Background
The Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 was introduced in 1984 to replace the longstanding SC model and in Porsche’s typically evolutionary fashion, it was visually very similar to the outgoing 911. It also marked the end of the G-Series line, introduced in 1974 and the last 911, that could trace its lineage back to the 1963 original.
Porsche built a staggering 80,000 911 Carrera 3.2s between 1983 and 1989. Not bad for a car that was supposed to have been killed off in favour of the front-engined 928. Cue customer outrage and an internal Porsche power struggle, that was resolved in the 911’s favour.
After years of largely incremental power increases the Carrera 3.2 introduced a rather more generous horsepower hike: 231bhp at 5900rpm from its 3.2-litre flat six, thanks to the 911 Turbo’s crank and longer connecting rods. Torque increased to 209lbs/ft at 4800rpm. The 911 finally broke the 150mph barrier, albeit only just at 152mph. The Carrera went digital too, with computerised fuel injection and RAM chips that even today can be manipulated to alter the fuelling and ignition.
Early Carrera 3.2s retained the Type 915 gearbox, but in 1987 the 911 got the gearbox that many would say it really deserved: The Getrag G50, that would go on to serve the 911 through the 964 and 993 ranges. Click here for our view on the great 915 v G50 debate.
The Carrera 3.2 also received a much plusher interior, with improved ventilation (always an air-cooled 911 issue) and sound insulation and two/three way electric seats. The deep bolstered ‘Sports’ version is still one of the best thrones, that Porsche has ever made.
The ultimate and arguably most desirable G-Series 911 is, then, a late G50 equipped Carrera 3.2, which is exactly what we have here. And for a welcome change it’s not red, black or white…
Good With Colours
In Porsche colour code speak, this is F9F9. Translated, that means Cassis Red Metallic and it’s really quite unusual and really very attractive. And to continue with the colours, the contrasting burgundy and linen leather interior is equally attractive and again, quite unusual/rare. As you might gather, we’re really taken with this Carrera 3.2.
And it gets better. Delivered on January 02, 1987 via Monarch Porsche, Warwick, this must have been a great way to start the new year for its first owner, a Mr Prestidge. Clearly a man of good taste too, as the spec is all his work. As is the start of a very comprehensive and weighty history file, which includes fully stamped service book, all invoices MOTs and even tax discs and even the odd parking fine dispute! Typically all works have been carried over the years by Official Porsche Centres and respected Porsche specialists.
Colour aside, the spec is fairly typical of its time. Front and rear spoilers immediately denote the popular with UK buyers, Sport Package. This also includes Bilstein dampers and 16in 7/8in Fuchs wheels. Additionally this has limited slip diff and inside the seats are the desirable deep-bolstered, electrically adjustable, Sports option.
The paintwork is as you would hope, thanks to a bare metal respray. Photos of the work carried are included in the history file.
Mechanically, there is nothing to hold this fine example back. The engine and gearbox have been rebuilt within the last 3000-miles, by respected specialist, Redtek. An invoice for £13,820 – included – will offer any prospective buyer instant assurance going forward. Mileage stands at 91,000-miles and it’s good to do that and more, all over again.
On The Road
Fans of the earlier 915 ‘box will argue that it’s the real deal, but there can be no argument, that the Getrag G50 is the slicker and easier shifter, enhanced by its hydraulic clutch. A G50 car will always, then, command a premium. And Carrera 3.2s of this quality, will always command a premium, too.
As good as it gets? Well we’re struggling to think of, or find any downsides. It’s the full 911 experience, but with the benefit of 14-years of G-Series development, which adds just the right amount of refinement and usability over the earlier Carrera 3.2s and the preceding 911 SC. From the churn of the flat-six catching, to the physicality of the controls and the unique balance of the weighty, twisting rear and the floating front, it’s just an immersive experience that feels like nothing else. A thrill, even.
In Summary
For years the 911 took just incremental steps forward model-by-model, but the Carrera 3.2, really does feel like a quantum leap. It’s the last of the true 911s too and this is the last of the Carrera 3.2s and one with a desirable and rare colour combo, plus a recently rebuilt engine and gearbox. As such, it really does have everything going for it.
