Porsche 964 buyers guide - The most usable air-cooled 911

Buying guide for the Porsche 964. What to look for in the bodywork, rust areas, running gear issues and the model range and values

[@TotallyNotASpy1]

I'm looking at a buyer's guide for my favourite 911 model even though i have no money to spend on it. Hopefully one day...

[@stu4181]

Where the mind thinks the body follows, if you aspire to own one then you are half way there! Definitely my favourite shape classic 911 as well!

[@thomas1942]

If i only watched videos and looked at classifieds ads of cars or things i can afford, i wouldn't use KZbin all that much.

[@christophercolby2202]

40+ years of wanting 996 it finally came! My new wish is a 964

[@nw3622]

964 is my favourite 911. Last of the classic shape. So small by today’s standards, but ever so lovely.

[@DavidMa1992]

wow.... most comprehensive review of a 964... am looking forward to getting a C2 as a project car.... really appreciate the advice!

[@robdunfey979]

Great video Jack! Hope all is going well with the job search, finding your channel was a real 2018 highlight, all the best for 2019!

[@rickdeckard1984]

I’m on the hunt for a 964 and this video sorted out many questions I had, properly laid out and very instructive, thank you sir. I will be buying a manual C2 and then modify it to make a Leichtbau or RS kinda unit (exhaust, Öhlins suspension, short-shift kit, big red Brembo brakes, brake ducts, striped out interior, Recaro bucket seats, momo prototipo steering wheel, cup wheels and mirrors, RSS engine mounts, lighter flywheel, sway bars).

[@iyizjewelsisley3821]

This was one of the best reviews i've seen in a long time!

[@Number27]

Very kind, thanks!!!

[@e36s50b30]

964 are 3.3 - 3.8 Liter. Good video,keep up the great work mate

[@stu4181]

Really informative well made video, chances of me being a 964 are slim to none watching it purely for the love of cars and its still well worth a watch!!

[@Number27]

Thanks Stu!

[@doppler327]

This is an excellent and thorough video, I really appreciate all the work you have done to bring us outsiders this information. 964 is probably the only car I would consider selling my skyline for, such a beautiful ride.

[@Number27]

Very kind of you to say Tanner, enjoy your Skyline!

[@papatorr3669]

Very kind indeed since the 964 can't touch the Skyline performance. Still, the best cars are the ones that you connect with.

[@davew5167]

Fantastic and informative review of the 964. Really enjoyed the video.

[@Number27]

Thanks buddy and happy holidays 🎄

[@roadmantop3769]

Nice video jack, love the colour of yours too 👍🏻

[@kimosabi860]

Great informative vid. 964, C2 would be a dream car. Thanks

[@shankarbalan3813]

Lovely desirable cars. The 356, the 911 and indeed the Boxster S - I like these three best of all Porsches.

[@NineHellHeaven]

I love these cars. I bought a manual Carrera 2 coupe in 2009 for 16k and sold it in 2012 for 21k. I drove a widebody C4 Celebration (aka Jubilee) back to back with my car and the owner and I both agreed the narrow body C2 felt much more nimble and seemed to accelerate faster too. I've had a few other cool cars but this is the one I'll probably go back to as my end game car. Prices are high now but there really is something special about them. I prefer the looks over the 993 too.

[@peteoliver6391]

From what I see, 964 values are rocketing!

[@Jasongy827]

Pete Oliver I saw a excellent condition turbo for like 150k forget the 70s Porsche turbo the one with all metal no plastic

[@ryanmccormick2150]

Cracking video Jack, I love your C4 /C2 ! It's an amazing looking car . The only thing I'd change if I'm totally honest is that I'd have your name replaced with mine on the v5 😉😊

[@Number27]

Thanks my friend!!!

[@tommyelgstrom]

This is by far the most informative and well composed video of a buyers guide for the car of my dreams although you got a few bits wrong but who am I to blame, your only British after all. I’ll admit I’m cheeky but that’s mi moms fault

[@bentremy]

Greeting from Texas. Very informative video. Thank you.

[@roscoecrawford6442]

That was a great video I learned a tremendous amount thank you sir

[@marklesal]

Great video… would have loved to hear about the RS 3.8 …. Now four years on from this prices have skyrocketed

[@davonpointer2310]

Great video Jack. I can't afford one but still one of my fav 911 models.

[@Number27]

Thanks 🙏

[@RobertWilson-td7eb]

If you're in the market for this era Porsche - pay attention, take notes; store this video and play it about 4 times / then U will know 5% of what his excellent knowledge has to offer. Well Done.

[@Number27]

Thanks Robert!

[@kim007250]

Welcome back sir and a Happy xmas

[@Number27]

Thanks Kim, same to you!!

[@Tyler-Durden123]

This was a very interesting and advantegous summary.

[@Number27]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!!

[@papatorr3669]

Appreciate the videos. One thing that stands out to me is that proponents of the 9-3 hands position, chose a preponderance of 9-3-6 spoked steering wheels! Your fingers and the spokes can't attach to the wheel at the same point! The original Porsche wheel design allowed 9-3, 10-2, and a rest spot for relaxed cruising at 6! Superior indeed!

[@papatorr3669]

You said that Momo brings the wheel "forward." I'm convinced that the wheel in your car is brought "rearwards." It's better for people that have disproportionately long legs; your seat is farther back requiring you to lean forward. The Germans are meticulous when it comes to ergonomics. They can't make it for the outliers, so If it doesn't fit, it's you. I'm glad you found a steering wheel you can reach! : )

[@TheGorillafoot]

The rims on that blue 964 looks bad ass with that blue.

[@rikkihall8767]

Very well explained and rather informative. Thank you

[@Number27]

Thanks for watching!!

[@_arthouse]

Thanking you for a bit more info on the 964. I've been lusting after one since i can remember, of all the 911's i really struggle to pick a favourite, but it starts from 964 on, even though my scalextric 911 when i was about 8, was an 80's model. I've ended up with a 997.2 C2 with a manual gearbox, Sport PASM with the LSD, factory short shift etc ... i love it, it feels raw and basic, but i still look at the old air-cooled 964's and 993's ... would you swap out of a 997.2 C2 manual for a 964 or 993 C2/C2S? You're welcome to come and drive it if can have a drive of yours! Mr JWW put an interesting video up recently, a 964 RS lightweight, i never knew they existed and don't think you mentioned it either, around 30 worldwide i think he said, worth a watch ;)

[@JabbaTheHutWasHere]

Im dreaming of a heavy modified widebody C4 ...maybe from Ninemeister - a mean street machine with looks to kill. Really wide tires to fill out of those big arches and a LOW stance. :-). Something for the kids (and me) to admire and letting them know about vintage sportscars. Love this channel - thanks mate :-)

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Keep dreaming.

[@Dae7585]

Just purchased a C2 Coupe tip last week. After watching this I think I’ve done alright! Great video 👍

[@Number27]

Well done and enjoy the c2!!!

[@robbelliii]

Except for the fact you bought a tip.

[@RogerBaileyOnCars]

interesting and well researched information, essential watching for anyone thinking, great video

[@Number27]

Thank you Roger!! Enjoy your Turbo!!

[@straightbusta2609]

Great video, Jack

[@palatinaworks7251]

Yes, you forgot to mention the colours! And you have the best colour for a 964 followed by Sternrubin. Great video!

[@Number27]

Thanks buddy!! Happy holidays!! 🎄

[@papatorr3669]

Not all of us consider Smurf Blue the best color.

[@davidking7160]

I don't know when can have this car Porsche 911 964, but I will try to buy it,it's my dream car.

[@elaristocratana7603]

Thanks for sharing. Great job!

[@joaoencosta2970]

Great video , most informative, thank you !

[@Number27]

Thank you!!

[@mortelk6104]

I agree to the information in this video. Very good and very helpful video imo. Greetings from Germany.

[@Number27]

Thank you and hope it was useful!!

[@matthewalbanese1386]

Fantastic video. Very informative

[@Number27]

Thanks!!

[@ruaraidhmcdonald-walker9524]

Great guide thank you!

[@oibal60]

Bought an Iris Blue 1996 #993 C2 6 speed manny back in 2005 with 19,000 original miles. It's been bulletproof. Yup, I do my own basic maintenance, oil+filter changes too!

[@Number27]

Great to hear Gerald, enjoy your 993 and thanks for watching!

[@modspell]

You've saved enough in service costs to buy yourself a 1985 928S 😍

[@CTP1111]

Thanks for the video, looking at a manual C2 on Saturday :)

[@Number27]

Good luck! Make sure you get a PPI!

[@davidpineda645]

Dayum had one in highschool and it was my gramps car, loved it but it was 2005 and wanted a infiniti g35 so bad. These were selling for 10-16k so i sold mines for 14$ and took a loan out once i turned 18 to get me a infiniti g35. I regret it so much. Even it was so slow the build quality is much better than the infiniti and the paint was awsome. Even kept outside nothing ever happened to it, i didnt even wash it much and it was black. The engine never gave up or left me stranded even tho i redlined it everyday.

[@Number27]

Ah, shame for sure but thanks for sharing your memories!

[@JoJoJoker]

Carrera 4?

[@user-qm4xf4ob4t]

Very good talk mate!

[@count1958]

I have a C4 and I am lovin it.

[@garthc8]

Great review. Did you flare/roll the rear guards? Or is the effect from lowered suspension? Thx

[@FizzyMotors]

hi, thanks for the very informative video. I would like to know what you think about the RHD 964's driving and pedal position? I have heard that it is quite uncomfortable and that the LHD version is more desirable. From the video it looks like you have custom pedals fitted.

[@xeviuus]

great review! im in the market for 964 in the US. if you dont mind me asking, where did you get the steering wheel? looks good with your spec.

[@davidhazzard606]

Hi Jack, an update on the prices of 964's would be a great video. thumbsup!

[@raylanamir3359]

You all probably dont give a damn but does anyone know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account..? I somehow lost my account password. I would appreciate any help you can give me!

[@lawsonpablo8125]

@Raylan Amir instablaster :)

[@raylanamir3359]

@Lawson Pablo i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site through google and im in the hacking process atm. Seems to take a while so I will reply here later with my results.

[@raylanamir3359]

@Lawson Pablo it did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. I am so happy! Thanks so much you saved my account :D

[@lawsonpablo8125]

@Raylan Amir No problem xD

[@btimec5290]

Great overview! thx

[@e36s50b30]

A pillars as well as the front fender joints tend to rust too

[@tim2468]

What a great review!

[@Number27]

Thanks 🙏

[@chrisd5610]

Great vid. V informative! 👍🏽

[@Number27]

Thank Chris!! Hope all good with you buddy!!

[@JDMEXforme]

top 5 most beautiful cars of all time.

[@bispal]

Cheers Jack very informative :-)

[@Number27]

Thanks Dude!

[@datsie14]

I know people are not gonna like that I'm comparing the two, but the prices of these two are practically the same now. I want to get my first Porsche 911 and deciding which one would be the best one to buy first. The 964 c2 or 997 gt3. Which one would you guys rather have if you could only have 1. I obviously wanna have both one day but having trouble deciding which one should it be first. Which one do you guys think would be the better investment as far as potential future value, excitement, road and track satisfaction. Cause It seems like the 964 running costs could get out of control if your not careful compared to a "bullet proof" low miles gt3

[@clivebass7958]

Really good video, thank you.

[@Number27]

Thanks Clive and good luck if you’re buying!

[@clivebass7958]

@@Number27 thanks Jack, im looking so please shout & let me know if you know of any good ones!

[@savariaxa]

Today the best classic Porsche for daily use is the base Cayman 987.1 2.7 245 HP high quality build in Finland and perfect performance they will increase in price in the coming

[@Number27]

I love a Cayman, awesome little cars!!

[@pj9375]

Great video. I learnt a lot from that so thanks. Can you do a similar vid for 993?

[@Number27]

Will do when I get hold of one!

[@xtlmad]

great review, however I have the opposite oppinion on targa's (and that's also what I see on the market): they are more expensive than comparable coupes or cabrios. Even more in C2 and manual gearbox.

[@Number27]

Where?? Not here in the uk or US, maybe Europe? Thanks for watching!

[@robertovillate]

Thanks for a good video. I have owned a 1990 C4 since 1994 that has just had a full engine rebuild at around 90K miles. I probably purchased over $12k in parts, plus another 2-3k in machinist and misc supplies. The oil leak you referred to was also corrected. I believe that an original owner is/was entitled to have Porsche perform that design flaw, and unfortunately I was not the first owner. So that in itself is probably a 5-6k repair and if the car has over 60k miles on it you have to consider doing more work. During my rebuild it was revealed that the cams showed a bit of wear and one expert asked if I had been running synthetic oil. I hadn't but the original owner likely did for the first 35k miles becasue he loved to piss money away. It was recommended to me NOT to use synthetic oil after this rebuild. Another item I thought worth mentioning is that the twin rotors can have malfunction issues and if driven hard for a bit can cause serious and very expensive engine related issues. I also thought worth mentioning is the engine tins. I replaced the entire set (10 or 11 pieces) to the tune of around $2000usd. Some people claim they serve no purpose and remove them, however my sources say that the tins are essential to proper cooling of the engine.

[@robertovillate]

btw...interesting comments about converting to C2. Something to consider. My car has been lowered and has 18"RUFs and operating in snow is treacherous unless you put proper snow tires on it....which I have on original wheels but I just decided not to run on snow because the salts do horrible irreversible damage to the magnesium parts....plus the reduced ground clearance is such that a even small snow drift can get wedged under the car and require a tow. I've found the 4wd to work nicely on wet roads and rough uneven surfaces however.

[@Number27]

Thank you for your interesting and through contribution Roberto!! Enjoy your C4!!!

[@Number27]

Tons defintely essential to cool! Mine are now fibreglass!

[@robertovillate]

@@Number27 cheers

[@robertovillate]

@@Number27 I was not aware that fibreglass tins were available. Makes good sense tho. What is the source/cost?. I actually ordered my tins from Design911 in the UK as that was cheaper than buying here in the USA. And I just checked it was $2600usd! not british pound as previously stated. Fortunately my brother has been helping with the labor. I certainly hope I never have to replace them again in my lifetime!!

[@guysubmarinerguy9387]

Hi Jack, another excellent video - thank you! Just swapped my C4 Targa for a C2 Coupe due partly to watching some of your previous videos. Like you i'm not here to bash C4's or Targas by any means, but I have to say the driving experience/feeling between the C2 and C4 is possibly more pronounced than you or indeed other people make out. I find the C2 much more fun to drive in every respect due to the lightness of the steering and point and shoot feeling when cornering etc. The Coupe obviously feels a little more solid and less noisy but I have to say I think maybe not such a big difference as people make out so take your choice! Do I have any regrets making the swap? Not yet, but snow and more rain maybe just around the corner!!! and then when the Sun comes out next year will I mis that open air motoring ??? Anyway, Air cooled, Water cooled, tin top, open top, who cares - most Porsche are great!!!

[@Number27]

Wow great to hear that you agree with my feelings on the drivetrain differences!! Thanks for watching and enjoy the car!!

[@classiccarssp]

Great Review !

[@Number27]

Thank you sir!

[@darrenwaller7407]

Great information. I’m looking at a 1990 964 C2 Targa tomorrow, manual. Be nice to chat for some more information

[@Number27]

There is a Facebook group called 964 Owners. Loads of people on there who can give you advice!!

[@alag9106]

Great video! Might go looking for a 964 in the future. At the moment I am enjoying my manual 987.1 Cayman S. Would love to see you do a review on one of these one day. Many people say they remind them of the older 911's due to their size and power to weight ratio. Have you ever one a go? Cheers

[@Number27]

Hey, yes I drove and loved one. Older video. If you search for number 27 Cayman it should come up!!

[@robertosanchez4021]

The US Version "Wider Body" Convertibles were named "America Roadster" and only 250 of those were made, very collectible... I own one and they are very nice to drive...

[@Number27]

Hey, that’s right!! Very rare cars. Enjoy yours!

[@henrymacleod6592]

Thanks a lot for that !!!

[@nofinglimit]

Great video, very helpful.

[@Number27]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching!

[@dominikbachi434]

Cool Clip, just C4 Tiptronic.....wasn't available

[@Number27]

Yep true.. my mistake!! Don’t know why I was thinking on the C4 tip!!

[@robertl2856]

Interesting item thanks

[@Felix-ix3qe]

One day I’ll have mine! One day!!!

[@scottymc4435]

Are the 964 turbo speedline wheels highly desirable?

[@kiwifix4687]

Good video

[@iyizjewelsisley3821]

964 is the car!

[@mellusse]

My father has a 964 carrera 2 cabriolet, it's beautiful but i wish he chosed the coupe instead

[@KrustyKlown]

Awesome Wheels !!! My favorite style for that car ... always thought those OEM Cup 1 wheels were the ugliest 911 wheels of all time.

[@TheGorillafoot]

and the 16 inch wheels a lot of 964 came with.

[@peteroliver170]

I would say values have gone the other way as these cars are now classics and mainly used on nice days so the convertible is the most sought after for wind in the hair motoring 1

[@Senna-xi1gr]

Brilliant 👍 Thanks.

[@chrisscott1152]

Only 3 right hand drive Turbo-Look (Wide body) Coupe C4 cars were built, one red, one silver and one green. The green one was ordered by the King of Greece.

[@petroa.9134]

Why did the king of Greece order a rhd car??

[@wilf18]

How do you rate a 964 vs 993 ?

[@hopefulharry]

best try to find one that hasn't had an engine rebuild but has been properly looked after ... these engines easily do 200k when serviced on time and driven regularly

[@modspell]

I had to stop the tape and drink in that anthracite Speedster. Music to my eyes!

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

You were watching this on tape? Beta, VHS or some other variant?

[@michaelc8986]

Are you suggesting a 964 should hav had its engine rebuilt by now?

[@GoAppo]

Do you think 964 might lose value ?

[@ip_freely]

How can you tell a C2 from a C4?

[@backcountrylifemagazine6912]

Very helpful video Jack! I’m in the US (Detroit), wondering if it’s worth looking for a 964 in the UK, as I’m looking for left hand drive. Are lefties easy to find, and are they a bit less costly in the UK? Thanks!!!

[@Number27]

No, i wouldn’t say it’s worth it.. it’ll end up costing you more!!

[@rfracing964]

Nice video, well done. What are these rims you have on your 964? Make/model/sizes?

[@Number27]

They are Work Meisters, 18’

[@713vinh]

Great video Jack! Ever plan on getting a water cooled 911?

[@Number27]

Some day for sure.. the right 996 c2 or a GT3 would be lovely!!

[@8359s]

Are you preparing any next video? They're really good quality, I'd like sth about 944 post 1985.

[@Number27]

Hey, sorry it has been slow recently. I am planning one on the Ferrari 612 next week!

[@erikwiechers8785]

You probably pay a premium for one without a sunroof, they are hard to find.

[@Number27]

Indeed!! I had mine welded up!

[@hopefulharry]

sunroof was standard with no sunroof being the option

[@railmaster.7752]

@@hopefulharry In the US yes but not kn Europe.

[@railmaster.7752]

The 993s are even more useable sporting haudralic tappets!

[@AutoSugar]

Cheers and thanks for another great video! Are you going to get another Lotus??? :)

[@Number27]

Still have he brilliant Evora at this stage!!!

[@HakanWilke]

C4 was in the product line all five years.

[@24hotfuzzJake]

Flunt lights lol sorry couldn't help it, play bk, any many thanks buddy as im looking to get one soon, however still love the 993 so on a spilt with me..?

[@Number27]

Either is great!! Though the flunt lights on a 993 are less traditionally 911 😄

[@steffydog]

Great to know

[@miamimo70]

Turbo 2?

[@BF3blackstar2e]

15:10 Tiptronic c4 targa would be actually quite rare

[@JoelKernasenko]

How extensive are the modification to convert the car into a C2?

[@Number27]

Lots of videos on my channel. If you search for 964 C4 two wheel drive conversion they will come up! It’s fairly extensive

[@johnDe5tr0yer]

Can you give a comparison of C2 to an E36 or E46 M3, how it drives, how different the power to these BMW is?. I cannot reason the price premium on 964 over M3, and since I own a M3 it's hard to ditch something good for potentially better without getting to know 964. That means I would need one extra garage place, which I don't have. And of course, they are not low money.

[@Number27]

Hi, I owned anE46 M3. Great cars but ultimately it is still a saloon (sedan). As such handling is a bit woolly and lacking in precision. 964 is more of a real sports car, has more character, more steering feel...

[@johnDe5tr0yer]

@@Number27 Thank You, your description meets my expectations. Now if somebody could say how it compares to a M3 E30, I would be mostly pleased :)

[@dazbags252]

quality review ,i need you to be with me when i purchase my 964 cabrio

[@Number27]

Thanks!!! Good luck in your purchase!

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

If you want a convertible, buy a Miata, not a 911.

[@jamessandlin4406]

i really like everything about the 964 except the high maintenance cost after several years of research i have had to face the facts they are like really beautiful women not worth the trouble

[@linkedup7346]

Great Lesson, I love these cars but they are so overpriced my love for them has diminished Ill keep my C4 Corvette (manual) and buy any part I need from any auto part store or Chevy dealer. You cant beat the sound of a V8 with Magnaflow mufflers. The handling and driving experience is parallel to an air cooled 911 for a third of the price...