I see.. So below 98 they were oil cooled? So tell me this, (i knew at least ONE of you would own a 911 lol) how are they in terms of power. Do they stack up to a TR, with the boost turned up? What are their operating temps, and how do they handle the road? How do they compare to say, an E36? (which is what I used to dd)
I've been looking at one for a long time, but was told by the local porsche mechanic, that maintenance is just horrifying on them. So I said screw it.
Tell me about 'em...
I sold mine in 2007. It was a sad day. It was an excellent example of that model. Here's some more photos....
1981 911 SC Coupe - Pelican Parts Technical BBS
I can only speak of my car which was a 1981 euro version. It had about 18 more ponies than comparable model built for the US. 204hp vs 186hp.
It wasn't built for drag racing. While the power to weight ratio is very good, the sluggish long throw gearboxes don't favor slamming gears. The independent rear also isn't designed for burning rubber. A stock GN could beat a stock 911 in a straight line. Now a 930, a 911 with a turbo, can run some decent numbers with about 350hp.
Turning, there isn't a better design if you keep the rear loaded. Turn and brake and you have the "hammer effect". The heavy ass can pass you!
They can get expensive if you need serious engine work as the cylinders are replaced rather than bored. The 3.0L flat six is considered bulletproof and easily revs to 7.5K. The harder you drive the more responsive and easier to shift. The car is factory built for the track, but makes a fine street car. Unlike a Corvette, which is a street car, but makes a fine track car.
From 1978 to 1989, all the body panels were interchangable. The motors went from 3.0 in '78, to 3.2 in '84, to 3.6 in '88.
I wouldn't hesitate to buy another if the right car came around. Like other models there are good ones and not so good ones. A PPI is always recommended by a good Porsche garage.
Porsche 911 Technical Forum - Pelican Parts Technical BBS
The Pelican Parts 911 forums are incredibly informative if you want to talk or search for info. Made the learning curve much shorter. For instance, who knew you check the engine oil level with the car running and at temp. Pretty much the opposite of way everyone was taught.
I still hang there and I'm Porscheless. Come to think of it, I'm hanging here and I'm Buickless now too. When the job goes away, so does the toys.