Description
The 911 SC – and no one today seems quite sure what those two letters stand for; Super Carrera seems to be the most likely explanation – was the immediate successor to the Carrera 3. 0, and was offered from the 1978 to 1983 model years inclusive, during which time nearly 61, 000 were built at Porsche’s Stuttgart factory, before being replaced by the Carrera 3. 2.
The early 180bhp cars were conceived to comply and run on low octane US fuel, but soon European spec cars began to benefit from uprated versions of the 3-litre engine, with 188bhp for the 1980 model year and finally a definitive 204bhp for 1981. US cars, however, were stuck with 180bhp throughout. The full-fat 204bhp gave the SC a top speed of very nearly 150mph and a 0-60mph dash of 6. 8 secs.
At first glance it’s difficult to tell the Carrera 3. 0 and the 911 SC apart, but as ever the devil is in the detail. Mechanically the SC took the 930 Turbo derived engine and added a new electronic ignition system, plus improvements to the timing chain tensioners. The SC was also the first normally aspirated 911 to receive servo assisted brakes, plus bigger discs over the 3. 0.
Interior wise, there were subtle improvements in trim and finish, with vinyl, leather and Berber fabric. 1980 saw the arrival of the infamous Pascha psychedelic trim, surely the ‘Marmite’ of all Porsche interior options!
Basic non-sport spec SCs were distinguished by a lack of front and rear wing, plus 15in Fuchs or ‘Cookie cutter’ wheels, but us sporty Brits generally specified the well-known Sport pack, with lowered Bilstein dampers, 16in Fuchs wheels and front and rear wing, plus ‘Sports’ seats.
The SC has long been the ‘gateway’ to the classic air-cooled 911 experience, although sitting in the shadow of the Carrera 3. 2, for many years. Now though, it’s very much an option in its own right, with its own very defined character, being lighter and revvier than the 3. 2. It’s a 911 that we have a lot of time for at Paul Stephens and it’s rare that an SC isn’t in stock.
Mr Blue Sky
Which brings us very neatly to this rather lovely looking 1982 Hellblau Blue Metallic 911 SC. Note the colour: Not red, not black, not white! That’s something of a rarity in itself, because we Brits did like our primary colours back then.
Delivered to Porsche Cars Great Britain, not unusually it was specced with Sports equipment Bilstein dampers and, of course desirable 16 inch Fuchs wheels (currently fitted with Dunlop SP Sport 2000 tyres), plus a factory sun roof. It has at some time been augmented with 911 Carrera 3. 2 front valance, incorporating fog lights, plus a Carrera 3. 2 rear wing.
Currently showing 95, 000-miles, there is nothing to suggest any significant bodywork issues, although we would not be as naïve as to assume that the paintwork is original on the basis that it’s immaculate! There is photographic evidence of undersealing and Waxoyl treatment, and on the ramp the underside presents well. Likewise, the blue leatherette interior is in good condition, when often an SC interior can present as being quite tired, some 43-years down the line… The Blaupunkt Melbourne head unit isn’t standard, but it is period correct.
A stacked history file reveals a comprehensively stamped service book, the last of which being a major service carried out by Jasmine Porschalink. Other highlights are a full gearbox rebuild at 80, 000-miles, plus an engine rebuild in 2018, just 3000-miles ago.
The original Porsche Possessions brochure is a nice time capsule. Who wouldn’t want a pair of Porsche leather slippers, or the Porsche tennis kit, as modelled by youthful 1980s spec, Derek Bell. Those shorts look a bit tight, though, Derek!
On The Road
Being a later 1982 SC, then this example has the full 204bhp and there is nothing to suggest that any of those horses have left the stable. Indeed, a rolling road printout and test reveals 202bhp, so well within tolerance.
The Type 915 ‘box is typically notchy, but perfectly precise. Some malign the 915, but a good one is a great way to change gear. And besides, no one moans about the 915 when driving a 73 RS! Check out our homage to the pros and cons of the Type 915 here.
The ride is taught, but in no way harsh, and the steering reads the road with typical 911 feel and feedback. Light and wieldy, it’s perfectly at home on British roads.
In Summary
A very clean looking and well-presented 911 SC, the perfect entry level, air-cooled 911, ready to be used and at price that encourages exactly that. Clearly not quite stock, with its Carrera 3. 2 front and rear addenda, but easily backdated, which is something that we could carry out here at Paul Stephens.
