In 1981, the 911 was famously saved by Peter Schutz, the then-new CEO of Porsche. The front-engined V8 928, which had begun production in 1977, was supposed to replace the 911, which was accordingly being run out during this period. The 911 received no meaningful changes because its production was due to end shortly, making the 1978 to 1983 period the longest in the 911’s production run without any substantive updates.
1984’s arrival of the 3.2 liter Carrera, the replacement of the 3.0 liter SC, was the direct result of Schutz’s decision to keep investing in the 911, bringing overdue upgrades in the form of an enlarged engine with, for the first time in a 911, electronic fuel injection via Bosch’s Motronic system.
More changes followed in subsequent years including new seats, updated switchgear, revised dashboard, and for 1987, the new G50 transmission together with hydraulic clutch. It was an altogether more modern affair and addressed criticisms of the old 915 transmission’s shift character, which was described as old fashioned even when it was introduced in 1972.
These Carrera 3.2s represent a sweet spot in the 911’s evolution, possessing modern, emissions-friendly engine management, but no other computers. Without ABS or power steering, they have an old-school feel that is a revelation to today’s enthusiasts, yet the galvanized chassis and fuel injection give the car a durability and usability that make them ideal classics.
This particular example is a longtime California car which has lived in California since at least the late 1990s. This included over 20 years in San Luis Obispo and more recent years in Calistoga.
The car is equipped with cruise control and 7” and 8” by 16” alloy wheels, which received new tires in 2022. The car also has Turbo tie rod ends, a Steve Wong chip, as well as SSI heat exchangers with Monty muffler. The AC system has been removed (the compressor is included) and a Momo Monte Carlo steering wheel has also been installed.
The car has been carefully maintained, with recent work including new oxygen sensor, oil change, new dimmer switch, new lower valve cover gaskets, brake fluid service, new air filter, and a new rear sway bar bracket, a common issue on these cars. Records since the late 1990s show consistent maintenance with regular fluid changes, replacement of brake components, new rear shock absorbers, and much more. The car comes with tool roll with tools, owner’s manual, and more than 25 years of service records.
