control arms (F&R) A B C D F Floor pan-(F&R) A B C D F Floor pan-battery area -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Resolution: VINs / Engine No. Match Rust Accidents Mechanical Condition (a) since 1969 (b) 911SC only (c) check for accident damage (d) The rear suspention pickups are bolted to the pan under the car roughly aligned with the torsion bar tubes -- check for rust. (e) Fresh undercoat is bad. If you see it, check to see what mischief it covers. (f) These are not required if the car isn't a 2.7 liter or heavily built-up car. (g) Make sure the pinch welds aren't bulging or separating. (r) check for rust ========================================= References: "Porsche 911 Performance Handbook", Bruce Anderson, Motorbooks International, 1987 "Guide to Purchase & DIY Restoration of the Porsche 911", Porter and Morgan, Haynes Publishing, 1988 "The 911 and 912 Porsche, a Restorer's Guide to Authenticity", Dr. Brett Johnson, Beeman Jorgensen, Inc., 1988, 1991 "Original Porsche 911", Peter Morgan (et.al.), Bay View Books, 1995 "Illustrated Porsche Buyer's Guide, 2nd Edition", Dean Batchelor, Motorbooks International, 1983, 1986 "Road & Track Porsche", CBS Magazines, 1988 "Road & Track Porsche", CBS Magazines, 1990 "New For '95", Road & Track, October 1994, Hachettte Filpacchi Magazines, Inc, 1990 Miscellaneous Articles, lance_keigwin@engtwomac.Synoptics.COM, mpardo@itsa.ucsf.EDU, "911 #1", Excellence, November 1994, Don Hollway "The Used 911 Story", Peter Zimmerman, PMZ Publications, 1993 -- Wade Guthrie | "If you fold 'em, they fire ya, so I just throw wade@realm.net | 'em away" from 'The Hudsucker Proxy' http://www.realm.net/~wade |