hmm, they might be, looking at their photo on the web site, http://www.americaninternationalraci...259246&page=46,
they do appear similar, I wonder if a good body shop could get rid of the extrusion at the top where it meets the body. If not it looks tacky...

 

I meant that I don't really want a FAST car persay, I would imagine an N/A having a higher fun/headaches ratio because it would handle the same.

 

ah, understood. that is a logical question

well, you're in luck. I own both (87t, 86 n/a) and can tell you that there is no difference in the headache/fun ratio between a turbo or an n/a. the turbos on the 951s are very solid, and so are the support systems. porsche had done their homework over years of turbo development at the track (read: Le Mans, Sebring, Daytona, Nelson Ledges,...)

if you keep up with proper maintenance (i.e. oil services, timing belts, etc) you won't have any problems. these are things that need to be done on an n/a as well, so there is no difference in these. the only other thing you should keep an eye on would be the turbo cooler water pump. if it starts to act up or make funny noises, replace it immediately. it's cheap insurance. this pump is one of the main items that helps give these turbos a relatively trouble-free life, as it aids in cooling the turbo even after the engine has been shut down

in short, these turbo systems are some of the most hassle free ever designed. it is quite common to see them lasting upward of 200k if maintained properly

P.S. I work at a Porsche service center in Seattle. let me know if I can help in any way

 

Thanks for the info, if I start shopping it won't be until summer when I start working again. I'm not looking for a show car here, I just want something that runs when I need it to, and I'm not opposed to some bloody knuckles here and there, hell I owned a DSM!!!

I will definitely keep you in mind when I start looking, I need to do my research.

 

My last 951 hit the 200k mark and was still running strong (19psi) on the original turbo for whatever its worth

 

I tried to sell mine a few months ago but couldn't get what i was asking. Every time that boost gauge spikes I'm so glad I kept it!

 

Just bought one two weeks ago. Handles great, tons of power, looks fantastic. Glad I flew up to Sacramento to get it.

 

thinking about the way these cars handle makes me want to cry. i miss my n/a that i had for 2 days before i totaled it. i was young and dumb and still dont forgive myself years later

 

I owned an 87 951 a few years back that was modified by Derrek Huntley before things went bad for him. It was fast and fun and had 171,000 miles when I sold it. It made 330 whp! A blast to drive.

 

My '88 turbo s puts a smile on my face every time I drive it.

 

i LOVE IT :=)

 

still one of my fav cars...

 

Sold mine with 180k with minimal real serious issues! Great car!