Another cracking good PCA model guide video with Nathan Merz . Nothing better than playing one of these model guide videos on the big TV screen in the den.
Tis the season to be thankful. One thing that I'm thankful for for sure is having access to, and the benefit of another of Nathan's videos. When you're constantly being targeted or hounded by people with narrow self-serving agendas, it is so refreshing to have access to really factual information like this that is being offered up to support and preserve the values that these unique cars provide. Thank you Nathan and thank you PCA.
Carrera 3.2 is my pick. IMHO when you buy a 40 or 50 year old Porsche it’s all about the mechanical connection, the early air-cooled engines and truly enjoying what for that period was a great handling car. I love a powerful Porsche like the next guy, but when I want spirited even cerebral driving that connects with all the senses, it’s an early gen Porsche. Great video, I especially like the driving portion.
Nathan great video you nailed it on each Porsche… I know firsthand what you were saying for each car because I own all 3 and I have a love for all three of them. And I have a modern turbo Porsche and to be honest with you the 3.2 is the one that I go to? I love her.
@@JeanneR-m7s I have a 993 and 3.2 and the 3.2 is the one I choose most often. I get in the 993 and think, what an amazing car! And when I get in my 991.1 I think, this is a space ship! The 3.2 demands more work and when you get it right so much more reward than any more modern car.
Nathan, Thank you very much for breaking down the differences. The 993 you drove is EXACTLY like the one I recently purchased - ‘97 / C4S, guards Red - beige interior. I do have a huge grin every time I see and drive it and feel so fortunate to have it in my garage. Merry Christmas to you and the rest of the PCA team.
I ran into Nathan by chance on a hotel shuttle at PHX airport a few months back.....he was gracious and took the time to talk Pcars, German classic car shows, and look at my SC photos...called the color right away lol.....he is as friendly as he is knowledgeable....thanks Nathan even on that short ride
I love all air-cooled 911s! Five months ago, I bought a 964 C2. I love the blend of classic and modern, so I was torn between the 993 and the 964 for a while. In the end, I chose the one that leans slightly more toward the classic side. Nathan's advice during this process was incredibly helpful-thank you!
Thanks for the video, and indeed, what makes the 3.2 so outstandingly appealing is its simplicity, combined with that non assisted direct feel. What I almost never hear about the 993, is what I very much appreciate about it, that it feels very precise in its reaction to steering input.
@@theodoriller was the suspension stock or modified? My old 996 became a different car (massively for the better) with the right setup on it. I think they are an insanely good entry level Porsche.
@@SRLang The car was brand new and stock. 996.2 Carrera manual. Compared to the aircooled there was no feel. The car drove very good with stocksuspension, that was not the problem. It lacked feel. It was as exciting as a VWGolf in my view in these days. GT3 was different. I did not liked the sound, I liked how it handled and geard. This is what I meant: good car but in my opinion not much excitemend. Same with the 992.1 Carrera S. Perfect but boring. GT3s a differnt story.
Thank you for the early Christmas present! MoMerzisMoBettah! I love how watching Nathan's video has made me a much more rounded fan of the brand. I definitely find myself skewing older in re model appreciation...but that may also be due to my "caviar taste and peanut butter wallet."
Watching and listening to a new video by Nathan before the kids get up for Christmas is an incredible gift. I didn’t know @nathanmerz was Santa! I wonder if his sleigh looked different this year? Naturally aspirated or turbocharged?
Porsche Carrera 3.2 1989 the most flawless air cooled engine Porsche has ever built also the 911 G model has the best design compared too 964 and 993 the real Porsche fans know that these are the facts !
Thanks for another great video. I went from a 997 RS to a 3.2. Talk about a huge gap! 😂 I do love it tho. Not fast by any means but it’s an amazing driving experience!!
Great video. I owned a 3.2 Carerra for 4 years in the early 2000's and loved the classic way it drove and it proved to be very reliable. I wasn't blown away by the performance as previously I had a 944 Turbo which the previous owner had modified (producing around 300 horsepower) so felt much quicker than the 3.2 Carerra even it it didn't sound as good. I followed this up with a 996 GT3, which was the most exciting car I've owned by some margin and very much missed. Love Porsches.
"Less treble more bass"... That's a good way to describe automotive sounds; Porsche seems to have mastered this. I prefer "more treble less base" at the top end; reminiscent of F1.
Mr. Merz, great video, as always, on Porsche's iconic 911 series. Now how about serving us up some 928 in 2025. Wishing everyone in PCA nation a Happy New Year!
Great video, thank you! I picked up an '87 3.2 in the same color combo as in the video this past spring and I love it. Agree on the comments about the floor mounted pedals, initially I was convinced that my feet were too big or the pedals were too close together. I don't even think about it now, took a few drives to get used to and it's such a wonderful car to drive. Hopefully a 993 is in my future at some point as well.
@truebluemiata that would make a great video. In basic summary 996.1 thru 997.2 drive more similar than dissimilar with the bigger variance coming via the various trim levels (S, 4S, GTS) of the normally aspirated cars vs. 996/997/.2, which makes sense as they are built on the same basic platform. Obviously the biggest changes are aesthetic and like the above cars that is highly preferential, for me of those cars I like the 996.1 Aero Coupes and the 997.2 GTS4 the best looks wise, everyone else will have their own view!
I've had my SC targa for 40 years. I do some of my own work on it. I also own a 993 C4S and a 996 Turbo S. Despite having the least amount of hp, there are days I walk by the 993 and the turbo just to drive the 180 hp SC. I've improved the performance of the SC by installing SSI headers and a dual out exhaust; and improved the 993 by changing the gearing. It's better at the speeds I drive.
I'm from Norway and I got to borrow a well set up, early euro 3.2 for a whole day in the countryside on winding roads on a summers day. I was so charmed by the combined experience. Never felt slow or boring, just charming and forgiving. Not very sharp but huge fun. And the greenhouse is just perfect, the view is all directions is great and all the controls feel natural and where you'd want them to be. Ive driven 993 C4s which feels gruntier, but I own 2 TVRs from the 90s and they are like 2400lb and 350hp, so any 911 up to 997s will just feel dead slow compared. But the TVRs can't beat the 911s on comfort and build quality feel. I want to build up a 80s 911 with 70s small bumpers etc and a 3.6 or bigger and revvier engine. I'd love to start with a 964 but they are so expensive...
As an owner of 1970 911 for nearly 50 yrs, I relate to your comment, if you could only have one 911. I've updated almost everything. All aluminum S cam short stroke 2.5, using 2.7 Euro P&C's on a 67 case with 40ADI Webers on Hi rise ported manifolds and heads with heavy duty springs. It has great low end torque but revs like a motorcycle. As for suspension: Aluminum banana arms,74 carrera front with deep 6" w/205 & 8" rear w/225 x15" alloy rims. Doors and rear flares from 82 SC plus complete camel leather interior too. I've make several other improvements, 96 mirrors, 94 rear decklid, short shift kit, oem S bumper & custom rear metal fab with reflector. All Porsche no after market parts. I can send a few photos if interested.
Very interesting indeed. My pick would be the 993 with an aftermarket exhaust. But every generation 911 interests me. A 911 must enhance its engine sound because it is part of its DNA. 😎
I think the all three have their strong points, looks wise. 964 looks best from the front, 993 rear is absolutely superior looking, it's very underwhelming on the 964... and the G-body is the most traditional. I'm a 996 4S owner and if I had the money I'd probably go for the 993. But I'd love to own all three.
@@C4S911 Thanks. I own one and I love the rear. But if I'm being 100% objective I think 993 S is the best looking rear. But 996 4S is definitely the best looking water cooled rear. Cheers mate.
I would agree with both your points, and I do indeed love the 993 C2S rear end, but back (20yrs ago) when I bought, I decided on the 964 Turbo, of which the rear end is the best ever, imo. I absolutely fell in love with those extra wide hips.
@@Rushwind100 Absolutely man. 964 Turbo rear looks amazing. Personally I think the standard 964 sloped, narrow rear is very underwhelming but the Turbo version absolutely corrects that.
I'm a big fan of Nathan's videos . To me he's THE expert of 911's and I learned a lot about all the differences between all the models and production years from him. What I don't understand is ,especially with the 3.2 which has no power steering, that you hold the steering wheel at the bottom , and with all 3 cars that you turn the steering wheel with your hand at the inside of the wheel. One of the first things they said to me at the driving school ( more than 60 years ago) and later on at a skid course is to hold your hands in the ten to two position and never turn the wheel from the inside.I myself have a 3.2 since 2015 which is now perfect after a LOT of restoration work and I love the analog feel that you don't have in modern cars. And you don't have the distraction of all kinds of screens and beeps and lights, you just drive and have all the control yourself. I also have a 914 that has even better handling, but regrettably not a comparable engine. Happy Newyear from Belgium!
@slotty008 thanks for the kind words! You are correct, for performance driving 10 and 2 are ideal, I have learned however that when filming these videos if my right hand is at 2 o''clock that my hand takes up a huge portion of the screen with the camera dash mounted pointed towards me and it also blocks the gauges for viewers when filmed from the passenger angle, so I keep my hands lower when filming.
@@nathanmerz I already thought so :) The cars you proposed look as if they come straight from the dealer : fabulous, so it would be very strange if they would start to rattle.
When I was 6yo, my mom and her best friend both had VW beetles…i absolutely loved the drive, sound, and smell of leather. Those cars triggered my lifelong love of the automotive world. About 15yrs ago I did a 2-day Porsche driving experience. I was teased by a couple partcipants when I quipped that I preferred the sound of the 997, over 997S, because its engine sound reminded me more of that old beetle. We all did agree that the most fun had during the class was when doing autocross event in an automatic 986… so power is just not a priority in these cars. I’d love to own an older 911 i could wrench on myself. What should I look for, and where should I start?!
Great video and excellent comparison of the three choices facing most people new to air-cooled 911s. I bought a 1988 944 Turbo new and daily drove it for 19 years and when it finally wore out I got a used 1991 964 and fell in love with the 964. I sold it (it had 150K miles and a half cage and had been a track car) for something easier day to day and got another 1991 964 with only 50k miles that was very well kept. I still have it and have kept it in mint condition and kept it up mechanically too. I have Bilstein PSS10s on it which are stiff and the ride height is RS height but otherwise it's stock. I agree completely with your tire comment - the 964 on 16" with 205 up front is very nimble at low speed, much more so than the 17"s IMHO. The stiffer lower suspension settings make it more like the designers probably intended. I've driven two SCs and owned one for a year while deciding whether to collect one but decided that I'd rather find an early 70s one as you suggested. I recently found the last 901 ever made which was sold new in Canada and was with the original owner until a couple of years ago. It's being restored with by the new owner (not me) and I hope to get to drive it when it's finished. I'm sure it will be a very different experience. I also agree with comments about the 996. My first 996 drive was a low mileage Turbo with an automatic transmission and I almost bought it. The Turbo engine and the automatic really worked well together. I regret not getting it when they were quite cheap. It was a totally loaded car that stickered when new for $159,000!
I have owned a 930 Speedster, 964 Speedster, 964 Jubilee, 964 Turbo 3.6, 993 Turbo, 997 GT3 RS 4.0 and I have to say that my 718 GT4 RS is better than all of them. If you can't afford a GT4 RS then go for a 981 Spyder or 981 GT4 as they are both great. If it is just a weekend car then I love the look and sound of the 930 Turbo with the G50 gearbox.
Nathan…love your videos…I have an ‘88 3.2…it was a runner when purchased (110K+ miles), and it was loved into an OEM+++…my version of a pseudo club sport (modified)…it would be fun to see you review cars that have been played with.
Great video, super informative. I was going to ask how do you find or make the opportunity to try older 911s? The closest I ever got was riding shot gun in a 993 Carrera RS for about 5 seconds :(
I have an 84 911 (my first 911 as of July) i have had the trouble finding direction regarding the heat controls on the dash and between the seats. Can someone advise the use of the levers?
I might be atypical in that I am a lifelong Porsche fan but never personally owned any air cooled examples, since my very first 911 was a 996TT. I've now owned quite a few water cooled 911s including some very special GT cars, but happen to sell air cooled 911s from time to time through my business. The appeal of an air cooled 911 to me has much less to do with performance and much more to do so with feel and sound. It's akin to why we like precision watches, fine jewelry, or other luxury goods that are made well. Nothing compares to the sound of an air cooled 911 door closing, and this love of mechanical precision certainly goes a lot further than that as it defines nearly every interaction with the car. For this guy at least, the 993 is my easy pick from this trio as I do really prefer it's styling, useability, and overall refinement, but to echo Nathan I will also say that there are no bad Porsche 911s. Buy the best example you can, keep it mechanically correct, and drive until it hurts from smiling so much. They all provide smiles that are off the chart compared to so many other cars, and so we'd always choose to own 911s! Thanks so much for another fun and informative video.
I'm a G-body guy, I aquired my first drivers license in the SC days and I'm just partial to it for that reason, it was my dream car. I know this will ruffle feathers but I've never liked the looks of the 964. 993's are without a doubt starting to grow on me.... so integrated. Very interested in this (posting before watching) video as I'd like to purchase an air-cooled car to keep my 911-50 company.
I’m with you, the 964 bumper is SOOOO HEAVY AND BIG, and I can’t do the 993 lights--> bumper though the shortening of the bumper is great. The 911 is by far the most perfect car ever, but it was never perfect and that is what is great about it, it’s approachability
I agree 100% for the narrow body N/A 964, but 20yrs ago when I drove them all, I fell in love with, & bought the wide hips (& power!) of the 964 Turbo. Love every angle of that car (better than my 993 C2S & 997.2 GT3 too).
Great video. Just what I needed while I contemplate my Porsche "upgrade" to something a little newer. My current fleet is a 67S and a 73S. They are both keepers. Fascinating mechanically and with a screwdriver and a timing light I can keep them going. I've driven all three of your subject cars and they all left me wanting more. I liked the 3.2 best but could grow to like the others I suppose. Thinking back on my test drives what I missed was the very light steering and the importance of good technical driving in the curves. Especially in my 67. I felt more removed from the action. Maybe I'm just a fan of primitive motoring. I live at 6K feet in the mountains and find Porsche exceptional mountain cars. Just like the factory intended. I'm leaning toward a 964x4
Thanks for sharing your experience. A 964 C4 is an interesting angle for an addition to your garage, it’s something different to the 964 C2 you’ve driven and the 67 and 73 you already own. And kind of its own thing considering how the AWD changed for the 993… Projekt 964 is fun to drive, for what it’s worth.
All three have there own character in spades. .. Old school 911s all the way. .. There a sharp blue suit. Thank you for the 911 evolution snapshot.! .. 911 owners are smiling ...
I miss my '96 GPW Carrera...don't miss the SAI fault codes which were a hassle in California for smog checks back in the day. Don't know if a fix for that has been developed, but many times I wished I had a '95 instead of my '96 (minus the basket handle) since the '95's didn't record those faults. Great video!
@jasonpermenter6765 I will put that on my to do list: 930 3.0 liter (75-77) vs 78-89 3.3 (with plenty of nuance for early vs. late, ROW vs US, 89 G50) and 964 3.3 and 3.6.
@@nathanmerz please , hardly anything out there on them. Wanting to learn as a relatively new owner of a 1991 . I’ll donate mine got a video if needed .😄
Nathan - great video - I happen to be an "accidental" owner of a 1982SC; I live in the Bellevue area - not too sure what to do with it (improve it or sell). My brother bought it a couple years ago from the original owner but got bored with it and gave it to me. I noted this video says the location was from Kirkland, so I don't know if you offer consulting services. The car is a Targa, and while it runs -needs cosmetic work for sure and no doubt some engine help as well. Would be great to get some expert opinion on the reality of what this might look like going forward versus selling as is.
Absolutely fantastic video ! Thank you very much for sharing all your thoughts. So, if a 3.2 is 30%, the 964 is 80% of a modern car's AC... What would be a 993, 90%? And what would be a 3.2 with an aftermarket like Griffiths' , 40, 60, 70 %? Thanks again for sharing !
964 and 993 are the same. The Griffiths system is great, a fairly involved install and $$ but if you need functional AC is a 911 prior to the 964 it’s worthwhile. Still not like a modern car but better than the OEM setup in the 964/993.
@ntm4122 Thank you very much 🙏🏿. I have heard that even with Griffiths' AC, the 3.2 would not get as good as a 964 or 993. Very nice and reassuring to hear otherwise 👌🏿. Thank you very much again. I really like my second 3.2 for all the above-mentioned reasons you stated, the only "drawback" with this and the previous one have been the AC because it is hot in Texas most of the time 😂.
Vry Great explanation of one&half decade of evolution of porsche 1984to1999 of porsche 3.2-964-993 models ,mor imp showing driving experiences of doze models on street giving fans porsche enthusiasts real hand knowledge to choose a perfect porsche based on deir needs & preferences,vry nicely kept alot of porsches proves reliability of porsche can reach to multiple generations proven fact
The is issue with the 964 is and will remain supply vs demand. A very good insider I know that work for Singer UK arm let me know they are collecting and buying any 964 so long the chassis is salvageable, no matter the damage it will be bought. So the 964 will always hold value because of these.
In Europe they use a different system for assigning model years that in the US, here the manufacturer designates the model year whereas in Europe most contries assign it based upon the date of first registration. So for example a "1990" Model Year US 964 could have in fact been built/first sold in 1989 but was designated a "1990" whereas in most of Europe it would have been titled at a 1989. As a general rule in this era, Europe got these cars earlier than we did in the US as well.
993s are unique ride….bridge the old with the new….964 were produced in less quantities and were more expensive than the 993 when introduced…..993 coupes are selling over $100k regardless of mileage….
Thanks Nathan for another great one. From the Carrera 3.2 side of the house, I'd say that when it's time to rebuild, the 3.4l kits out there help to split the difference in power along with a cam and tune. Absolutely zero complaints with mine after a mechanical restoration that I finished a bit over 2 years ago.
Hi Nathan, I love all your videos. I just bought my first classic. 1988 Targa. I would like to have it fully serviced and restored as much as I can afford. I live in San Diego, CA. Anyone you trust down here to do a good job? Thank you!
It's not just a lack of comfort due to poor heat or AC in the 3.2, but a terrible defroster. Be careful in humid or cold temps. Still miss all of my SCs...
My 86 3.2 has AC as std so the heat & aircon are more than acceptable... just make sure it is kept serviced... good gas & NO leaks in hoses. Just dont expect it to be to same level of 2025 Chinese manufactured rubbish.
First time visit. I will be buying a Porsche 911 but have no idea the right one. Would be a first time buyer. Might be a few years from now but trying to understand all of them. I'm also 48 and had the 80's 911 whale tale on my wall for years as a kid. Not sure I want that one. I think the 95 and up style is more my like now days. Again not sure. I do like the 996 as well, water cooled.
Excellent fitst part of the video. Also information in second part is interesting and useful. But it lacks spirited driving. Should you do this, you would have to abandon American (Buick & Co.) holding of the steering wheel. There is much more in driving all three Porsche generations presented here.
@HoleLeeAutomotive-rb2qs I am a BIG fan of the F-body, with a personal preference for the 2.2 liter MFI E and S. I didn't want to spread the analysis too far! But suffice it to say a well sorted F-Body is a thing of beauty!
When you say these cars have a hard time keeping up with modern cars in terms of performance (comparing a 3.2 to a minivan), are you referencing electric cars? I don’t consider 230hp to be slow compared to modern cars, especially not at their weight. I am in Europe, perhaps that matters.
I don’t know what mini vans you drive but 0-60 in 6 seconds and the superb handling will kick my sisters mini van butt anytime But yeah, an extra 50 horses would be great and for 10-15k you can supercharge it
If you like 911s more power to you. They are pretty over-rated but so is Rolex but that doesn't stop the fan boys who don't really care about the product. The bottom line is buy whatever you like within the amount you are willing to spend.
Great topic - I think we all go through this decision process. I can say that, coming from a 356A, my 964 felt extremely modern! Also take your point on looking for the best car: I was seeking another 993 when my dream 964 fortuitously came up for sale. That ignited my 964 love affair and three years on definitely a great choice. We daily drive a Cayenne so the less-than-modern aspects of the 964 are easy to accept. Thirdly, for any classic car enthusiast, any of these three are among the best -- still fun to drive, competent, reasonably dependable. Many (most?) classic sports cars are fine for cars and coffee and polishing... and that's about it.
Another cracking good PCA model guide video with Nathan Merz . Nothing better than playing one of these model guide videos on the big TV screen in the den.
Glad you enjoyed it
Tis the season to be thankful. One thing that I'm thankful for for sure is having access to, and the benefit of another of Nathan's videos. When you're constantly being targeted or hounded by people with narrow self-serving agendas, it is so refreshing to have access to really factual information like this that is being offered up to support and preserve the values that these unique cars provide. Thank you Nathan and thank you PCA.
You’ve stated several of many reasons why we love working with Nathan on these videos. Thank you for the kind words.
Thanks for the kinds words @Robertallen5210
Yes a Nathan video for Christmas! What fantastic gift. He is a legend. I’d love to see him in the uk one day, Boxengasse maybe!
Carrera 3.2 is my pick. IMHO when you buy a 40 or 50 year old Porsche it’s all about the mechanical connection, the early air-cooled engines and truly enjoying what for that period was a great handling car. I love a powerful Porsche like the next guy, but when I want spirited even cerebral driving that connects with all the senses, it’s an early gen Porsche. Great video, I especially like the driving portion.
Glad you particularly enjoyed the driving portion!
Nathan great video you nailed it on each Porsche… I know firsthand what you were saying for each car because I own all 3 and I have a love for all three of them. And I have a modern turbo Porsche and to be honest with you the 3.2 is the one that I go to? I love her.
@@JeanneR-m7s I have a 993 and 3.2 and the 3.2 is the one I choose most often. I get in the 993 and think, what an amazing car! And when I get in my 991.1 I think, this is a space ship! The 3.2 demands more work and when you get it right so much more reward than any more modern car.
My first 911 was a "77" 911S had it all thus time. Then acquired a 2001 996 Carerra 4! I love them both as both are a different driving experience🥰
Also my first! Mine was silver with black interior.
Nathan,
Thank you very much for breaking down the differences. The 993 you drove is EXACTLY like the one I recently purchased - ‘97 / C4S, guards Red - beige interior. I do have a huge grin every time I see and drive it and feel so fortunate to have it in my garage.
Merry Christmas to you and the rest of the PCA team.
Merry Christmas to you too and congrats on your 993!
Just a quick comment to let Nathan (and PCA) know that I really appreciate his comprehensive vidoe's, knowledge and love of all things Porsche.
We're glad you're enjoying the content!
Love all your videos! Keep up the great work!
Thank you! Will do!
I ran into Nathan by chance on a hotel shuttle at PHX airport a few months back.....he was gracious and took the time to talk Pcars, German classic car shows, and look at my SC photos...called the color right away lol.....he is as friendly as he is knowledgeable....thanks Nathan even on that short ride
@ts2107 great running into a fellow enthusiast out in the wild! Enjoy the SC!
I love all air-cooled 911s! Five months ago, I bought a 964 C2. I love the blend of classic and modern, so I was torn between the 993 and the 964 for a while. In the end, I chose the one that leans slightly more toward the classic side. Nathan's advice during this process was incredibly helpful-thank you!
We are so lucky to have someone like Nathan in the community. We salute you for your generosity and time. Happy New Year!
Impressive that Nathan does so many long takes without edtis! Truly exceptional knowledge.
Glad you enjoyed the video and appreciate the compliment!
Thanks for the video, and indeed, what makes the 3.2 so outstandingly appealing is its simplicity, combined with that non assisted direct feel.
What I almost never hear about the 993, is what I very much appreciate about it, that it feels very precise in its reaction to steering input.
Another great episode featuring Nathan and his contagious passion for the brand. It makes me want to experience ALL these incredible cars.
I’m glad you feel that way, they are all fantastic!
This video is an instant classic, thanks guys, but a 3.2 to rule them all.
Love that "when you walk away backwards". So true.
When an expert like Nathan calls the 996 a "great car", it sorta makes the "purist" naysayers look pretty silly...
It is not a bad car. But as a Carrera it is really boring. I drove it when it was new. And I did not like it at all.
@@theodoriller to my point
@@theodoriller was the suspension stock or modified? My old 996 became a different car (massively for the better) with the right setup on it. I think they are an insanely good entry level Porsche.
@@SRLang The car was brand new and stock. 996.2 Carrera manual. Compared to the aircooled there was no feel. The car drove very good with stocksuspension, that was not the problem. It lacked feel. It was as exciting as a VWGolf in my view in these days. GT3 was different. I did not liked the sound, I liked how it handled and geard. This is what I meant: good car but in my opinion not much excitemend. Same with the 992.1 Carrera S. Perfect but boring. GT3s a differnt story.
Thank you for the early Christmas present! MoMerzisMoBettah! I love how watching Nathan's video has made me a much more rounded fan of the brand. I definitely find myself skewing older in re model appreciation...but that may also be due to my "caviar taste and peanut butter wallet."
Merry Christmas to you too and glad you enjoy the videos!
Great video, love the content and the laid back style. Thank you for continuing to provide these excellent videos!
Much appreciated!
Great video. Thank you for your thoughtful, informative content. It's super helpful and welcoming to someone just getting into the world of Porsche.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Watching and listening to a new video by Nathan before the kids get up for Christmas is an incredible gift. I didn’t know @nathanmerz was Santa! I wonder if his sleigh looked different this year? Naturally aspirated or turbocharged?
Glad you enjoyed the video. It's a great way to start a day like today :)
Thanks Nathan feels like Xmas already
Merry Christmas :) Like that timing
Porsche Carrera 3.2 1989 the most flawless air cooled engine Porsche has ever built also the 911 G model has the best design compared too 964 and 993 the real Porsche fans know that these are the facts !
Merry Christmas, Nathan and thank you!
This was great! Thanks for more videos about cars no one can afford!
We can all dream :)
Ok- for the OCD in us…best reviews ever! Nathan, another incredible video, thanks. 🎉
Nathan, another fantastic education piece. That 993 looks awfully familiar. Any chance you shot this video a while back?
Extremely well done. Very fair and knowledgeable assessment of the last 3 air cooled generations. I love my 3.2 Targa.
"Love the one your with..." For me that's an 911SC. Always a fan of your comparos!
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for another great video. I went from a 997 RS to a 3.2. Talk about a huge gap! 😂 I do love it tho. Not fast by any means but it’s an amazing driving experience!!
Great video. I owned a 3.2 Carerra for 4 years in the early 2000's and loved the classic way it drove and it proved to be very reliable. I wasn't blown away by the performance as previously I had a 944 Turbo which the previous owner had modified (producing around 300 horsepower) so felt much quicker than the 3.2 Carerra even it it didn't sound as good. I followed this up with a 996 GT3, which was the most exciting car I've owned by some margin and very much missed. Love Porsches.
Great video - love that 993!
Thanks for watching!
I have owned all three, get whichever one you can afford, they are all excellent. They just get faster as you move up the model years.
"Less treble more bass"...
That's a good way to describe automotive sounds; Porsche seems to have mastered this. I prefer "more treble less base" at the top end; reminiscent of F1.
Mr. Merz, great video, as always, on Porsche's iconic 911 series. Now how about serving us up some 928 in 2025. Wishing everyone in PCA nation a Happy New Year!
We have a short 928 video in the hopper that we filmed with Nathan. Coming soon!
ooh! I love your videos. And as an owner of 1989 3.2 sport coupe.. oh. My car is in winter storage, and the startup and the sound.. oh man!
Great video, thank you! I picked up an '87 3.2 in the same color combo as in the video this past spring and I love it. Agree on the comments about the floor mounted pedals, initially I was convinced that my feet were too big or the pedals were too close together. I don't even think about it now, took a few drives to get used to and it's such a wonderful car to drive. Hopefully a 993 is in my future at some point as well.
Right on!
Hi Nathan, thanks for sharing your knowledge on all things Porsche yet again. Please do a comparison video on the .1 & .2 996 and 997 models.
@truebluemiata that would make a great video. In basic summary 996.1 thru 997.2 drive more similar than dissimilar with the bigger variance coming via the various trim levels (S, 4S, GTS) of the normally aspirated cars vs. 996/997/.2, which makes sense as they are built on the same basic platform. Obviously the biggest changes are aesthetic and like the above cars that is highly preferential, for me of those cars I like the 996.1 Aero Coupes and the 997.2 GTS4 the best looks wise, everyone else will have their own view!
I've had my SC targa for 40 years. I do some of my own work on it. I also own a 993 C4S and a 996 Turbo S. Despite having the least amount of hp, there are days I walk by the 993 and the turbo just to drive the 180 hp SC. I've improved the performance of the SC by installing SSI headers and a dual out exhaust; and improved the 993 by changing the gearing. It's better at the speeds I drive.
I'm from Norway and I got to borrow a well set up, early euro 3.2 for a whole day in the countryside on winding roads on a summers day. I was so charmed by the combined experience. Never felt slow or boring, just charming and forgiving. Not very sharp but huge fun. And the greenhouse is just perfect, the view is all directions is great and all the controls feel natural and where you'd want them to be. Ive driven 993 C4s which feels gruntier, but I own 2 TVRs from the 90s and they are like 2400lb and 350hp, so any 911 up to 997s will just feel dead slow compared.
But the TVRs can't beat the 911s on comfort and build quality feel. I want to build up a 80s 911 with 70s small bumpers etc and a 3.6 or bigger and revvier engine. I'd love to start with a 964 but they are so expensive...
As an owner of 1970 911 for nearly 50 yrs, I relate to your comment, if you could only have one 911. I've updated almost everything. All aluminum S cam short stroke 2.5, using 2.7 Euro P&C's on a 67 case with 40ADI Webers on Hi rise ported manifolds and heads with heavy duty springs. It has great low end torque but revs like a motorcycle. As for suspension: Aluminum banana arms,74 carrera front with deep 6" w/205 & 8" rear w/225 x15" alloy rims. Doors and rear flares from 82 SC plus complete camel leather interior too. I've make several other improvements, 96 mirrors, 94 rear decklid, short shift kit, oem S bumper & custom rear metal fab with reflector. All Porsche no after market parts. I can send a few photos if interested.
Very interesting indeed. My pick would be the 993 with an aftermarket exhaust. But every generation 911 interests me. A 911 must enhance its engine sound because it is part of its DNA. 😎
Great information!
Thank you !
Our pleasure!
I think the all three have their strong points, looks wise. 964 looks best from the front, 993 rear is absolutely superior looking, it's very underwhelming on the 964... and the G-body is the most traditional. I'm a 996 4S owner and if I had the money I'd probably go for the 993. But I'd love to own all three.
The 996 4S has the best rear of all 911s. 996 is a car that still looks relatively modern.
@@C4S911 Thanks. I own one and I love the rear. But if I'm being 100% objective I think 993 S is the best looking rear. But 996 4S is definitely the best looking water cooled rear. Cheers mate.
I would agree with both your points, and I do indeed love the 993 C2S rear end, but back (20yrs ago) when I bought, I decided on the 964 Turbo, of which the rear end is the best ever, imo. I absolutely fell in love with those extra wide hips.
@@Rushwind100 the ariel drown down view of a 964 looks so bad ass. Congratulations on your P-car 😎
@@Rushwind100 Absolutely man. 964 Turbo rear looks amazing. Personally I think the standard 964 sloped, narrow rear is very underwhelming but the Turbo version absolutely corrects that.
Go back further! Mid-year for me. Great video, Nate. Thanks for sharing your expertise.
Thanks for watching!
964 for the Carrera 4. That's the real party piece.
I'm a big fan of Nathan's videos . To me he's THE expert of 911's and I learned a lot about all the differences between all the models and production years from him. What I don't understand is ,especially with the 3.2 which has no power steering, that you hold the steering wheel at the bottom , and with all 3 cars that you turn the steering wheel with your hand at the inside of the wheel. One of the first things they said to me at the driving school ( more than 60 years ago) and later on at a skid course is to hold your hands in the ten to two position and never turn the wheel from the inside.I myself have a 3.2 since 2015 which is now perfect after a LOT of restoration work and I love the analog feel that you don't have in modern cars. And you don't have the distraction of all kinds of screens and beeps and lights, you just drive and have all the control yourself. I also have a 914 that has even better handling, but regrettably not a comparable engine. Happy Newyear from Belgium!
@slotty008 thanks for the kind words! You are correct, for performance driving 10 and 2 are ideal, I have learned however that when filming these videos if my right hand is at 2 o''clock that my hand takes up a huge portion of the screen with the camera dash mounted pointed towards me and it also blocks the gauges for viewers when filmed from the passenger angle, so I keep my hands lower when filming.
@@nathanmerz I already thought so :)
The cars you proposed look as if they come straight from the dealer : fabulous, so it would be very strange if they would start to rattle.
When I was 6yo, my mom and her best friend both had VW beetles…i absolutely loved the drive, sound, and smell of leather. Those cars triggered my lifelong love of the automotive world. About 15yrs ago I did a 2-day Porsche driving experience. I was teased by a couple partcipants when I quipped that I preferred the sound of the 997, over 997S, because its engine sound reminded me more of that old beetle. We all did agree that the most fun had during the class was when doing autocross event in an automatic 986… so power is just not a priority in these cars. I’d love to own an older 911 i could wrench on myself.
What should I look for, and where should I start?!
Thanks for sharing. Start our model guides on pca.org and here on TH-cam, then go drive some examples. Happy hunting!
Great video and excellent comparison of the three choices facing most people new to air-cooled 911s. I bought a 1988 944 Turbo new and daily drove it for 19 years and when it finally wore out I got a used 1991 964 and fell in love with the 964. I sold it (it had 150K miles and a half cage and had been a track car) for something easier day to day and got another 1991 964 with only 50k miles that was very well kept. I still have it and have kept it in mint condition and kept it up mechanically too. I have Bilstein PSS10s on it which are stiff and the ride height is RS height but otherwise it's stock. I agree completely with your tire comment - the 964 on 16" with 205 up front is very nimble at low speed, much more so than the 17"s IMHO. The stiffer lower suspension settings make it more like the designers probably intended. I've driven two SCs and owned one for a year while deciding whether to collect one but decided that I'd rather find an early 70s one as you suggested. I recently found the last 901 ever made which was sold new in Canada and was with the original owner until a couple of years ago. It's being restored with by the new owner (not me) and I hope to get to drive it when it's finished. I'm sure it will be a very different experience. I also agree with comments about the 996. My first 996 drive was a low mileage Turbo with an automatic transmission and I almost bought it. The Turbo engine and the automatic really worked well together. I regret not getting it when they were quite cheap. It was a totally loaded car that stickered when new for $159,000!
Great story and thanks for sharing your experience with these cars!
I have owned a 930 Speedster, 964 Speedster, 964 Jubilee, 964 Turbo 3.6, 993 Turbo, 997 GT3 RS 4.0 and I have to say that my 718 GT4 RS is better than all of them. If you can't afford a GT4 RS then go for a 981 Spyder or 981 GT4 as they are both great. If it is just a weekend car then I love the look and sound of the 930 Turbo with the G50 gearbox.
Thanks for another great video!!🙏
Glad you enjoyed it!
Nathan…love your videos…I have an ‘88 3.2…it was a runner when purchased (110K+ miles), and it was loved into an OEM+++…my version of a pseudo club sport (modified)…it would be fun to see you review cars that have been played with.
Great video, super informative. I was going to ask how do you find or make the opportunity to try older 911s? The closest I ever got was riding shot gun in a 993 Carrera RS for about 5 seconds :(
I have an 84 911 (my first 911 as of July) i have had the trouble finding direction regarding the heat controls on the dash and between the seats. Can someone advise the use of the levers?
I might be atypical in that I am a lifelong Porsche fan but never personally owned any air cooled examples, since my very first 911 was a 996TT. I've now owned quite a few water cooled 911s including some very special GT cars, but happen to sell air cooled 911s from time to time through my business. The appeal of an air cooled 911 to me has much less to do with performance and much more to do so with feel and sound. It's akin to why we like precision watches, fine jewelry, or other luxury goods that are made well. Nothing compares to the sound of an air cooled 911 door closing, and this love of mechanical precision certainly goes a lot further than that as it defines nearly every interaction with the car.
For this guy at least, the 993 is my easy pick from this trio as I do really prefer it's styling, useability, and overall refinement, but to echo Nathan I will also say that there are no bad Porsche 911s. Buy the best example you can, keep it mechanically correct, and drive until it hurts from smiling so much. They all provide smiles that are off the chart compared to so many other cars, and so we'd always choose to own 911s! Thanks so much for another fun and informative video.
Great insights, thank you for sharing them.
Thank you so much for these videos! I love your passion and expertise.
Thanks for watching!
I'm a G-body guy, I aquired my first drivers license in the SC days and I'm just partial to it for that reason, it was my dream car. I know this will ruffle feathers but I've never liked the looks of the 964. 993's are without a doubt starting to grow on me.... so integrated. Very interested in this (posting before watching) video as I'd like to purchase an air-cooled car to keep my 911-50 company.
I’m with you, the 964 bumper is SOOOO HEAVY AND BIG, and I can’t do the 993 lights--> bumper though the shortening of the bumper is great.
The 911 is by far the most perfect car ever, but it was never perfect and that is what is great about it, it’s approachability
I agree 100% for the narrow body N/A 964, but 20yrs ago when I drove them all, I fell in love with, & bought the wide hips (& power!) of the 964 Turbo. Love every angle of that car (better than my 993 C2S & 997.2 GT3 too).
Great xmas present - a new video with Nathan 🎉
Merry Christmas! :)
Great video. Just what I needed while I contemplate my Porsche "upgrade" to something a little newer. My current fleet is a 67S and a 73S. They are both keepers. Fascinating mechanically and with a screwdriver and a timing light I can keep them going. I've driven all three of your subject cars and they all left me wanting more. I liked the 3.2 best but could grow to like the others I suppose. Thinking back on my test drives what I missed was the very light steering and the importance of good technical driving in the curves. Especially in my 67. I felt more removed from the action. Maybe I'm just a fan of primitive motoring. I live at 6K feet in the mountains and find Porsche exceptional mountain cars. Just like the factory intended. I'm leaning toward a 964x4
Thanks for sharing your experience. A 964 C4 is an interesting angle for an addition to your garage, it’s something different to the 964 C2 you’ve driven and the 67 and 73 you already own. And kind of its own thing considering how the AWD changed for the 993… Projekt 964 is fun to drive, for what it’s worth.
All three have there own character in spades. .. Old school 911s all the way. .. There a sharp blue suit.
Thank you for the 911 evolution snapshot.! .. 911 owners are smiling ...
Glad you enjoyed. Hope this becomes a great resource!
The 964 is the greatest Porsche ever. In the history of history, period, mic drop.
Many would agree.
I miss my '96 GPW Carrera...don't miss the SAI fault codes which were a hassle in California for smog checks back in the day. Don't know if a fix for that has been developed, but many times I wished I had a '95 instead of my '96 (minus the basket handle) since the '95's didn't record those faults. Great video!
Thanks for sharing your experience, and glad you enjoyed the video!
Great insights Nathan 🎉
I love my 93 slate grey, manuel 964C2, no sunroof, no rear wiper.
Would be nice to see videos on air cooled Turbo models.
Noted!
@jasonpermenter6765 I will put that on my to do list: 930 3.0 liter (75-77) vs 78-89 3.3 (with plenty of nuance for early vs. late, ROW vs US, 89 G50) and 964 3.3 and 3.6.
@@nathanmerz please , hardly anything out there on them. Wanting to learn as a relatively new owner of a 1991 . I’ll donate mine got a video if needed .😄
Nathan - great video - I happen to be an "accidental" owner of a 1982SC; I live in the Bellevue area - not too sure what to do with it (improve it or sell). My brother bought it a couple years ago from the original owner but got bored with it and gave it to me. I noted this video says the location was from Kirkland, so I don't know if you offer consulting services. The car is a Targa, and while it runs -needs cosmetic work for sure and no doubt some engine help as well. Would be great to get some expert opinion on the reality of what this might look like going forward versus selling as is.
Feel free to reach out, I am easy to find and am happy to help a local Porsche owner.
Thanks for these informative videos.
Thanks. Great video and discussion!
❤from Vancouver Canada.
Glad you enjoyed it!
@ Only drawback is you pushed me one step closer to spending my sons’ inheritance on a 964 or 993!
LOL
Merry Christmas 🎄
Absolutely fantastic video ! Thank you very much for sharing all your thoughts. So, if a 3.2 is 30%, the 964 is 80% of a modern car's AC... What would be a 993, 90%? And what would be a 3.2 with an aftermarket like Griffiths' , 40, 60, 70 %? Thanks again for sharing !
964 and 993 are the same. The Griffiths system is great, a fairly involved install and $$ but if you need functional AC is a 911 prior to the 964 it’s worthwhile. Still not like a modern car but better than the OEM setup in the 964/993.
@ntm4122 Thank you very much 🙏🏿. I have heard that even with Griffiths' AC, the 3.2 would not get as good as a 964 or 993. Very nice and reassuring to hear otherwise 👌🏿. Thank you very much again. I really like my second 3.2 for all the above-mentioned reasons you stated, the only "drawback" with this and the previous one have been the AC because it is hot in Texas most of the time 😂.
Prices directed me to the 3.2 and i have no regrets there
Vry Great explanation of one&half decade of evolution of porsche 1984to1999 of porsche 3.2-964-993 models ,mor imp showing driving experiences of doze models on street giving fans porsche enthusiasts real hand knowledge to choose a perfect porsche based on deir needs & preferences,vry nicely kept alot of porsches proves reliability of porsche can reach to multiple generations proven fact
Glad you found the video helpful!
Thank you Nathan for this video! Your presentation and 911 knowledge is without compare.
The is issue with the 964 is and will remain supply vs demand. A very good insider I know that work for Singer UK arm let me know they are collecting and buying any 964 so long the chassis is salvageable, no matter the damage it will be bought. So the 964 will always hold value because of these.
I’ll pay higher membership dues if it means no ads in PCA TH-cam videos. I get that there’s ads in the print magazine, same goes there. I’d pay more.
Thanks for the feedback!
TH-cam does offer a premium subscription ($) that gets rid of ads. That’s the best we can do at the moment.
Maybe referring to the Escort Ad built into beginning of video.
@@PorscheClubofAmerica I subscribe to TH-cam premium and still received the radar detector ad.
Great video
Glad you enjoyed it
I found a 1989 964 Carrera 2 in the Netherlands. Is this possible? They tell me that it is an early delivery of the first Carrera 2 delivered.
In Europe they use a different system for assigning model years that in the US, here the manufacturer designates the model year whereas in Europe most contries assign it based upon the date of first registration. So for example a "1990" Model Year US 964 could have in fact been built/first sold in 1989 but was designated a "1990" whereas in most of Europe it would have been titled at a 1989. As a general rule in this era, Europe got these cars earlier than we did in the US as well.
@@nathanmerz Thank you, your explanation is very accurate.
993 Forever - the best of the air-cooled evolution! 😎😎
993s are unique ride….bridge the old with the new….964 were produced in less quantities and were more expensive than the 993 when introduced…..993 coupes are selling over $100k regardless of mileage….
Thanks Nathan for another great one. From the Carrera 3.2 side of the house, I'd say that when it's time to rebuild, the 3.4l kits out there help to split the difference in power along with a cam and tune. Absolutely zero complaints with mine after a mechanical restoration that I finished a bit over 2 years ago.
Hi Nathan, I love all your videos. I just bought my first classic. 1988 Targa. I would like to have it fully serviced and restored as much as I can afford. I live in San Diego, CA. Anyone you trust down here to do a good job? Thank you!
Buy one of each
964 my everlasting love ❤ I also have a 993, the car is a little bit to modern 😂 the g-model drives a little bit to old for me
Ha ha. Looks like you did the same after market heated seat mod in your 964 that I did in mine 👍🏻
Or do I buy a 3.0 SC?
It's not just a lack of comfort due to poor heat or AC in the 3.2, but a terrible defroster. Be careful in humid or cold temps. Still miss all of my SCs...
Thanks for the tips!
My 86 3.2 has AC as std so the heat & aircon are more than acceptable... just make sure it is kept serviced... good gas & NO leaks in hoses. Just dont expect it to be to same level of 2025 Chinese manufactured rubbish.
Isn’t there a page like this one that goes over all the front engine Porsche ? 924, 944, 928, 968.
964s are the most beautiful
First time visit. I will be buying a Porsche 911 but have no idea the right one. Would be a first time buyer. Might be a few years from now but trying to understand all of them. I'm also 48 and had the 80's 911 whale tale on my wall for years as a kid. Not sure I want that one. I think the 95 and up style is more my like now days. Again not sure. I do like the 996 as well, water cooled.
Excellent fitst part of the video. Also information in second part is interesting and useful. But it lacks spirited driving. Should you do this, you would have to abandon American (Buick & Co.) holding of the steering wheel. There is much more in driving all three Porsche generations presented here.
F body with the M64 in the back 😎
No issues with the 915 once it's warmed up
@HoleLeeAutomotive-rb2qs I am a BIG fan of the F-body, with a personal preference for the 2.2 liter MFI E and S. I didn't want to spread the analysis too far! But suffice it to say a well sorted F-Body is a thing of beauty!
When you say these cars have a hard time keeping up with modern cars in terms of performance (comparing a 3.2 to a minivan), are you referencing electric cars? I don’t consider 230hp to be slow compared to modern cars, especially not at their weight. I am in Europe, perhaps that matters.
Or if you’re poor, get an SC
It’s pretty amazing and if you get a euro spec it’s almost as spicy as a 3.2 with it’s different cams and compression
Merry Christmas 🎄
Merry Christmas!
I don’t know what mini vans you drive but 0-60 in 6 seconds and the superb handling will kick my sisters mini van butt anytime
But yeah, an extra 50 horses would be great and for 10-15k you can supercharge it
If you like 911s more power to you. They are pretty over-rated but so is Rolex but that doesn't stop the fan boys who don't really care about the product. The bottom line is buy whatever you like within the amount you are willing to spend.
Great topic - I think we all go through this decision process. I can say that, coming from a 356A, my 964 felt extremely modern! Also take your point on looking for the best car: I was seeking another 993 when my dream 964 fortuitously came up for sale. That ignited my 964 love affair and three years on definitely a great choice. We daily drive a Cayenne so the less-than-modern aspects of the 964 are easy to accept. Thirdly, for any classic car enthusiast, any of these three are among the best -- still fun to drive, competent, reasonably dependable. Many (most?) classic sports cars are fine for cars and coffee and polishing... and that's about it.
Thanks for sharing your experience!
Belle vidéo, bonjour de France
Merci d'avoir regardé
964 is the last (and best) real frog eye 911. By far.
The best Porsche in my opinion is the one I happen to be driving.😉
964 ❤