Here we have a very nice example of a late edition model of the "G-Body" Porsche, an '88 Carrera in triple black Targa trim with a factory optioned whale tail. This car is in very good overall condition and is ready to drive and enjoy.
This car spent most of its life in Florida and most recently Colorado, before coming to Arizona earlier this year. The odometer currently shows 131,000 miles, with 28,000 of that added since 2003 according to the Colorado Title's actual mileage box. It has certainly had some paint and upholstery work completed as necessary over the years to keep the car fresh and presentable.
Porsche Carreras covered the years 1984 though 1989 and were all powered by the air cooled 3.2 liter flat six engine with the Bosch Motronic fuel injection. In 1987 the G-50 five speed transaxle was introduced, and is considered a significant upgrade over the earlier 915 gearbox.
This Carrera is smooth and powerful. Clutch take up is predictable and the shifter notably slick compared to earlier 911's. The Bosch Motronic fuel injection holds idle steady and is highly responsive at any rev range. Porsche brakes were essentially unchanged for fourteen model years and for good reason as they offer superior feel and race bred performance. The G-Body Carrera was the last 911 with unassisted steering, retaining the connectedness between car, driver and road that make the Porsche 911 so special.
The interior of this car is in great condition; seats, carpet, door cards, dash and all controls show minimal to no wear. All of the gauges and lighting are in working order. Glass is good and window lifts operate smoothly. The Targa top is in very good condition and fits tight and dry. The original polished Fuchs wheels are in great condition and clad with newer Dunlap Dirrezas staggered 225/50-16 rear and 205/55-16 front tires.
As with any older black car this one has collected its share of imperfections; a bit of road rash on the hood and front bumper and a few other nicks, swirls and scratches. The car has been repainted (in its original black), has had some reupholstery work done and despite a clean Carfax report there is sign of repair in the front tub, perhaps because of a leaking battery. Whatever work was done, it was done right because this Carrera accelerates, steers and stops perfectly.
The records for this car are not as comprehensive as I would like, but a recent third party compression/leak down test by a Porsche technician indicates a very healthy powerplant, which is always a good indicator of consistent maintenance by caring owners.
I have been in continuous possession of air cooled Porsches for many years now. This triple back Targa is as nice a driver as you will find. With a bit of cosmetic attention, it would be a show stopper. But don't get me wrong, there is nothing to be ashamed of with this car; it is a very well preserved example that draws attention wherever it goes.
These mid year, G-Body, impact bumper 911's are among the most reliable sports cars ever built. I have on numerous occasions driven them across country without issue (don't try that in a Ferrari). They are comfortable and practical, with a back seat suitable for small people or large dogs. They get respectable gas mileage and are actually pretty easy to work on if you have tools and some skills. These cars were factory galavanized and made of robust materials; they are designed to last. If taken care of and not abused, the engines are known to go 300,000 miles between rebuilds. Coupes are the universally respected standard bearer for the marque, but having owned all the versions, I can say that Targas are a joy to drive and very rewarding to own.
This Carrera is located in Scottsdale, Arizona and is offered as is where is. Clean Carfax provided upon request. Interesting trades considered. No bikes, boats or planes please. Scammers and sales assistants need not apply. Call, text or reply.
