IN THE GARAGE: 1980 Porsche 911 SC Targa

TIMELESS CLASSIC In what was supposed to be the swan song of the venerable 911 in favor of Porsche’s front engined water-cooled models like the 928 and 924 Turbo, Porsche engineers created what was—and for many still is—the best production 911 to date. Despite being in its 14th year at its introduction in 1978, the SC combined reliability, durability and performance that has yet to be surpassed, not just by Porsche but by any marque. As such, the popularity of the 911 and its resulting sales were stronger than ever, outselling its V8 sibling. It’s not hard to see why. They were quick, nimble, reliable and efficient. Nothing that Porsche—or anyone else at the time—could come close to. The car presented here is a perfect example of those attributes. It’s been enjoyed to the limit but exceptionally well maintained and nicely preserved. It has all the right stuff including documented service records dating back to 1990 It’s as good as it gets for history: PCA (Porsche Club of America) ownership spanning only two owners.

OVERALL CONDITION
The first thing we notice about the car is its gorgeous black finish over black partial leather. The bügel (targa bar) wears its original black anodization where others have long faded away or been reanodized. Rubber is new all around and seals tight. Inside, we find factory sport seats that show very little wear. Controls and instruments, even the clock, all work properly. AC blows cold (very unusual for an older SC). The targa top is near perfect with fresh seals and excellent top and headliners. The motor, like any 3.0, is a beautiful piece of machinery. No leaks. Excellent valve clearance. Smooth and strong. Tires are new Kumhos. This is a very nice and well preserved example of a classic 911.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
I’ve said it before. 911s are made to be driven. By today’s standards, 172 horsepower is ho-hum, but put it over the rear wheels of a 3,000 lb. car with a low center of gravity and a set of fat tires and just try not to smile. Like any 911, it’s loads of fun to drive. Put your foot in it and its factory sport seats seats will hug you. Show it a twisty road and it will dance with you. If you’re feeling a little racy, that’s fine too. The 3.0 liter is considered by many to be the ideal combination of sports and Grand Touring (where later 911s became a little too heavy and cushy for their tastes). Here again, this car demonstrates that well. Everything on it it silky and tight. The motor fires up and pulls strong. Shifting is typical 915: crisp and smooth but requiring some practice to match revs. Steering is very responsive and the road feel is excellent through a tight suspension and excellent tires. Braking is firm and solid. It’s the joy of motoring in a relatively simple form—with Targa top in or out for added wind-in-your-hair exhilaration. This is a car that feels classic but completely fresh and relevant. In other words, it’s a true 911.

The car is located in Sarasota Florida. I’m happy to answer any questions, entertain offers, or arrange a showing to serious buyers.

I welcome international bidders, novice eBay users (with less than 10 feedback points), and those with less than 100% positive feedback. But PLEASE contact me prior to bidding. Your bid will be automatically declined otherwise.