Dear God, what have I done. Owning a 911 Turbo. Pt.2

Kinja'd!!! "16volt" (thecrashingdoor)
08/05/2014 at 15:22 • Filed to: Porsche 911, Porsche Turbo, Oh noes

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(Originally written 1/10/2014)

Day Three (180miles)

On day three of 930 ownership I have to admit to a mild case of postpartum depression. I knew this feeling would come as I noted more things about the paint that annoy me and I grieve for my prior debt free status. I remind myself that I bought the best condition car I could afford and that in the big picture this car was still a deal. When that failed to ease my mind I simply put down the magnifying glass, shut the lights off and walked out of the garage waited 30 seconds and re-opened the garage door. Yep, there is a still a Porsche 930 sitting my garage, and that in of itself does not suck. Akin to realizing that the supermodel in your bed farts in her sleep and never refills the toilet paper roll. Is it really that big of a deal?

Its occurred to me that I have not had my head stuck in the engine bay of a car this much since owning my MK2 Scirocco, while all together not an entirely bad thing. When I finally got home Wednesday I checked the oil a few more times (yes, probably a bit paranoid) after learning that the common consensus is to treat the instructions in the manual as a loose guideline when it comes to "cold" levels . I am now only checking it when the engine is fully up to temperature (first hash on the temp gauge). Oil level is smack in the middle of the min/max marks on the dipstick. The manual suggests it should be near the max mark but I was warned about overfilling more than running low.

I also checked the tire pressures Wednesday night and discovered some of the root cause for the harsh ride. The rear tires were at 59psi, drivers side front was 32psi and pass was 21psi. I figured it was time to open the hood and check out that nifty Porsche tire pump and start the emergency kit building.

Pull hood release…hmm, nothing. Pull a little harder….nothing. Consult the manual to identify which orientation of the lock cylinder would indicate that I am making a fool of myself. Every indication suggests its unlocked. Pull a little harder….then a quick flashback to what a snapped hood release cable feels like, I decide to stop. After a quick ponder on whether it was possible that in the first 24hrs of ownership that I had been deemed unworthy by the Porsche gods via the dipstick adventure and now this I decide to give it one more shot. Yank hard, pop, the hood comes open with the hood release still intact, bonus! Thank you Deutschland. Added lubricate/replace hood release cable to the fix-it list.

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The stock Porsche air compressor (which is for some odd reason coveted among owners) was not there, in its place was a random cheap pump. No problem, well until I went to plug it in that is….no cigarette plug, just two bare wires. Confidently I went to emergency kit in the BMW and grabbed its compressor and plugged it into the cigarette jack…..no beuno. It was clear then why the cigarette lighter plug end had been removed. Plugged into the BMW and set all the tires are at 32psi. Additionally I sacrificed a CTEK trickle charger set of battery clamps to enable the pump that came with the car to be operated by a single person with 100% less sparking!

Also in the trunk (frunk?) I found a set of BBS wheel wrenches, adjustable hood prop, jumper cables, factory tool kit and what appears to be a brand new battery. I bagged up all the stuff and started building the emergency kit. I can says with 60% confidence I am now 80% more prepared.

That brings us to day four of daily driving a 930 by choice. Thus far the most surprising aspect of 930 ownership (besides the frankly alarming rate it can build speed) is how easy it is to just jump in and drive. Having driven a few hero cars of the 60s/70s/80s one always seems left with the question of "could I actually drive this thing on a whim and not immediately regret it?". Honestly this is what drew me to the 930 say over something rarer in same price range (F-car 308/328/400i, etc). I really had to have something very "accessible", I did not want something which was great in the garage and crap on the street. The Porsche 915 4spd continues to be excellent to the point where I feel like there is something seriously wrong with the 5spd box in the E24. Granted it has 140K more miles than the 930 but its a complete PITA by comparison. The 930 has plenty of usable torque off boost once warm and is exceedingly smooth and easy to putter along in traffic. When its cold it exhibits all the cranky CIS problems that I am used to from the VW world, nothing which isn't resolved once a little heat is in the motor.

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Another note which comes as a surprise. There are no oil drips on my garage floor. You heard that right, a 911 with oil in it that is not marking its territory. I spent about $3K sealing up the BMW to perform this same feat. Pretty cool 911, pretty cool. I am also starting to see some systems "come back to life". When I picked the car up the dome lights were completely inoperable, they seem to work flawlessly now. Additionally with no intervention on my part my windshield fogging problem seems have vanished as well. Seat heaters which would not work now get hot enough to feel like you have a sunburn (they may perhaps be still broken). I fell allot of this is due to the car being in a heated garage at night and a parking garage during the day but hey, whatever the reason I will take it.

To close out on the subject of fixes. We had some dry weather today (as dry as it ever gets here in Jan) so I was able to explore the car a bit more. I feel that there is likely a spark or fueling issue at WOT, which is strange because the test drive was fine and the car was perfect. Nothing surfaced during the PPI either. At 80% throttle it absolutely rips, but at WOT it struggles and if you stay in it you will get a complete cut out around 4k rpm. I figured better safe than sorry and swung by John Walkers Porsche Workshop and got his opinion which was that as the PPI said a tuneup was in order. He wasn't interested in bench racing the problem beyond checking the overboost circuit. I agreed with the approach, I need to get the car at good maintenance baseline so an appointment was made. In addition to the tune up he is going to check the right rear caliper for dragging and diagnose the e-brake light not shutting off. I also will have him pull the header and fix the exhaust leak, I am going to explore option on replacing the headers should the exhaust in the cabin not change after the leak is fixed. What others have mentioned about crack in the header tubing inside the heater boxes sounds entirely plausible, I'm really hoping its not the case however. I really enjoy how the B&B unit sounds and looks.

And there you have it, four days with a 930. Lesson learned? Shes a supermodel you idiot. Just blame it on the dog and move on with life.

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DISCUSSION (100)


Kinja'd!!! Saracen > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 14:53

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mmm, 930 Turbo. Where did you obtain it?


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Saracen
08/05/2014 at 14:54

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After searching for nearly a year and almost flying across the country to buy one....I found it on Craigslist. One mile from my house.


Kinja'd!!! Saracen > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 14:55

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Yep, that's why I always look at my local craigslist first!


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Saracen
08/05/2014 at 14:58

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Oh trust me, I had. I was actually removing my RSS search feeds for 930s as I had given up being able to find one (one which I could also afford). Serendipity, maybe. Good luck, the jury is still out.


Kinja'd!!! thebigbossyboss > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 15:06

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Nice. Someday I hope to buy my girlfriend a porsche like this. That would be amazing.


Kinja'd!!! I hoon, therefore I am > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 15:41

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Simply glorious!

Funny thing about the E24 shifter... it's quite sloppy, even worse when bushings are shot. Below is a quick video I made when those in my 6er went out on me. Even after replacing everything, I sometimes can't tell whether I'm in gear or neutral, and have in fact put it in reverse a time or two when searching for first.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > I hoon, therefore I am
08/05/2014 at 15:46

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My 6er shifter actually has had all the bushes replaced and has the Z3 short shift installed. Most of the shifting issues I have revolve around the Z3 unit, its just way "tight".


Kinja'd!!! RallyWrench > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 16:09

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Congrats on owning one of my dream cars! FWIW, the oil level should be right between the min & max readings on the dipstick and on the oil level gauge, with the engine idling at operating temp.


Kinja'd!!! davesaddiction @ opposite-lock.com > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 16:12

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Ha! Fantastic.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > RallyWrench
08/05/2014 at 17:07

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Yes, checking the oil has after 8 months become old hat. The actual gauge can be trusted enough to give a ballpark of the actual level. Granted as you said, when warm/while idling.


Kinja'd!!! The-Ever-Socially-Apathetic TBAL > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:13

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I once dated an international runway model who spoke in Cantonese (her native language) and farted, burped and snored in her sleep.

They're not all perfect, but with the things they are good at... Man are they ever good at it.

Oddly though, I doubt that owning a 930 Turbo requires even half as much maintenance as dating a model.


Kinja'd!!! Cheesewhiz > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:13

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Don't ever sell it. Your grandchildren's children will go to college on that thing's future value.


Kinja'd!!! qoncept > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:14

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My 944 was like living with a model from a hair color box. But she's completely worn out.


Kinja'd!!! Fauxe > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:14

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my 944 ownership was worse than this 911. Took me 6 months to get it up to scratch :D


Kinja'd!!! Le Monstre > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:16

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Black - check

Whale Tail - check

930 Turbo - check

An erection that may last more then 4 hours, so I must go consult my doctor - check


Kinja'd!!! texturbo88 > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:16

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"In addition to the tune up he is going to check the right rear caliper for dragging and diagnose the e-brake light not shutting off. "

5 internet points bet that it was low brake fluid!


Kinja'd!!! Evan, Pope Of Jalopnik by Self-Appointment > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:18

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So far sounds wonderful. I am extremely jealous.


Kinja'd!!! abgwin > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:18

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I believe I know exactly how you feel. This lovely stray cat followed me home this weekend:

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Kinja'd!!! yung bramblepelt > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:20

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Wow, no effing way. That's awesome man. Congratulations, keep living the dream!


Kinja'd!!! 2 Wheels awesome! > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:24

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Couldn't have come at a better time... I've been eyeing 911s for awhile... thinking of trading some of collection in for nice used (probably water cooled) 911....


Kinja'd!!! DocWalt > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:27

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Dude, I've been loving your thread over on TCL! Really making me jealous :)


Kinja'd!!! Adam144 > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:30

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Good to see you've got a slot blogging, always enjoy reading your thread on TCL. (CousinEddie).


Kinja'd!!! Art > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:33

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How much did you pay for it? That's what I want to know. I been looking at 911s and its cheaper to buy slightly used 2007 911 Turbo than an older model model with the exception of the cracked egg headlight model model which you can almost buy for free.


Kinja'd!!! bobrayner > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:33

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She is beautiful. I hope you're very happy together. She will probably break your heart, but you'll still be happy.


Kinja'd!!! Paullubbock > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:33

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I'm not sure how much you paid but the 80's air cooled Turbo but they are currently the more prized, meaning high dollar, models to be had. I had a similar experience but since I can't afford a prized model I went with the younger and possibly overly breast enhanced super model edition. I was originally shopping for a Cayman S but ended up buying a 996 6spd C4, cabriolet in arctic silver. I really didn't care for a cab, which is why I have put the hard top on it but I loved the idea of all-wheel drive, 6spd, and silver is my favorite shade of Porsche and the price was right. Its new enough, I haven't had any lights on or issues and everything seems to work great and has lots of factory options. The paperwork listed the original options plus base at $93,740+. The only light that has come on is the roof light after I put the hard top on so maybe I didn't do something right. Good luck and enjoy.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > abgwin
08/05/2014 at 17:34

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I am legally restricted from searching Craigslist for V12 Jaguars as a condition of my release.


Kinja'd!!! LOFTIN914 > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:35

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Front needs a lower stance. Very easy to do and a alignment afterwards.


Kinja'd!!! Mr. Ligier 812 GTC4Lusso Rubicon Pista > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:35

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Very nice car. Been looking for one myself, but in perfect condition as a weekend show toy (have a 991 Turbo for actual commuting)


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > DocWalt
08/05/2014 at 17:37

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Thanks Doc!


Kinja'd!!! Keith Moon > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:38

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All cars could kill you, but very few actively try to murder you every time you are behind the wheel, like the 930

:P


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > texturbo88
08/05/2014 at 17:38

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I actually used logic and checked the fluid level myself (which is surprising) and its full. My money is on a bad pad level sensor.


Kinja'd!!! Quade > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:40

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E36 M3's from 96-98 have a problem like that. The tranny's have detents that re-center the shifter when in neutral. If the bushings that hold the detents wear (which they do in that year range). Shifting becomes exceptionally vague to the point where I nearly money-shifted 4-5 times on track (you get used to letting the clutch out slowly). The fix is to remove the tranny and replace the bushings. It can be done without cracking the tranny open.

I'd already replaced all the shifter bushings and they made no difference. Look up E36 "5th gear lean" if you want to read about it. BMW has a repair kit for it. Once I replaced the detent bushings it was a night and day difference.


Kinja'd!!! Roadster Man > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:42

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That is SUPER COOL. You just gotta laugh when you find your dream car so close to home after so much searching!


Kinja'd!!! ejp > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:43

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I liked reading your article.

You don't have to go nuts with the oil level in these cars. Since they're dry sump cars, as long as there's a few quarts in the sump (within reason), it should always have enough to keep the oil pan full. Being a quart low in the sump should only result in slightly reduced cooling. I did worry about this during the first few months of ownership until I realized that my oil level gauge was somehow perfectly calibrated with the dipstick (which both only work when the engine is hot, idling, and on level ground). Anyway, the oil pressure and temp gauges are the ones to watch in these cars, IMO.

With regard to the 4-speed transmission...the 5-speed in the '89 hardly seems necessary given that 2nd gear is good for (IIRC) 90 MPH. The G50 is a mixed bag anyway - faster shifting but more weight...and the hydraulic clutch is a bitch to bleed.

I didn't see anything about the status of the AC in your car. It appears to have a shiny compressor that is still connected to a belt under some sort of tension...but that means very little in these cars (which had crappy-when-new AC). Are you in an area where AC is a necessary thing? I'm still mulling over investing a small fortune in a Griffiths kit to make cold air blow out of the vents.


Kinja'd!!! stevethecurse > abgwin
08/05/2014 at 17:44

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Part of me is jealous and the other part of me is shaking my head saying "you poor, poor bastard." Very nice car.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Paullubbock
08/05/2014 at 17:45

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Its a pretty safe bet I paid more than your 996, the market is crazy for 80's 911s. Had I waited even a month there would have been no way for me to afford a 930 given how quick the values rose. For perspective, this car cost twice what it would have cost a year ago when I began looking.

That being said there is a ton of value to be had with a 996. Say what you want about its looks, watercooling, IMS yadda yadda yadda. Show me something else that does what it does for that little money. Ill be the first to admit I never thought I would say this but a well sorted 996 is great buy right now.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Adam144
08/05/2014 at 17:47

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Thanks man.


Kinja'd!!! stoke > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:53

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Those wheels are bloody magnificent.


Kinja'd!!! TeamProBono > Le Monstre
08/05/2014 at 17:55

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That really is the whole checklist. Drive it a lot and may it be completely reliable. Do not drive it in Virginia. They'd probably confiscate it for being one of them "furen jobs."


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > ejp
08/05/2014 at 17:57

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Thanks for the kind words.

I am little less edgy about oil level these days but I do check it every other drive. I am now running the elephant lines which gives me a little more capacity.

Yeah, I just love a 4spd, it makes getting around town that much more exciting.

The AC in my car is a mystery, it is indeed present but after turning it on once and getting nothing I put it into the same category as you detailed re: 80s cars. Its simply there or not. I am in Seattle so I want A/C for about 40 days a year.

There is a fellow 930 owner selling the full meal deal Griffiths kit for not allot of money (compared to retail) on Pelican right now. If your interested I could hunt up the thread. Legit guy and legit setup.


Kinja'd!!! Cyrus > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 17:59

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Kinja'd!!! Mr Ordinary > abgwin
08/05/2014 at 18:05

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Very nice!


Kinja'd!!! Manwich - now Keto-Friendly > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:06

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"On day three of 930 ownership I have to admit to a mild case of post pardom depression."

It's postpartum depression. And you wouldn't have that now. You would have it after you got rid of the car.

What you have right now sounds more like Buyers Remorse.

"Akin to realizing that the supermodel in your bed farts in her sleep and never refills the toilet paper roll. Is it really that big of a deal?"

It's only a big deal if she sharts the bed or doesn't wipe after doing her thing in the bathroom.


Kinja'd!!! ejp > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:07

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Thanks! I'll dig around and see what I can find - I do frequent the Pelican forums.

Those finned Elephant lines look pretty neat. Have you put any thought into performance mods? I've driven an '87 with a handful of mods (new turbo, giant intercooler, and adjustable boost controller). When that thing hit boost, it was one of the most frightening experiences of my life. It's still (probably) the fastest car that I've ever driven.


Kinja'd!!! Prophet of hoon > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:08

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Postpartum depression, but it's not like you're ever fixated on perfection ;) ... the depression you suffer happens after you have a kid or a Porsche, though in the end, it's always a question of which is the better value based on ROI in determining whether or not you get over it.

If it is any consolation, I don't know a Porsche 911 owner (and I do know lots of them) who is laissez-faire about its ownership.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Keith Moon
08/05/2014 at 18:09

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I like Hunter S. Thompson's quote when considered in regards to the 930's....quirks. "You can turn your back on a person, but never turn your back on a drug". The same applies here.


Kinja'd!!! I hoon, therefore I am > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:10

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I thought about going that route, but couldn't really justify it given I'm selling the car soon anyway.


Kinja'd!!! fritzo > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:18

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you have purchased on of the most dangerous production cars ever made. I IMPLORE you to drive the car for a month or two conservatively before you start breaking any speed limits. The turbo in those cars takes a bit to spool up, and drivers that don't time it right when going around a curve often find themselves spun around and facing traffic (especially when it's wet or slippery). Be careful in that beast!


Kinja'd!!! webmonkees > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:19

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I like the way you've applied that Mk2 knowledge into PorscheQuerk Diagnostics.


Hmm.. here's a Porsche investment I can afford. Aren't they eventually going to be buying these back? lawyers, Boxsters, bad mix.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > webmonkees
08/05/2014 at 18:22

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Wow...$500.00. Do IMS failures destroy the case?


Kinja'd!!! B_dol > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:26

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So much win. Congrats!


Kinja'd!!! ThatbastardKurtis > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:38

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The BBS wheels would look good on the e24. Some gold Magnus Walker wheels or period correct wheels would look better. Even some 964 wheels.

That being said, this journey that you have undertaken is a learning experience.


Kinja'd!!! Jonathan Harper > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:39

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My new hero.


Kinja'd!!! perkunas > Le Monstre
08/05/2014 at 18:41

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Don't forget those awesome BBS rims.


Kinja'd!!! burglar can't heart click anything > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:43

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It's an interference motor, and parts are pretty much either not an option or ridiculously expensive. So if the IMS goes, it's as good as scrap.


Kinja'd!!! abgwin > stevethecurse
08/05/2014 at 18:45

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Did I already mention I have a Lancia in the garage? I needed the Jag so I have something to drive...


Kinja'd!!! burglar can't heart click anything > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:48

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As soon as you get over the shock of purchasing an icon, get on with the business of learning to drive it fast. That's a skill that so very few have the ability to claim.

I have significantly less power than you so I've had it easier, but it's been SO rewarding.

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Kinja'd!!! 16volt > burglar can't heart click anything
08/05/2014 at 18:52

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I am rabid reader of the STR Carrera blog and YT vids. You sir are doing it right.


Kinja'd!!! mopower1320 > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 18:53

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1987 No man's land

When I was a kid this movie is what turned me on to Porsche !!


Kinja'd!!! Le Monstre > perkunas
08/05/2014 at 18:55

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Dear god yes. Back to the doctors I go.


Kinja'd!!! stevethecurse > abgwin
08/05/2014 at 18:56

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Hahaha wow. You should probably get a bus pass or a bicycle too then.


Kinja'd!!! DerrickD > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 19:06

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It's been 10yrs now but that is similar to how I found mine. Messaged people in Florida, and a couple other states. Drove a few hundred miles round trip to check out 2 or 3 cars. None addressed the quality I expected for the price I expected. I decided to take a break for 3 months and save another grand or so for a downpayment. Got back to it and immediately got a PM for a car a guy was "thinking" about selling that was 75 miles from my house (same state). 1 week later it was in my garage. Still have it today.

I am REALLY contemplating a Porsche right now, though what I want is out of my price range. Would like to keep it under $30k if possible and I will need a loan. Stupid enthusiasts driving up the prices :(


Kinja'd!!! Reborn Pyrrhic > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 19:09

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I love the 911 SC. For some reason the pure, simplistic late 70s/early 80s 911 is my car of choice. Not the fastest, not the flashiest, but it's the basis of what a 911 should be.

A few years back I got very close, and I mean VERY close to buying one, a 1985 SC in one of my favorite color combos: Guards Red with tan leather interior (my favoritest 911 color combo has the same exterior with an Olive Green exterior). The 911 was for sale on the Alaska Craigslist, the car based near Wasilla, and I was living in Fairbanks. The car was cared for but used, showing the patina expected from a car that is driven. Thanks to Alaska's lack of road salt and Porsche's galvanization the car was rust free. I had test driven the car, it rode fine, it was the car I wanted.

Asking price? A mere $12,000 bucks. This was a few years ago when 911 SC were at the bottom of their price curve. For less than $15,000 I could have a 911 that was not in need of lots of repairs. Now those prices have gone up, and finding a similar car for less than $20,000 would be unheard of today.

So if I got this close to buying this car, what kept me from being a 911 SC owner? A ring. The little white gold thing around my left hand ring finger and the woman it symbolized: my wife. She did't see the wisdom in buying a 911 to be my summer car in a state where I would only drive it for four to six months a year. A car with no back seat, small trunk, with too much horsepower (her words, not mine), expensive parts, etc. Yeah, we've heard this story a few dozen times: guy lets dream car slide away because of women.

In the end I didn't get the 911, got a 1995 Saab 900 SE Turbo instead: low miles car, in excellent shape. It was a fourth of the Porsche's price, had both the backseat and a trunk, my wife liked it. The Saab was a great car for me, I couldn't have asked more of a daily driver car. It was fast (for a mid 90s front wheel drive), very comfortable, very reliable, great on gas. But... a Porsche 911 it wasn't.


Kinja'd!!! JPCHAWLS > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 19:27

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I used to live just south of John walker on Greenwood. I swear I've seen you drive this by a few times. My alltrac and e36 M were always parked on Greenwood.

Cool article and car.


Kinja'd!!! David Russel > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 19:30

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Man up! You are now the owner of one of the baddest-assed cars ever produced by Stuttgart. Keep your chin up and unbunch your panties. P-car ownership is always a wild ride until you get used to a "few drips" here and there!!!


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > DerrickD
08/05/2014 at 19:44

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I have given this advice to air-cooled P-car seekers more than once lately but....look into a 80s Targa. I know, I know, "but its a Targa". 3.5-4yrs ago people said the same thing (ok, maybe not the "same thing") about the 930. They were cheaper than equivalent SCs.

You want an 80s 911, the Targa is best bang for the buck right now in my opinion.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > JPCHAWLS
08/05/2014 at 19:54

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My car has been local (Ballard) for about 10yrs now. True story, about 3yrs ago I followed it for a few miles just listening to the exhaust and contemplating just how I could ever own something like it. Jealousy took over after 5 or so miles and I deduced the owner was probably a douche anyway, and now here I am.....

PS. I love Alltracs. :)


Kinja'd!!! crispyfrog > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 20:29

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My dad owned an auto leasing company back in the 80's, and every weekend he'd bring home the most interesting car on the lot that had come off lease. Of all the cool cars he drove, I'll never forget the black 930. He raced us around our little suburban subdivision at arrest-me speeds, rolling through stop signs. I had just gotten my drivers license, but he of course wouldn't let me drive it.

Just last year I bought my first Porsche - a 981 Boxster S. The next one will be an 80's 911.

He's 87 now and still drives (a Lexus - what else?), just much more slowly now.


Kinja'd!!! llednewnad > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 20:30

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Postpartum


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > llednewnad
08/05/2014 at 20:34

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Fixed. Thank you.


Kinja'd!!! richdelish > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 20:35

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Dammit. You just made me start scouring craigslist for Carreras. Dammit. :-p


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > ejp
08/05/2014 at 20:38

Kinja'd!!!1

I think the seller name is "hams930" or something like that.

My car has the B&B headers, B&B Exhaust, B&B intercooler (not pictured) and SC (regrind) cams. Once I get caught up on a couple things (flapper boxes, springplate bushes) it will probably get a turbo upgrade.

Thats way down the road though, truthfully I have a huge tupperware container filled with new parts to go on first.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > richdelish
08/05/2014 at 20:39

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/benstiller Do it /endbenstiller


Kinja'd!!! burglar can't heart click anything > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 20:45

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So you're the one!

Thanks.


Kinja'd!!! Hectic > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 20:49

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You bought a 30 year old, notoriously expensive to repair car that cut outs at 4000 rpm and has intermittent electrical problems, yet your wrenching abilities stop at checking the oil and airing up the tires? What were you thinking?


Kinja'd!!! Super Nintendo Chalmers > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 20:50

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Where in the country are you from?


Kinja'd!!! Rusty_Jaguar > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 21:00

Kinja'd!!!2

Back in the early 90's, one of my business investors bought a Porsche Turbo from Rony Seikely (former center for the Miami Heat). I loved driving it, cause it was set up like a bug, but it accelerated like being shot out of a rifle. But, it was in the shop every week to the tune of about 300 bucks in '91 money. Best car I never owned.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Super Nintendo Chalmers
08/05/2014 at 21:07

Kinja'd!!!0

Seattle.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Hectic
08/05/2014 at 21:10

Kinja'd!!!2

You are making allot of generalizations there, but I will bite.

What was I thinking? I am going to buy an 80's 911 Turbo.


Kinja'd!!! J_Arena > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 21:21

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"Set all tires pressures to 32 psi"

Huh? I don't know what tires you have on the car, but if you really are as meticulous as your story suggests, I would hope you quickly learn how important tires are with regard to how a Porsche drives and feels.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > J_Arena
08/05/2014 at 21:28

Kinja'd!!!1

The old tires on the car were some low budget "Fuzions", coupled with a slow leak between the wheel halves in the front I ended up playing with allot of different pressure setups. You are correct, more than any other car I have owned it is dramatic the impact pressures have on the 911. And to be clear, this was written awhile ago and this is my first Porsche.


Kinja'd!!! Super Nintendo Chalmers > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 21:43

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Couldn't be farther away! Boston here. Nice looking Turbo though, if this is your first 2nd toy then welcome to the two toy club but watch out for the 3rd! You'll want one and then regret it ;)


Kinja'd!!! Jake > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 21:49

Kinja'd!!!0

I assume with the mention of MK2 Scirocco and the name of 16volt you used to (or may currently) frequent VWVortex forums? I remember seeing your name around quite a bit when I had my MK2 16v's.

Back to the current topic. Nice 930. I hope it treats you well.


Kinja'd!!! Jake > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 21:49

Kinja'd!!!0

I assume with the mention of MK2 Scirocco and the name of 16volt you used to (or may currently) frequent VWVortex forums? I remember seeing your name around quite a bit when I had my MK2 16v's.

Back to the current topic. Nice 930. I hope it treats you well.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Jake
08/05/2014 at 21:53

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You are correct. :)


Kinja'd!!! 635BMW270 > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 22:16

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As you can probably tell from my handle, I'm in love with the e24 635's. I'm 19 and hope to purchase one and slowly do a resto-mod over the next few years. Any tips or recommendations when it comes to buying and owning one?


Kinja'd!!! Manuél Ferrari > Reborn Pyrrhic
08/05/2014 at 22:25

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+1

The SC is reliable. And while I know the 3.2 that came after it is faster I'm just not sure it's worth spending more money if you can find an SC with similar miles in the same condition for less.


Kinja'd!!! TheVancen- In Pursuit of a Greater Payday and Car Parts > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 22:39

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Nice wheels. You have good taste Sir.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Reborn Pyrrhic
08/05/2014 at 22:39

Kinja'd!!!1

There is a purity with the SC. I considered one, though when I thought long and hard about I went straight to the 930. My "litmus test" was picturing both in an empty parking lot and me having to choose which set of keys. I choose the 930 every time.

We all walk a fine line when it comes to the right car at the right time. I probably dont need to tell you this but hindsight is 20/20, the "one that got away" yadda yadda. My advice (not that anyone asked for it) is, life is temporary dont let a childish decision become an adult regret. That of course is vastly over simplifying. My GF gives my car choices a wide berth but I would not have bought the 930 had it not been for encouragement to do so. I have a tendency to get too pragmatic.

The 900 is a great car, I owned a Saab Viggen for a number of years. Turbo Saabs are vastly under-appreciated.


Kinja'd!!! boost_retard > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 22:41

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As long as the supermodel in your bed puts out, who cares if she farts or doesn't reload the toilet paper roll?


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > 635BMW270
08/05/2014 at 22:57

Kinja'd!!!2

The best advice is the oldest. Buy the best car you can afford right out of the gate. I guess here are the broad strokes of buying an E24.

Patience. They made allot of these cars, there is allot of junk on the market. People buy them thinking they got a deal on classic then discover issues greater than their skill set. Allot of cars just get/got run into the ground. Wait for the right car.

Next would be to join the bigcoupe and E24 bimmerfourm sections. Tons of info there.

Beware of leaky cars. I hate oil leaks, neglected M30 motors leak like a sieve and unless you are a dedicated DIY guy it can get pricey. Especially the front end of the engines timing gear bits.

Stay away from anything with electrical issues, these cars are very complex for their age. While well built electrically troubleshooting can be a nightmare.

No rust. These cars get eaten pretty quickly given their age and there are allot of nooks and crannys in the body where water gets trapped.

The last bit (which is why it took me so long to buy mine) is to wait for a manual. But that could be just a personal preference. Generation wise you get a bit more for your money with the later cars (power, bumpers, couple interior tweaks) but for me the park bench bumpers really didnt bother me.

Hope that helps.


Kinja'd!!! UnkleEnzo > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 23:09

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Love this. As a vintage 911 owner myself, I really look forward to more updates. The first post with the dipstick was spot on. I think most of us have been there.


Kinja'd!!! Hectic > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 23:25

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I guess I'm just a little bent because the people who say, "I'm going to buy an 80's Porsche" have driven the prices through the roof. I mean come on, you needed the owner's manual to open the damn hood. So when you get tired of paying John Walker's to keep it on the road, hit me up, I might take it off your hands. (fyi, on the test drive, I WILL go over 4000 rpm, way over).


Kinja'd!!! Tibbett > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 23:38

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I lived with one for 3 years before selling to fund another project. Only vehicle I regret selling so far.


Kinja'd!!! Rows His Own > 16volt
08/05/2014 at 23:40

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This sounds like the new love story I've had with my 5 day old 996 Turbo. While nowhere near as classic, I still manage to nitpick the little things, for instance the two tone manual interior and the not-so-great B&G SSK. But I've passed from the depression of selling my flawless E46 M3 show car to the joy that is a 911. Best of luck. Welcome to the club


Kinja'd!!! B_dol > Mr. Ligier 812 GTC4Lusso Rubicon Pista
08/06/2014 at 01:16

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Growing that collection of yours? How is your garage/storage setup these days, if I recall you are in the Bay Area which can be tough on space!

Do you ever make it out to the C&C events (south bay or SF)?


Kinja'd!!! Neil Davidson > 16volt
08/06/2014 at 01:37

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"I am also starting to see some systems "come back to life"."

Had this happen with my '85 BMW. Very few of the gauges worked when I first started it, but after a few months, it's nearly all good now.


Kinja'd!!! chromeboston > 16volt
08/06/2014 at 01:49

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I really enjoyed your article. I recently purchased an 1987 930 turbo. It makes me smile everytime I see it in the garage. Best purchase ever!


Kinja'd!!! Reborn Pyrrhic > 16volt
08/06/2014 at 01:55

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Well, if she had been my GF and not my wife I'd be a Porsche owner now. All said and done, I bought an excellent Saab, fell in love with the car and the brand (Saab owners are great guys), and have owned a few of them since.

A 944 or 911 SC might be one of my next cars, I think.


Kinja'd!!! 16volt > Hectic
08/06/2014 at 02:17

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Have you been looking at my OkCupid profile? Because, wow, its like you totally know me.

The values are being driven via a variety of factors. Notably with regards to the 930 its history of being passed over in in collectors circles. About 2.5yrs ago a SC/Carrera cost a little more than a 930. If you follow the market you will have seen cars come out of storage, sell for $25K and be cleaned up and flipped for $70K a month later. All things "80s" are climbing in value, a rising tide floats all ships. I "lost" two other 930s to buyers overseas who paid the asking price or more sight unseen.

And if you dont own a 911 and can tell me off the top of your head which orientation the lock cylinder is on the hood release when its locked then I agree, you should buy a 930 right now. I mean, you definitely deserve it more than I. :)