Entering the world of air cooled 911 ownership can be a lifelong dream come true for automotive enthusiasts. The allure of the iconic design, the distinct sound of the engine, and the thrill of driving a piece of automotive history make it an enticing prospect. However, beneath the surface, there are some challenges that every potential air cooled Porsche owner should be aware of.
In this blog post, we will shed light on five lesser-known aspects of air cooled 911 ownership.
This information should help you get ready for the reality of owning these cars along with some of the potential pain points you may face once the excitement of achieving your dream car subsides.
It's Almost Impossible to Find a Trouble-Free Car
Finding a pristine, trouble-free air cooled Porsche is no easy task, especially for a newcomer air cooled 911 ownership. These vintage machines often come with their fair share of issues, ranging from electrical gremlins to mechanical quirks. It's crucial to approach the purchase with caution and be prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs.
Maintenance Costs Can Be Very Painful
Owning an air cooled Porsche is not for the faint of heart or the light of wallet. Regular maintenance, including specialized services, parts, and labor, can quickly add up. Unless you're skilled at DIY repairs, be prepared for high maintenance costs that can dent your bank account. I tell anyone looking to buy their first classic car to set aside 10% - 20% of what you paid for the car for sorting, repairs and elective mods...and hope you don't have to spend that much.
Patience is a Virtue: Long Wait Times for Repairs
When it comes to significant repairs on air cooled Porsches, patience becomes a necessity. Finding a reputable specialist or Porsche mechanic, coupled with the lengthy wait times for parts and the intricacies of the repair process, can result in frustrating delays. Brace yourself for the potential exasperation of waiting for your beloved Porsche to be back on the road shortly after buying it.
Motor and Transmission Rebuilds: A Common Need
One dirty secret of air cooled 911 ownership is their propensity for requiring motor and transmission rebuilds. The high-revving nature of these vehicles, combined with the passage of time and wear, can lead to costly repairs. Be prepared to face the possibility of major engine or transmission work during your ownership experience and hope that it doesn't happen.
There are 2 things you can do during a PPI (Pre-Purchase Inspection) to protect yourself:
1. Conducting both a compression and leakdown test as part of your PPI. Getting solid, consistent results across all cylinders will indicate to you that you'll have many trouble-free miles ahead of you if you decide to purchase the car.
2. Have the mechanic drain the gear oil to check and see if it contains metal shavings or other bits. Yes, you're basically buying the seller a transmission fluid change as part of the inspection process...but trust me, finding metal in the oil BEFORE, not AFTER your purchase can save you tens of thousands in repairs.
Once Bitten, Forever Smitten
Despite the challenges and hidden costs, air cooled 911 ownership is often a lifelong passion. Once you experience the thrill of driving one, the unmistakable sound of the engine, and the raw connection with the road, it's hard to resist the allure of these iconic machines. The desire to own another one can become irresistible, even if it means embracing the dirty secrets and challenges that come with it.
Conclusion:
While air cooled 911 ownership can be a rewarding and exhilarating experience, it's important to be aware of the less glamorous side of ownership. The hidden costs, potential repairs, and long wait times for maintenance are factors that should be taken into consideration. If you're willing to embrace the challenges and costs, an air-cooled Porsche can offer an unparalleled driving experience and an undeniable sense of automotive heritage.