IN THE GARAGE: 1989 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet

Exceptional driver with excellent history

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. As a 1989, it is among the last of the classic 911s and Cabriolet with factory tail to boot. 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 22-year old 911. While all 911s can be considered special, this one is just a little more so for having been serviced at Brumos Porsche, a legend in Le Mans and ALMS motorsports. It has all the right stuff including books, tools, records, etc. and something that is becoming increasingly hard, if not impossible, to find: the original window sticker. It’s a car that’s been enjoyed but never abused with an excellent history that is a story of three friends that admired the car and would only pass it on to another friend; hence, the latest owner has known the car since new.

OVERALL CONDITION
The admiration and ensuing pampering that the car received is evident on first sight. The paint is glossy and shows absolutely no fading or burning from the Florida sun. It’s a car that has clearly been garaged since new. There is no rust anywhere and only minor touch-up along the front bumper. No pitting anywhere else. Rubber trim is excellent as is the glass. Doors fit perfectly and gaps are excellent all around. Inside, it’s fresh with no wear, no cracks and no dinginess or yellowing that is typical of linen interiors after several years. Top is near perfect with clear window and no scuffs, nicks, or fraying. The car’s aesthetic appeal is unmistakable, but its real beauty is in its drivetrain.

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 3,200 lb. car with a low center of gravity and a set of fat tires and 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. 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—in fact better than any I’ve personally had the pleasure to drive. As a lifelong Porsche enthusiast, I don’t think I’m exaggerating when I say I’ve driven over a hundred 911s. This car is the nicest driving 911 I’ve come across. There is without question something exceptional, almost magical, in the smooth, seductive power band coming from the 3.2 liter motor, as well as the crisp, quick shifts through all gears in the superb G50 gearbox. It’s a case of a great car becoming that much better from having legendary mechanical attention and expertise in the hands of Brumos Porsche. Add to that the joy of wind-in-your-hair driving and it’s a car that delivers nothing short of pure bliss.