Great Options: 1983 Porsche 911SC Cabriolet
While we don’t always think of the convertible version of a car as being the most desirable configuration, the air-cooled 911 market has laid waste to the notion that there’s any variety of this sports car that doesn’t have a fan base. Of course, the options can make all the difference regardless of hard or soft top, and this clean 1983 Porsche 911 SC 3.0 Cabriolet listed here on eBay checks multiple boxes owing to its generous equipment list. It also sports a very pretty (and somewhat rare) color combination of Ruby Red Metallic over a Sand Beige interior. Bidding is at $21,600 with no reserve.
The interior features one of the more desirable options you can ask for in a 911, which the “Sport” bucket seats that feature generous side bolster support (and also just look killer). The color scheme is more attractive than I would have thought based on the name “Sand Beige”, landing somewhere between gray and tan. The 911 sports what I believe is an OEM but not necessarily factory-installed steering wheel, but it’s a desirable upgrade nonetheless. The seller notes that between 1995 and 2021, he has receipts totaling $40,000 in maintenance, so it’s clear the interior condition is no accident as it was clearly loved by a previous owner.
The 3.0 flat-six engine and transmission have both been rebuilt, and that alone is a major selling point of this pretty air-cooled droptop. The SC-spec 911s have long been thought of as one of the last “bargain” air-cooleds, and it really is a versatile platform with all of the classic 911 must-have boxes checked. From the looks to the sound to the available options, the SC is a smart buy no matter the configuration. Obviously, the later cars have the much-improved gearbox, so you do have to deal with a somewhat rudimentary shifting experience; still, most owners will tell you it’s hardly an impediment to enjoying a classic 911.
This 911 features a whale-tail rear spoiler, which in my eyes, ruins the lines of the car. This is the first change I would make if this were my 911, as the appearance would improve instantly and this Ruby Red example would have even more eyeball appeal. The whale tail really should remain a Turbo-only feature, as the wider rear haunches of cars like the 930 and the 3.6 just complement the extreme width of the spoiler far better. At the moment, bidding seems downright reasonable for this car, as I would expect it to be deep into the $30s given the features, maintenance, and overall condition. Does it seem like a potential bargain to anyone else?
Auctions Ending Soon
1977 Datsun 280ZBid Now22 hours$600
1969 Ford MustangBid Now2 days$500
1965 Ford Falcon Station WagonBid Now5 days$1,000
2002 Jaguar XK8 ConvertibleBid Now6 days$100
Comments
My second 911 was a ruby red 84 Carrera coupe with beige leather. I also fall into the no tail category unless it’s a 930 or factory turbo look. Looks like someone will get a nice driver. I also like the feel of the later G50 transaxles but a sorted 915 transaxle can shift nicely as well. I do prefer the later Motronic over the CIS injection for drivability and reliability. This is a non A/C car which might be a hinderance to some but with a convertible driving top down on nice days one will quickly forget.
I agree. That whale tail bites the big one!