10 top tips for buying a 964

964 advice with help from Mikey Wastie of Autofarm, Alan Drayson of Canford Classics and Jamie Tyler of Paragon Porsche

1 Originality

The 964 is perhaps the most modified of 911s, so it’s vital to know what you’re buying.

“Finding a completely original 964 is really quite hard,” says Jamie of Paragon. “Cup alloys and teardrop mirrors are common cosmetic upgrades.”

2 Service history

If you have one eye on investment, Autofarm’s Mikey has three words of advice: “History, history, history.” Plenty of 964s were neglected in the early 2000s and will be expensive to put right. “They should be serviced once a year or every 12,000 miles,” says Jamie. Check for stamps from an OPC or reputable specialist.

3 Corrosion

The 964’s shell was galvanised, and it was the first 911 with plastic wheel arch liners. Even so, rust can take hold on the scuttle beneath the windscreen rubber, around the door shuts and rear window and on the rear wings. Mikey also advises checking the boot floor and the battery tray.

4 Accident damage

“Uneven panel gaps suggest a shunt – as can rust,” says Alan. Jamie agrees, adding: “Replicating a factory finish when repairing a 964 is quite difficult, but you can easily pull out the boot carpet to identify any damage.” The factory identification sticker on the underside of the bonnet is worth looking for, too.

5 Engine

The 964’s tendency to leak oil is well known, especially from the rocker cover or from the barrel. If the engine has been rebuilt, check it has the later barrel-to-head joint face. And be aware that the engine undertray prevents oil dripping on the floor, potentially masking the problem. Cylinder head studs can break, too, causing a misfire at higher revs.

6 Drivetrain

A noisy torque convertor points to problems with the Tiptronic auto ’box. “The 964 is quite heavy on clutches,” cautions Jamie, “and the dual-mass flywheel is usually replaced at the same time.” The Freudenberg DMF fitted to early cars was unreliable and was replaced by an LUK item in 1992.

7 Brakes

Most issues revolve around corrosion between the aluminium brake calipers and steel-backed pads. “In extreme cases, the backing plates can lift, causing the pads to drag,” notes Mikey. On cars that are used infrequently, rust may bubble up on the inner edges of the brake discs.

8 Suspension

Even the newest 964s are now 24 years old, and tired suspension arms, shock absorbers and bushes won’t help handling. “Front wishbone bushes wear out, leading to the car feeling loose and wandering on the front end,” notes Jamie. “Replacing these can make a huge difference.”

9 Interior

The issue of modifications versus originality also crops up here, as even small items of trim can be time-consuming to source, and expensive. “Check Cabriolet hoods work properly and Targa tops are nicely sealed against the door glass,” says Alan. Mikey has good news when it comes to flaking gauges, though: “It’s an easy job to have them overhauled and looking like new.”

10 Driving

Always arrange a test-drive before you buy. The 964 is a relatively simple sports car and it should feel taut, direct and engaging. If not, something isn’t right. Check the flat six revs freely and that gearbox, clutch and brakes operate smoothly. All three experts recommend investing in a pre-purchase inspection, too.