1982 Porsche 911SC 'Targa' Coupe

Description

Porsche’s 911 is an automotive icon, with a legion of fans around the world and is still going strong more than five decades after the first example rolled off the production line in Zuffenhausen. Thanks to years of constant evolution, the original 911 was honed into a precision driving tool, but the basic recipe remained constant throughout. The flat six grew by degrees (to 3-litres by the mid-1970s), the wheelbase was increased to improve handling and the biggest styling change took place in 1974, when impact bumpers were introduced, but the 911 still looked, sounded and drove much the same as it did back in 1964. The SC made between 1979 and 1983 is arguably the last 911 to embody the character of the original series, a model largely devoid of the electronic aids and gizmos that increasingly found their way into Porsche’s finest for the remainder of the 1980s and beyond. The SC benefited from having a Thyssenn zinc-coated galvanised bodyshell, seriously reducing the risk of rust and the use of high quality materials - combined with excellent build quality - ensure they have generally survived the passage of time in good condition, particularly when properly maintained. The 3-litre engine saw a small drop in power (to 180 bhp at 5500rpm) but new camshafts resulted in a flatter torque curve and greater flexibility, while a new crankshaft and larger main and big-end bearings ensured mechanical longevity as well. Minor tweaks saw much of this power restored and by 1981 the flat six was rated at 204 bhp at 5900rpm, with peak torque increased as well. The braking system was improved thanks to the adoption of a servo as standard and the five-speed 915 gearbox was also standardised for the first time. The 911’s interior came in for some improvements as well, with electric windows and air conditioning both included as standard for all markets. The SC represents perhaps the best value 911 to wear the famous Zuffenhausen badge. To quote a recent report in the magazine Octane, “Find a good one and you will have a dream sports car, not an extravagant nightmare. Buy one before everybody else wakes up”.