Buyer's guide (964 C4)

Baard · Nov 14th 2002

Hello to all of you! I do apologize in advance for not writing in German (I do quite understand but cannot write well)

I am thinking about buying a 964 C4 Porsche soon and was wondering if:
1.is this regarded a a good 911 model, also any important differences between 1990-1993 models.
2. what shall I look for when buying a C4?
3. are there other 911 models (older or newer) that you would recommend in the 20-30 K Euro price group?

Thanks very much in advance and best regards,

baard

**Andreas Bippes** · Nov 14th 2002

Hello and welcome to the PFF!

Just have a look above into the Bastelecke / F A Q - there you can find links to some good sites, e.g.

http://home.arcor.de/s-g-e/nbaum3.htm
http://www.dialog-911.de/index.html

hope this helps you!

Baard · Nov 14th 2002

Hi and thanks very much Andreas, great information!
Looking at the various info, it appears to me that the 964 is somewhat unreliable and expensive to maintain, especially pre-92 models. Is this the impression you have also? In what respect would a 993 be a "better" car?
Sorry if the questions sounds stupid but I am totally new to Porsche (used to Lotus, MG, Triuphs, Jags etc)

Thanks again,

Baard

**Andreas Bippes** · Nov 14th 2002

No problem!
The 993... I don't know much about the difference, maybe someone else can help.

@all
Also Leute, 911er-Spezialisten hier, würde mich nämlich auch interessieren, wo die Vor- und Nachteile zwischen dem 964 und dem 993 liegen!

Bernd · Nov 15th 2002

I would try to find a 993, the reasons are:

- significantly improved handling
- hydraulic valve lifters
- last model of the air-cooled-911-era

Olaf964 · Nov 15th 2002

If money doesn't count a 993 is a valuable option. The difference in engine is the hydraulic valve play compensation (Whereas the 964 requires manual control as all 911 before). And a new rear axle which increased driving stability.
In my opinion the step from 964 to 993 in terms of technique was more evolution where the step from an 88 Carrera to a 964 was a revolution:
ABS, Power steering, 4WD, double ignition, 3600cc (+400), 250 HP (+33 with catalytic conversion) coiled springs instead of torsion bars etc.
So the "new era" started with the 964.
If you have decided for a 964, you should look for a model 91 or younger because some modifications where launched with MY91. A new intake manifold some new cylinder gaskets and of course the airbags.
A good English discussion you also find at
rennlist
pelican parts forum
smartgroups 964Porsche

Regards Olaf