IN THE GARAGE: 1986 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2

Excellent driver in special order color

THIS ONE’S A SPECIAL PIECE. The early 80s were supposed to be the end of the line for the 911, but their popularity remained as strong as ever and the Carrera 3.2 is the car that ushered in its continuation. 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. These were and still are cars made to be driven—some daily. And while the mileage isn’t exceptionally low, they are the right miles for a 25-year old 911. While all 911s can be considered special, this one is just a little more so for having been ordered from the factory (code L999) in its striking Meteor Gray Metallic paint over Burgundy leather. It has all the right stuff, including books, tools, service gloves, etc. and something that is becoming increasingly hard, if not impossible, to find: the original window sticker.In addition, it has some unique options including factory Script Delete or “debadging,” which was and continues to be popular amongst autobahners and autobwhannabes to give their car a streamlined, stealth presence. It’s a car that’s been enjoyed but never abused by either of its two owners and its condition—inside-out, going and stopping, reflects the love.

OVERALL CONDITION
The first thing that you’ll notice (and probably already have for reading this far) is that it is GORGEOUS. As you’ll see in the photos, it has that wonderful ability to look different under various lighting conditions, going from a warm gray to a cooler pewter tone indoors or in softer light. It is sultry, handsome, and rich. It is complimented perfectly by the Burgundy full-leather interior and carpets. It turns heads and raises thumbs everywhere it goes and goes it does. The motor is strong and silky while handling is taught and steady. Tires are near new and wheels are pefectly balanced. It’s a great example of what makes the classic 911 an icon and why it lives on as a legend today.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
I’ve said it before. 911s are made to be driven. By today’s standards, 207 horsepower is ho-hum, but put it over the rear wheels of a 2,200 lb. car with a low center of gravity and a set of fat tires and it just try not to smile. Like any 911, this one is loads of fun to drive. Put your foot in it and its sports 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. Track on Sunday; back to work on Monday with just a little less rubber to show for it. The Carrera 3.2 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 works. The AC blows cold, the sunroof opens and closes without a hitch, windows, climate control, seats, everything. There are simply very few cars that can deliver the smiles-per-mile that a classic 911 can and this car does it beautifully.