1984 Porsche 911

As 1983 began to fade away, so did the 'SC' designation on the Porsche 911. In its place was a new name, the 'Carrera' which had been used on various specials and racing Porsche models from the early 1950s. The 911 3.2 Carrera designation was used from 1984 through 1989 and was the final iteration in the original 911 series. The 911 models that followed would wear new body styling and new electric, suspension, and brake technologies.

The engine found in the 1984 Porsche 911 was an overhead-cam six-cylinder unit that offered 207 horsepower at 5,900 RPM for North American market cars and 234 horsepower at 5,900 for other market cars. The previous K-Jetronic fuel injection system was replaced by a Bosch 'Motronic' control system. Along with upgrades to the fuel and ignition control components, the engine refinement and reliability increased. Its displacement was higher than its predecessors, measuring 3,164cc with a 3.7-inch bore (the same as the previous SC model) and a 2.9-inch stroke. The engine was mated to a five-speed Type 915 manual gearbox in the rear transaxle carried over from the SC series for the first three model years. Stopping power was courtesy of four-wheel disc brakes which were larger than before, and allowed for more effective heat dissipation. Bodystyles included a coupe, cabriolet and Targa. The coupe sold for approximately $32,000 in the United States while the cabriolet was the most expensive, selling for $36,450.

The styling of the Carrera was nearly identical to the SC, distinguishable by the front fog lights that were integrated into the front valance. Another update for the 1984 model year was the optional 'Turbo Look' (M491) equipment package which added a firmer suspension, flared fenders, spoilers, and bigger tires. Approximately 3,663 examples were equipped with the 'Turbo-Look' through 1989. Initially, only the Coupe could be fitted with the 'Turbo Look', but some cabriolets were ordered with Turbo-Looks items but devoid of option code M491 in the internal data sheet (cardex). By 1985, all three body styles could be purchased with the Turbo-Look option.

by Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2011