The 356 and the models that have remained optically alike to the first 911 from 1964 are generally considered to be 'classic Porsches'. The world-famous 'romantic' round shapes of the 365, the line pattern, engine sound and chrome parts of the first 911 models make many people dream about driving such a Porsche on a daily basis. However, some sense of reality is appropriate here. Classic Porsches are not galvanized so they are more susceptible to rust. Older cars require more overhaul, are more vulnerable and require more care and attention. Nevertheless, a Porsche is the most reliable classic car. Especially when used on a seasonal basis or for recreational purposes, you will derive great pleasure from a 356 or 911.
Daily driving is possible provided that the car is prepared carefully, maintenance is carried out on a regular basis and a chassis inspection is carried out every year. We would be pleased to help you with this.
What is an A, B or C type? A 2.2 or a 2.4? T, E of S? Visit our dealership and we will be happy to outline their differences as well as their pros and cons.
"There is no car like a Porsche. And there is no Porsche like a Targa"
The 2.2 litre and the 2.4 litre T were the most commonly produced versions and therefore they are the most affordable models. They were either available as a Coupé or a Targa. The E and S models with mechanical injection are quite rare and they are worth (considerably) more.
A Coupé or a Targa? The extra dimension of driving with the top down (a 911 Cabriolet was not available at the time) has been the reason for many people to choose for this option. The beautiful roof line and chassis stiffness of the Coupé are usually the reasons to choose for this model. The production rate of the Coupé has always been four times higher than that of the Targa.
The mechanical injection systems of the E and S classic models often suffer from symptoms of old age and they only do their work noticeably in the higher speed ranges. For an average speed range people often choose the less vulnerable carburettor version.
The top model in the famous F-series is the 1973 Carrera 2.7RS. Only 500 cars were produced in the Lightweight version and approximately 1000 cars in the Touring version which was 100 kg heavier than the Lightweight.
You have to bear in mind that the purchase prices are similar to prices for which you can buy a nice apartment. If you like, you can also have us build or find you a replica that is indistinguishable from the real thing. For less than half the price and you will not notice the difference.
Photo of Ferry Porsche posing in the production hall of the 356. I have put an enlarged copy in our showroom for inspiration and out of respect for the man. He was the most influential man that had put Porsche on the map. His son Ferdinand (nickname 'Butzi') was a milestone to the 911 design.
These are the most affordable 911 models and they are becoming increasingly popular. Fixed low costs due to the absence of road tax, insurance premiums based on classic car rates, galvanized body works, injection engines and still those iconic lines and engine sound. It is all there. NB, good cars are very sought after and therefore they are quite rare. Unfortunately, the cars were not always appreciated in the past and as a result they were neglected. So, these are the cars we do not want to buy. Starting from 150 hp up to 204 hp, the successive models can still achieve contemporary performances thanks to their relatively low weight. They are galvanized but they are susceptible to rust and this is something we bear in mind when we select our cars.
Until 1983 there had not been an official Cabriolet version of the 911. The Coupé and Targa versions were supplemented by a Cabriolet for the first time in 1983: the 911SC Cabriolet which was only built for one year. In 1984, it was succeeded by the 911 Carrera Cabriolet which remained in production until 1989. This was also the last Cabriolet version without power steering.
The 911 2.7 and 3.0SC models are the first Porsches that had galvanized bodies to counter the rust problem. The galvanizing was not without flaws with the consequence that today you have to be alert to any possible rust in these models.
The characteristic dashboard remained virtually unchanged from 1969 until 1997. The famous five clocks can be counted among the biggest design successes in the car industry of the past years. Over the years, the seats were still further improved to better convey the driving characteristics of the car to the driver. And on top of this, it has also improved comfort.
Whether it is a Coupé, Targa or Cabriolet, based on 20 years of development, a 911 3.2 Carrera has proved to be the best 911. That is until the models with power steering were introduced. Many purists felt this to be a sin in a purebred sports car like the 911. The fully galvanized body rules out rust provided it has not been damaged. The further developed and flawless Bosch L-Jetronic injection system in combination with a larger capacity gives the engine a power of 231 Hp with outstanding torque. As a result of decades of development, the suspension, brakes and performance were considered to be the best of all air-cooled 'classic' Porsches … until the 964 was introduced in 1989.
The 911 3.2 Carrera and Turbo were both built in Cabriolet versions. The signature engine sound is truly wonderful when you are driving with the top down without being annoying. In fact, the engine sound is like music to the ears and enhances the driving experience!
At the introduction of the 1986 300hp strong, 3.3 liter version, the world- famous Turbo was Porsche's ticket to the Supercar league. At the time, it was one of the fastest cars in the world with an acceleration of 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 260km.
It had very recognizable wheels were considered by many people to be the most beautiful wheels in the world. The wheels of the 911, produced by Fuchs, come in the official f 14,15 & 16 inch diameters. The wheel widths are up to 9 inches for certain Turbo models. The wheels are no longer produced in these measurements and are therefore very valuable and increasingly hard to find.
Even the 'very best' 911 has flaws. Of course we are familiar with these too. A Witmer & Odijk 3.2 Carerra has been tested on these. This will prevent you from buying the proverbial pig in the poke that even a Porsche can turn out to be.
Porsche wanted more and had to do more. In order to survive, they needed more affluent motorists to buy a Porsche. The marketing department advised: it is high time for power-steering, reliable climate control, no more torsion bar springs and four- wheel drive. In short, an 89% improved 911 although the car had always been a further development of and an improvement on the previous type.
The original roofline and headlight setup were kept, however the 964 was almost entirely new below the surface. More complex technology was used in a design that was completely new and this causes a 964 today to have higher maintenance costs than any of its predecessors and its successor: the 993. On the other hand, a very good 964 does not have to cost more than a good 3.2 Carrera and has a considerably lower purchase price than a 993.
As a result of the favourable additional tax regulation, reliability and absence of rust it is suitable for daily use. Why not not consider a four-wheel drive Carrera 4 for the sake of safety in connection with our Dutch climate?
The 964 was the first 911 variant with power-steering and from 1991 it was also available with airbags. The steering wheel still was not adjustable but fortunately the classic clocks had remained. A Tiptronic with semi-automatic transmission was also available for the first time. This automatic transmission enables shifting gear manually when you wish to drive sportively or when circumstances require you to do so.
Four-wheel drive also became available, even in the Targa and Cabriolet versions. This largely compensated for the drawback of having a rear-engine in wet conditions. In practice, it proved to be a technically highly reliable system.
This is the ultimate 911 for many people. At the introduction in 1993, Porsche had already had over thirty years of experience with the air-cooled 911. The experiences Porsche had gained with the 964 were incorporated into the design and it was the last air-cooled Porsche model ever. The best driving characteristics (MultikLink Wheel suspension), comfort and high reliability make this a much sought-after model. According to modern ideas and certainly in relation to the production numbers of its successor, relatively few cars were made. This, in combination with the great qualities mentioned before, is the reason why they do not come cheap. However, they are very stable in value and in the last few years their prices have even been going up. As a consequence of continuous development, hydraulic valve adjustment and its age, the 993 can be maintained in an affordable manner. This model too offers a choice between two-wheel and four-wheel drive. The first 993 models are also tax-friendly for the company car driver.
It was the first time that that the car did not have the removable Targa roof. In 1997, a glass sliding roof with electric roll-up sun blinds that had 22 patents on it was more modern than the removable roof of the more classic Targa. However, as a consequence, the characteristic Targa shape had disappeared.
The 993 Turbo was the first model to have four-wheel drive so that its 405 hp could be handled on the road. Only 6365 cars were built of this model, and today it is a very sought-after and valuable Porsche. It is susceptible to mediocre maintenance. Even today, the 993 Turbo is a super fast sports car that is virtually limitless.
The Cabriolet version comes standard with an automatic folding wind blocker. It is a wonderful provision that enables driving with the top down fairly quickly. Only 18,000 Cabriolet cars were made in the 993 series. With an attractive mileage it has become a real investment object today. A fun factor at its best!
From 1994, the 993 was given a Tiptronic steering wheel. For example, if you wish, you can downshift from the steering wheel to perform an overtaking manoeuvre. Fully automatic up- and downshifting is also possible. Manual shifting will always give you a sporty driving feel. It is all up to you or why not visit us and try it yourself.
Whatever people may think about the abandonment of the air-cooled engine because of emission regulations and the adapted 911 model, the 996 is a fantastic car. An all-rounder which you can use for grocery shopping but with which you can just as easily do 260 km per hour on the German Autobahn. There is not anything it cannot handle. It is safe thanks to Traction Control, the strengthening door bars, six airbags and, if so desired, four-wheel drive. The automatic Tiptronic transmission with steering control is an interesting option for daily use. Under the leadership of Wendelin Wiedeking, Porsche had to satisfy their shareholders, so, from a sports car point of view relatively many of these models were built. This is why we can offer the 996 even with a low mileage at attractive prices. This is something we specialize in. The MKII model with increased engine capacity, more power, different headlights and a number of other modifications has been available from August 2001.
The first Porsche Cabriolet had a roof that disappeared automatically under a tonneau. There was no more need to attach any covers, although this certainly had its charm. The cabriolet roof can be opened and closed using a key remote. The fully automatic top can be opened or closed within 20 seconds.
The first water-cooled 911 Turbo. 420 hp, top speed 305 km p/h and an acceleration of 0-100 kph in 4.2 seconds. This car could only be put on the road safely with four-wheel drive. Traction Control and six airbags made it the safest 911 Turbo of that moment.
The extra rear screen air intakes are important features of the 996 Turbo. The rear spoiler automatically deploys at 120km/h.
The 911 finally became more accessible and therefore also more comfortable. A five-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic steering control contributed to this comfort as well as less engine noise because of water cooling. For the first time in its history the design of the dashboard was adapted to the times. All metres could now be read at a single glance.
A car manufacturer has to continuously innovate and improve its services to keep the customers interested. In 2004, Porsche introduced the 997. Although the car was built on the same platform as the 996, Porsche managed to improve the car yet again. More power, a more accessible interior, electronically adjustable shock absorbers and gas pedal reaction and a redesigned appearance were the most important improvements. Very suitable for daily use, therefore it is more difficult to find cars with low odometer readings. Maintenance friendly. There are 15 different models with a choice of 3.6 litre or 3.8 litre engines. From 325 hp to 530 hp. We would be pleased to outline their differences and possibilities for you.
In the 997 one sees the re-emergence of the popular style elements of the 993 that had been appreciated by everyone. The extra curve in the rear screens and the classic round headlights had returned. The even wider 4S with the Turbo chassis is the widest model in this series.
Porsche are champions in offering variations on the 911 theme. The Targa also re-emerged two years after the introduction of the 997.It is a stylish combination of the good qualities of a Cabriolet and a Coupé.
At the end of the variation series the Turbo reappeared again in 2006. Now partly due to the Variable Turbine technology of the Turbos almost without a turbo-hole but with more power. No less than 480 hp on four wheels.
The 911/997 Cabriolet became available once more in the Carrera, Carrera-S and Turbo variations. The cabriolet top could be operated from a distance with the ignition key. It was so quiet and insulated when the top was closed that it became the standard not to deliver the 911 with a hardtop. Moreover, it came with a heated glass rear screen.
The 997 was given standard Xenon headlights that were round-shaped once more.
Could it be any better than this? It was not believed to be possible when the previous models were introduced: yet the 991 had managed to take another substantial step forward. How to explain this subtstantial step forward is a matter of personal taste and perception of course. Perfection may not appeal to you that much and you get used to this quickly. A difficult choice, but perhaps less so when you have the money readily available.
520 hp, four-wheel drive, Bi-Turbo system, automatic start/stop system, these are the High- Tech features of the latest 991 Turbo. Introduction in September 2013.
The latest 911/991 Cabriolet still has the look of a fabric top. Below this fabric there is a hard material which makes the convertible top almost like a folding hardtop. This technological ingenuity combines beauty and comfort in the best possible manner.
7-Speed manual transmission version which is sold increasingly less. It is the first time in history that the optional PDK 7-speed automatic transmission in a 911 shifts gear faster than a race-driver can do by hand. It is a car that sells very well.
A dashboard that has been designed fully around the driver but (unfortunately?) with some Panamera DNA. The additional benefit is that your passengers will automatically assume that you have also got your pilot's licence.
Can I have a look at the engine? This is a question we often get from customers who are also interested in the technical side of things. Unfortunately, this is somewhat of a disappointment from the latest 911 model. Fortunately, driving makes up a lot for this. We have tested this extensively for you. And we will only tell you in a private conversation what Porsches are really fun. There is one out there for you that will also meet your requirements!
In General
There is a lot more to be said about the different types of Porsche. Besides, there are more models and special editions than the ones we have described above.
I would like to tell you all about the cars in a personal conversation. I will be more than happy to answer any of your questions. And I will be happy to advise you about which Porsche would best suit you and your budget. I will be frank about the pros and cons. Emotions aside, cars are fun, and when you use the information to your advantage, you make sure that they stay fun.
Are you the owner of a Porsche and do you have any questions or does your car need maintenance? Then please contact Witmer & Odijk Autoservice, our garage in Leiden.