1981 Porsche 911 SC Targa review from North America
"Unmatched by newer rivals, the older 911's are pure performance classics -- they are raw & visceral."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Not much has gone wrong with the vehicle.
The previous owner spent a considerable sum to keep the car in good shape.
Clutch replaced at about 110,000 miles, Carrera chain tensioners installed early in the car's history, broken head studs were replaced at about 110,000 miles, all else was routine and typical.
General comments?
The car was quick and handled rather well.
However, it is a 20 year old Targa (summer car exclusively) and I wanted it to handle even better.
The air conditioning, heating system, radio, speakers, antenna, sound proofing, rear seats, catalytic converter, bumpers and other components were removed.
Fiberglass bumpers (about 10 pounds total), test pipe (catalyst by-pass pipe), sport exhaust, pop-off valve in the airbox, and various odds and ends were added.
The car was lowered to Euro-spec standards, urethane bushings, turbo tie rods, and strut brace installed.
Brake calipers rebuilt, cross-drilled rotors, stainless brake lines, Pagid pads installed.
Now the car rides a lot stiffer and handles incredibly.
Recommended reviews
| Air cooled 911's are the epitome of automibilia |
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| It is a very well engineered car to last so long. |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1981 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 flat six Manual |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 123000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 130000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Jetta |
| Date of Entry | 12th May, 2002 |