so I've spent a lot of time this past year researching my next car, RS5, a 997 turbo, and a 996 turbo.

But ??? I saw a 1989 964 that absolutely blew me away. I have really been taken by the older model 964's of the early 90's as well. I just love the look ! The sound. So rare , so classic !

Of course no purchase would exclude a thorough PPI. But what kind of maintenance would I be expecting on cars with about 150k-200,000 kms.

So in 2014, in a world of Ipads, bluetooth, navigation, and back up cameras, am I nuts for looking to buy a "classic" car as my sole driver. Not my daily driver. Maybe 2-3 times per week.

How reliable can I expect it ? I've heard horror stories of overheating after being stuck in traffic.

Any advice would be great..

 

not really. they were unwanted for a long period of time. now try to find one with good condition is very hard. the price has nearly been tripled in the past year. Classics are the $hit now. what's frankly is that the modern 911 doesn't drive like a classic 911 should be. technology is great. but imo the simplicity is more important in 911 & that's what's missing in today's cars.

 

No, you're not crazy. Thats why the prices on all air cooled cars have gone nuts.

 

^^what he said...I love them!! but yes a thorough PPI /leak down etc is needed...they dont go south in price either ...

 

Just picked up a 91 964 C2 a month ago with 85k miles and it's been a blast. I had the PPI done and they basically came back saying its a great car but still needed a few thousand in repairs. Nothing major but I wanted everything in working order and no leaks. I say go for it and don't look back. If I had the time and was more handy im sure I could have made several of the repairs myself and saved at least half on the repair bill but I don't have the time right now.

 

No, not crazy, the 964 is a great car. I love the size too.

Have one for last 10 years, and been a blast, liked it more than the 993's I once owned. Key is buy one from an enthusiast, and have it thoroughly checked by someone that knows these cars.

 

There are people that DD them. As far as overheating - what climate are you in? Should not be an issue on a well-sorted car(fans working, etc).

 

I'm looking for one as well, what i've been warned about is electrical issues and that the late 91 and newer cars didn't have head gaskets so there are sometimes issues.

 

Not an issue. I dd mine in boston year round
Not sure what electrical issues you've been warned about.
Its <91 that didnt have head gaskets. Most have either been done at this point, or just didn't leak when the recall was done. Figure 6k+ to freshen up the top end. A lot of " while you're in there" type projects add up quick though.

 

Agreed.

I DD my '93 and it's pretty HOT in the Central Valley at this time.
It's a thrill to fire her up every morning and hear that air-cooled Flat-6 singing sweet music to my ears.

You are not crazy...

 

Owning most every vintage of 911 and selling most of them there is only one that I could not live with out..... A 964. It is the Ex Girlfriend I could never get over. After owning a 964 RS I had to duplicate the driving experience. It is second to none in my book. Get one while you can. They are getting harder to find.

 

The 964 is now my favorite. It has the classic look and more up to date technology. I currently have a 94 RS America and just bought a 1992 911 Turbo S2 (1 of 20). And the values are starting to take off. But you can still find some bargains.