This 1991 Porsche 911 Cabriolet used to be one of the cheapest air-cooled models you could buy. The 964 chassis was frowned upon, with the early models having numerous teething issues that made them the black sheep of the modern 911 era. No more, as everything air-cooled has become a commodity, whether the quality of the driving experience justifies the price tag. This 1991 model is listed here on eBay with over 100,000 miles and bidding to just under $38,000 with no reserve. The 911 is located in Moorpark, California.
For a hot minute, I thought I would try and find a 964 to add to my garage. Now, even though for years this generation of the 911 was hardly the favorite, I always liked it as I felt the shape was the purest expression of the 911. The more squared-off fenders were reminiscent of 911 generations prior, while the updated rear end treatment made the car decidedly more modern. The speed-activated spoiler was one of the coolest things I had ever seen, and Will Smith piloting a 3.6 Turbo in the original Bad Boys film was perhaps one of the most enjoyable five minutes I’ve ever spent in the movie theater. In short, I love this era of the 911, warts and all.
But it is well known that the first runs of this new generation had plenty of flaws, and the four-wheel-drive model was particularly lacking in driver engagement. I spoke with a friend this morning who knows this era well, and he referred to the Carrera 4 as having one of the numbest driving experiences he’s ever seen in a Porsche. Now, thankfully, this is a rear-wheel-drive Carrera 2, so the steering feel should be closer to the classic 911 experience in terms of the chassis response, but it’s still a convertible model which historically is just barely above the Targa in terms of desirability. However, all that has changed, and it’s not surprising to see this one approaching $40,000, especially with what looks like a very nice interior.
The seller reports this 911 has been in long-term ownership and that is has been well-mainainted. It supposedly has no running issues at the moment, but even an engine that needs to come out for a full re-seal can seemingly run well. More information is certainly needed, but the buyers vying for the chance to own this 964 convertible likely aren’t too concerned about maintenance records – after all, this is one of the more affordable ones on the market right now at the current price tag, and black on black with the preferred five-speed manual is as good as it’s going to get for a convertible model. What do you think – is this once-unloved 911 worth the price?
The 964 is when the classic 911 grew up. Having personally driven several they are a real joy to drive. Much more refined than the 89 models smooth clutch action, even better shifting, better brakes, cold A/C and other creature comforts. Just don’t get a tiptronic car they are horrible. Also remember the company Singer uses this chassis as their reimagined cars. I know the 90 Carrera 2 cars suffered from the lack of cylinder head gaskets causing leaks but those have all been corrected by now.
Could not disagree more with the tiptronic comment. I drive one daily and it is super fun in traffic and shifting around the gears.
My hard working, brilliant nephew is pulling the trigger on ordering a brand spanking new 911 Turbo S. When it arrives Uncle Mike just might have to buy an airline ticket to visit him at the other end of the country. 😉
sigh…..a 911 was always on my hope to have list, but sadly they have risen in price so much faster than my income it is not to be,,,,,,,
The 964 still has the characteristics of the 911 of old but has refinements that make it the ideal 911 for the enthusiast to enjoy and not feel gapped by the more modern variants. The engine had significant power over the previous generation 911 with the twin plug heads and couple that with small aftermarket additions like air intake, exhaust, and a chip another 15 + Hp could be had with zero reduction in drivability. The OE Bilstein’s were a bit harsh, so a set of Koni’s really improves the compliance. An upgrade to 17” wheels like “Cup” style wheels goes along way to selecting an ideal summer performance tire. This is the way my Guards Red on Black 964 is equipped and I would not have it any other way. So, it is no wonder this variant is so well regarded, and the prices continue to escalate.
Luv the guards red color…always wanted a guards red 928.