While I’ve never been a fan of 911s that are converted to look like later models, this 1980 911 SC is doing a solid job at imitating a later-production widebody. Said to have been converted to a high level of fit and finish, the seller also says it is turnkey reliable, ready to drive anywhere. Find it here on eBay with a $35,000 Buy-It-Now.
Now, I have to admit, the conversion did a good job of fooling me. The widebody fenders coupled with the Cup-style alloy wheels are a great combination, as is the light blue paint with the navy top. The remains of the 1980 SC Targa are difficult to spot given all of the efforts made to hide the 911’s original form, but it’s harder to discern whether in the current market an unmolested SC Targa would be worth more.
Inside, the look is classic 911, which remained largely consistent from one year to the next. I suspect that’s what made these conversions so popular was due to the lack of change that occurred to the basic 911 recipe over the years. The seller claims the original leather bucket seats have been preserved by skeepskin seat covers and that the stereo system has been designed to allow for comfortable listening even with the top down.
The 3.2L mill and transmission have both been professionally rebuilt and have less than 20,000 miles on them. In addition, the seller has recently had a brand-new RennAire A/C system installed to the tune of $9K. Overall, it would appear some serious money has been spent on this converted 911, but I still question whether it will ever appreciate further or always be considered simply a modified car that’s fun to drive. I’m torn on this one: I love the original SC, but this looks like heaps of fun, too.
Fantastic cars, however, and ugly is such a harsh word. Let’s say, to me, these are about the most unappealing looking cars made. How can someone say a 1960 Rambler American is ugly, and like this?
Well… now that you mention it. Not tremendously, stomach-churningly but, yes, there is a bit of the ug about these… HS girlfriend once said, quote, “Old cars are ugly.” I liked her anyway and came to realize that automotive beauty is often indeed in the eye of the beholder.
Wow, you’d have to admit that you’re a member of a very special minority as far as your opinion. What do you then consider attractive as far as automotive design?
Anything British or 50’s and 60’s US cars. I know I may be on thin ice with those views, and I rarely call something ugly, like saying someones daughter is ugly, it’s going to ruffle some feathers, and I think the fact that it goes 100 mph in 3rd gear, will make some overlook it’s unpleasing ( to me) styling. It’s no ’63 Riviera.
I couldn’t sworn that Porsche didn’t come out with a 911 convertible until 1983.
Each to their own … the 911, and this style is probably my favorite car of all time.
Would anyone have done these modifications to a 911 with a pristine body?
Steve R
Yes, lots of perfect ones were converted. It was a trend in ‘89 onwards to convert to 964.
why?
Well, it’s not a “Miami Vice’d” slantnose..that should count for something. I do like the color and it being cabriolet, but most of the Porsche’aholes (or is it Porsche’aphiles)would turn up their noses at that
I hate these conversion updates on the 911’s. What was wrong with the original styling? I purchased a ’71 911 before the air cooled boom and it was updated to look like a 74-89 model, I couldn’t convert it back quick enough. The 964 is my least favorite of the 911’s, even more than the 996’s.
Personally i like it , my brother in law had an original 911SC targa