Top Tips for Buying a Used Porsche 911SC (1978-83)

    Cliff Chambers3 June, 2024

    porsche_911_sc_3.0

    Porsche 911 SC . Image: https://en.wheelsage.org/

    Porsche’s 901 model was publicly shown in 1963 at the Frankfurt Motor Show to instant acclaim and legal threats. Peugeot had for decades produced cars with a zero in their designations (203, 402 etc) and was giving no ground to a German interloper. 

    Production versions of the Porsche when released for sale in 1965 would therefore be designated 911 (six cylinder) and 912 (four-cylinder) and retain their identities for more than half a century.

    Early 911s with 2.0-litre engines delivered just 97kW and relied on a responsive chassis and robust design to achieve success in top level competition. Results included consecutive Monte Carlo victories from 1968-70, and a first-up win at Le Mans in 1966 where it won the GT 2.0-litre Class.

    Larger engines would arrive throughout the 1970s, accompanied by a longer wheelbase, wider track and bigger wheels. The 3.0-litre flat six which had been available to Carrera buyers since 1975 was for 1978 standardised across the 911 range in a version called the 911SC. 

    porsche_911_sc_3.0_targa

    Porsche 911 SC 3.0 Targa - Image: https://en.wheelsage.org/

    Due to emission controls, the 50 percent engine capacity increase had minimal effect on performance, generating just a 22kW boost in output over the original 2.0-litre 911S. 

    Those needing performance to hound Lamborghini’s Countach out of autobahn fast-lanes could opt for a 911 Turbo version with its 260km/h top speed and 0-100km/h acceleration in a mind-boggling 5.4 seconds.

    Most Australian-delivered SCs were coupes with the five-speed manual transmission. Versions with lift-out Targa roof panels were available as well and from 1982-83 Porsche added a 911SC Cabriolet.

    Despite improvements to the 911’s performance, Porsche maintained its commitment to durability. The flat floor-pan allowed high speeds to be sustained over rough roads and dents to the underside didn’t do any serious harm. In 1976 the 911 become the world’s first high-performance car to be built from galvanised steel, helping prevent minor damage in instances where perforated paint might otherwise promote rust.  

    porsche_911_sc_3.0_targa

    Classic Interior - Image: wheelsage.org

    The shape which had barely changed in more than a decade also began to evolve. Impact-absorbing bumpers were fitted to all versions and wheelarch flares became more pronounced. The ‘whale-tail’ rear spoiler introduced to help tame 911 Turbo handling had by 1978 become optional on other models in the 911 range. 

    porsche_911_sc_3.0_coupe_weissach_edition

    Weissach Edition - Image: wheelsage.org

    The SC was Porsche’s most successful variation on the 911 theme. Almost 60,000 of the cars were built from 1977-83 and they are the 911 you are most likely to find in today’s second-hand market. 

    Values since the Covid-19 Pandemic have surged, pushing the price of some outstanding cars past $170,000. They don’t all cost that much though; coupes needing cosmetics and showing 250-300,000 kilometres are still available at less than $100,000. 

    Things To Watch Out for When Buying a Used Porsche 911SC (1978-83)

    • Despite galvanising, rust can appear around window apertures and wheel arches

    • Have a specialist check for poorly executed repairs

    • Valve train noise due to failing timing chain adjusters

    • Corroded heat exchangers

    • Torn grease boots on driveshafts

    • Sagging front suspension

    • Damaged or leaking Targa roof seals

    Valuation Timeline Porsche 911SC (1978-83)

    🛠️ Timeline

    1985
    $40,000
    1995
    $55,000
    +37.50%
    2005
    $47,500
    -13.64%
    2010
    $37,000
    -22.11%
    2014
    $40,000
    +8.11%
    2019
    $90,000
    +125.00%
    2024
    $150,000
    +66.67%
    911 SC Coupe

    Investment Rating

    7 / 10

    Cliff Chambers

    Writer & Head Valuer

    At age 14, surrounded by stacks of motoring magazines from the local junk shop, Cliff Chambers was warned by a concerned mother that he would ‘Never get anywhere knowing a lot about old cars.’  Seventeen years later when his definitive book, Making Money From Collectable Cars was published, she was proud to be proven wrong.

    That was in 1987, but Cliff’s life was already revolving around all things automotive. From working part time in a panel shop while at university, he moved to motor industry consultancy roles and managing a Championship winning rally team.

    During the 1990s he joined the classic vehicle insurance industry, at the same time becoming a prolific writer for magazines and motoring websites. Then came his ongoing contribution as one of the country’s leading vehicle valuers.

    Away from work, automotive events and objects remain prominent in Cliff’s world. He has owned more than 40 cars now considered ‘classic’ and within his collection of motor-related items there remain some of those magazines acquired as a fact hungry teen.

    Cliff brings to Retro Rides a blend of unique industry skills and a love of vehicles that will become more obvious with every contribution he makes to the site.

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