TOP 10 TIPS FOR Buying A PROJECT 911
Take your time 01
Taking on a project 911 is a big commitment. Do your research: don’t simply buy the first car you find.
Get a professional inspection 02
Pay a Porsche specialist to inspect the car before you buy. It could save you thousands in the long run.
Stick to your budget 03
Work out a total budget for buying and restoration. Include some wiggle room for unforeseen bills.
Check the numbers 04
Matching numbers’ cars are worth more. At the very least, make sure the car’s chassis number (VIN) matches its logbook (V5C).
Provenance is important 05
Ownership documentation and service history are vital for Porsche values, even if you plan a bare-shell restoration.
Seek out special models 06
Choosing a limited-run 911 may help you make a profit from your project. However, headline-grabbing ‘barn finds’ are few and far between.
Rust is your enemy 07
Bodywork is generally trickier and more expensive to repair than mechanical problems. Look for rust everywhere.
Trim can be trouble 08
Tracking down specific pieces of exterior or interior trim can be a nightmare. Another reason to buy an original car.
Spares are always useful 09
Some project cars will come with a garage full of spare parts. Take everything: you never know what you’ll need.
Be prepared to walk away 10
Don’t become too emotionally attached to a project. Even a classic 911 isn’t worth bankrupting yourself over.