Which One-Owner Porsche Convertible Would You Choose: 1983 911 SC or 2002 996?
Now available on Hemmings Auctions are a pair of drop-top sports cars that look ready to be the perfect summer rides
04/15/2024
The essence of the Porsche 911 has changed very little since its introduction in 1963: two doors, a flat-six engine, and an unmistakable, uniquely rounded profile. There have been some changes over the years of course, such as the introduction of a convertible for 1983 and a water-cooled engine for 1997.
Right now on Hemmings Auctions are a pair of drop-top Porsches that bookend those different models: a 1983 Porsche 911SC Cabriolet and a 2002 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet. Both have a manual transmission, and both have relatively low miles for their age. And both appear as distinctive as ever, particularly on today’s roads flooded with generic utility vehicles.
1983 Porsche 911 SC Cabriolet
When Porsche debuted the 911 Cabriolet for 1983 it was during the last model year of the SC generation and the famed sports car was already 20 years old at this point, updated every few of those years, but still seemingly long in the tooth. Fortunately, all of those updates helped improve the breed over and over again. By the early 1980s, the 911 SC remained a popular and capable sports car.
The specs on the SC offered top-notch performance for the era. Its 3.0-liter oil-and-air-cooled flat-six engine was rated at 172 horsepower in U.S. trim, enough to propel the roughly 2,800-pound sports car to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds according to Car and Driver, which also measured a top speed of 136 mph. A five-speed manual transaxle was the only available gearbox.
Porsche produced the SC from 1978 through 1983. For many years, it was somewhat forgotten by collectors, as the earlier, lighter cars and later Carrera models from 1984 through 1989 grabbed their attention. But the SC has had a bit of a renaissance in recent years, delivering the same visceral experience of all the 1989 and earlier 911s that enthusiasts have come to love.
This 1983 Porsche 911 SC Cabriolet now listed on Hemmings showed just 67,671 miles on the odometer at the time of submission. It’s also listed as a one-owner example and highly original with its factory-applied Guards Red finish kept in top shape by regular storage in the garage when not in use. The engine, too, is noted as original and never rebuilt, with the seller promising “instant cold starts.” In the photos provided by the seller, the car doesn’t look so much as showroom new, but driven and well cared for.
2002 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet
Bookending the air-cooled SC convertible is this 2002 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, from the first generation of water-cooled 911s. Increasingly strict emissions and noise regulations on both sides of the Atlantic prompted Porsche to develop an all-new water-cooled engine for the 996 series. (Though it never used the “996” moniker on a vehicle badge, the generation of 911s produced from 1997 through 1994 are often referred to by the Porsche internal model designation.) A continuous move upmarket, with increasing competition from all corners, also pushed Porsche to improve the model with significant refinements throughout. Other than the overall layout—as noted above—of a rear-mounted flat-six engine and just two doors, everything else was new with the 996.
The 996 models do take some flak from the purists, as Porsche developed it in conjunction with the mid-engined Boxster, with which is shared the front end design and chassis elements. Fortunately for fans of the iconic German sports cars, the 996 models turned out to be solid driver’s cars, delivering a modern take on the original formula that enthusiasts quickly embraced. Porsche engineers even managed to give the water-cooled models a distinct sound somewhat reminiscent of the air-cooled cars.
This 2002 Porsche 911 Cabriolet benefited from a host of improvements ushered in by the 996 generation, including a sleeker, more aerodynamic body designed with many safety improvements in mind. The Cabriolet offered a fully electric top (something not available on the ’83, but added to the line in 1987), two small rear side windows for a larger greenhouse with the roof up, and a hidden roll bar that automatically deploys in a rollover accident.
The 2002 model year introduced a 3.6-liter version of the air-cooled engine, up from the first 996’s 3.4-liter mill. The DOHC, 24-valve, water-cooled powerplant was rated at 320 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, enough to ensure sub-five-second 0-60 mph times and mid-13-second quarter-mile times, along with a factory-rated top speed of 177 mph. A revised front-end design was also greeted warmly by Porsche fans.
This 2002 Cabriolet now on Hemmings Auctions is also listed as a one-owner vehicle, though it is offered by a dealer. It showed just 36,576 miles on the odometer at the time of submission and is also equipped with the desirable six-speed manual transmission.
Porsche’s rear-mounted flat-six was an unusual choice for its sports car 60 years ago, but the formula’s been a proven success in the showroom as well as the trace track. The question we have: Do you want the purer experience of this 1983 911 SC Cabriolet or the refined version from the 21st century offered by this 2002 911 Carrera Cabriolet?
Check both of them on Hemmings Auctions and let us know what you think.
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"By merging our strengths, we'll ensure the long-term availability of existing parts, while also igniting the development of exciting NEW additions to our inventory including the resurrection of parts long since discontinued," the companies said. "This comprehensive one-stop shop solution will provide you with an unparalleled range of parts at exceptional value, all backed by the unwavering commitment to quality that defines our legacies."
Ed Moss, the president of Moss Motors since 2010, said in a statement, "We are pleased to partner with Radial, an experienced vehicle aftermarket investor, as we transition Moss from its third generation of family ownership. The Moss team is thrilled to be combining forces with Rimmer Bros to create a leading global supplier of replacement parts for British vehicles.” Moss Motors has been owned by Glen Adams and Robert Goldman since 1998.
Increased R&D, distribution capabilities
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Bill and Graham Rimmer said in a joint statement that the merger "creates a global business with immense R&D, sourcing, marketing and distribution capabilities to better serve our loyal customers.”
"We sincerely thank you for your unwavering support over the years," Moss and Rimmer said in separate statements. "This exciting merger signifies our dedication to being your partner, not just today, but for years to come. Together, we'll ensure a thriving future for car enthusiasts everywhere."
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