Featured here is the popular 1987 Porsche 911 Carrera, one of the most successful competition cars. Porsche’s ever popular 911 represents the ultimate expression of Ferdinand Porsche’s original vision of the perfect sports car.
The spanish word “carrera” which translates to “race” was used by Porsche to commemorate the Carrera Panamericana. The Carrera Panamericana was conceived as a road race by the Mexican government to showcase the opening of the Mexican stretch of the Panamerican Highway. This was a 2000 mile endurance race.
There was a time starting in the mid 1970’s where Porsche was actually considering ending their most popular model and replacing it with the front engine, V8-powered 928. As it turned out, the company’s new American CEO, Peter Schutz, realized that this move would be a huge mistake the rear engine 911 would continue. The Porsche 911 would be seen as the the well-received 911 SC of 1978-1983. By 1984 the model’s future was not in doubt and this was proven by the introduction of the 911 Carrera.
All Porsche automobiles with race tuned engines were given the Carrera name. The Carrera name was special. It represented a particular race bred version of Porsche’s classic flat-four engine configured by Dr. Ernst Fuhrmann, using twin ignition, two dual-throat carburetors, and, most significantly, four-cam valve
The 3.2-liter 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera came out on the heels of the highly popular 911SC models, built from 1978 to 1983. The Carrera, priced at about $32,000, shared most of its outside styling with its immediate predecessor, but was designed for added power and performance.
When the SC models were discontinued, the Porsche Carrera’s were produced in coupe, open Cabriolet, and the in-between Targa body styles. The chief upgrade in the Carrera was the larger 3.2-liter flat six engine, which looked much like that of the 3.0 it replaced but was built mainly of all new parts. One very significance change was an improved timing chain tensioner, which had been an issue on previous Porsche models. Also new was Bosch Motronic fuel injection, which replaced the K-Jetronic system. The engine produced 200 horsepower and came mated to a Getrag five-speed manual transmission. This extra power allowed the Carrera to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds.
Power output was increased in 1987, up to 214 HP, with added torque as well, from 185 to 195 ft-lb. The clutch was changed to hydraulic from mechanical operation, and the old Getrag five-speed was replaced with a much better Getrag G50 unit with improved synchromesh. The popular and somewhat controversial (among purists, anyhow) slant nose option was available on Turbos and Carreras alike, for more $20,000 plus over the Turbo’s MSRP.
1987 Porsche Carrera Specifications
As mentioned above, the 1987 Porsche Carrera came with a 3.2-liter flat six engine delivering a maximum 214 HP. As a comparison, the 2018 Porsche Carrera produces a maximum 370 HP and a top speed of 183 MPH.
The gearbox was a Getrag G50 unit with improved synchromesh.The G50 gearbox has gone down in Porsche history as one of the best five/six-speed gearboxes.
Brakes were front and rear discs.
Overall length 168.9 inches and wheelbase 89.4 inches.
Top speed was touted to be 152 MPH.
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Reference material for this article included…911 & Porsche Magazine…The Complete Book of Porsche 911 by author Randy Leffingwell
The 1987 Porsche Carrera Collector Car
For the classic car enthusiast or for someone interested in owning a Porsche 911 without the sticker shock, the 1987 Porsche 911 is a great option. The mid 1980’s Carreras – especially low mile examples that are free of rust are in demand by collectors.
As with looking to buy any classic or vintage automobile, it’s important to know the originality of the vehicle, the owner history of the vehicle if possible and, if you wish, a third party mechanical inspection. Model popularity certainly drives price but also the overall condition, mileage and originality adds or takes away from value.
As of this writing we see a 1987 Porsche Carrera Coupes offered for sale with pricing ranging from about $50,000 to $78,000..Turbo models will likely be in the over $100,000 area.
(Article and photos copyright Auto Museum Online)