1977 Porsche 911 S Widebody 2.7 from North America

Summary:

Ear to ear smile

Faults:

I've had the car a short time, but when I picked it up, it was in need of some maintenance as it looked to have been enjoyed more than taken care of.

So far the front bumper (95 I believe) has been reinstalled to the proper fit and number of bolts, the fog light system, high beam and right side turn signals are now working. (Fuses!)

The car is in very good shape in the body as someone way back invested in undercoat. The interior is at about 75%, with that being mostly wear and tear except for the dash crack (crap). If you own one, you know what I mean!

The drivetrain is in good shape for its mileage, but it is going to require a trans rebuild in the future (synchros worn). Also I am currently preparing to take the alternator for a rebuild.

General Comments:

This car is not for someone whom does not want to put in some time and sweat to enjoy. It is a 32-year-old model and has been modded, so finding replacement stuff can be a challenge!

I picked it up for a toy to keep me busy, and it has not let me down at all.

Driving it is a handful of fun, but its true self cannot be seen in any kind of street traffic type of ride. You must be out in the wind and hills with no traffic around to truly become scared of what you just did in your 911.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th June, 2010

1977 Porsche 911 S 2.7 Liter from North America

Summary:

Why did I wait so long to get a 911?

Faults:

Nothing to date.

General Comments:

This is a 33 year old sports car, but it is a great automobile.

With the engine upgrades, this car is very reliable and fun.

It is not the fastest car out there, but there isn't anything out there like a 911 either.

Engine sounds awesome cruising on the road.

A real fun car, makes even a trip to McDonald's with the wife a fun date.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th January, 2010

1977 Porsche 911 S 2.7 from North America

Summary:

The best second car you can buy on a reasonable budget

Faults:

Fuel pump failed after 30 years & 54,000 miles.

Targa top tends to leak in the rain.

Oil leaks are not uncommon.

General Comments:

One of the best cars I've ever driven. It isn't the fastest car out there, but extremely easy to push to the limit on any road you might be on, be it twisty mountain road or wide open freeway. The sound coming from the 2.7 engine with the windows down and the top off is seriously addicting--you can hear it bouncing back off of everything you pass along the road.

Comfort and ride quality are definitely sub-par if you're going to use it as a daily driver. Stereo is weak and ride noise is very loud. It's also very hot in the summer. A Targa-top is a luxury in this situation. After all, the car is air cooled, so why shouldn't the passengers be also? Seriously though, the air conditioning is manageable if a little weak.

Drive quality is good, but not mind-blowing. The car feels extremely managable, just enough power to have some serious fun with, but not enough to get you in trouble. Combine this with exceptional handling and road-feel and you really are at one with the road. A targa top only makes the experience all the more enjoyable, although it detracts somewhat from the classic 911 silhouette.

Maintenance is a huge jump above similarly-aged sports cars. Any 911 this old should already have Turbo valve covers and Carrera chain tensioners installed unless they've been buried in a time capsule. Expect a full engine rebuild (8-10k $USD) around 50,000 miles. Tires, oil, and various expendable components as well as labor will be expensive, but won't break the bank like similar components for a Ferrari or Lamborghini will.

The car operates best when let loose. It really hates to be reined in at 45 MPH in stop-and-go traffic, and low-speed cruising lets the entire world know that all four vacuum-boosted brakes squeal when they're used. This car is designed to be driven alone or with one other person, not paraded around like so many other kid-cruisers.

Still, even after 30 years, this car can still turn heads from just about everyone. Not the outright excitement that a Ferrari might bring, but those in the know will smile and nod in respect. And the smile it will bring to your face is second to none. There's nothing else like it on the road.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th February, 2007

16th May 2007, 13:26

I have a 1976 911s Targa and have to agree with the writers comments. It is my summer toy and it definitely puts a smile on my face. Taking it out on country roads for a drive beats going to a shrink for therapy.

I bought from a friend 3 years ago. It has about 163,000 miles on it without a major rebuild, just updates. Lucky I guess.

Happy driving.

26th Apr 2011, 12:28

I have a 1977 91 Targa, which I have owned since 1988. I use it as a nice weather driver. I love it as much as I did when I bought it.

Agree with the main reviewer. Very well built.

Please note, if you want an old 911, this is a great car. The 100% galvanized steel means no rust if properly taken care of. The original rust warranty was for 10 years. I live in Boston, and actually drove it for several winters. Also, every part on the car is available, no matter how small from a company like Performance Products or a dismantler such as Parts Heaven. If you are a do-it-yourself, you can often fix things that need to be repaired. Also, buy a targa. No matter what you do, the A/C won't work very well unless you swap out the whole system for a modern A/C system.

27th Apr 2011, 19:52

I've always admired pre SC 911s but am wondering about the 2.7l motor. I understand they aren't reliable unless they have been upgraded? What sort of mileage should be expected from the 2.7 motor before major work is needed?

Thanks.