Lot 320: 1981 Porsche 911SC Cabriolet

When introduced in 1978 the three litre 911 SC became the basic Porsche model and was in effect a detuned Carrera 3. It marked the reintroduction of the SC designation for the first time since the 356 SC (as distinguished from the race engined 356 Carrera). No Carrera versions were produced, the 930 Turbo remaining at the top of the range. Yet, the weight of the extra equipment on these cars was blunting performance compared with what would have been expected from earlier, lighter cars with the same power output. So power was increased to 188bhp for 1980, then finally to 204bhp. SCs sold in Great Britain could be specified with the Sport Group Package which added stiffer suspension, a rear spoiler, front valance rubber lip and black Fuchs alloy wheels. In 1981, a cabriolet concept car was shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show; not only was the car a drop-head, it also featured four wheel drive. In late 1982 (debuting as the 1983 model) the first 911 Cabriolet went on sale (the first Porsche cabriolet since the 356). To many, this was a much more attractive car than the Targa, the other open top 911. While the Targa was priced to match the regular car, however, the Cabriolet cost significantly more but because of the swell of support from Porsche enthusiasts worldwide, cabriolet versions of the 911 have been offered ever since. The example presented here is a special Turbo-bodied car complete with Turbo 2 alloys wheels and badges. Finished in dark blue, the interior is in complementary blue and has electrically operated seats. The black hood, also fully automatic, has been recently replaced, as has the clutch. Also included in this recent run of mechanical and cosmetic upgrades are new cross-drilled brake discs and a CD player with six speaker 'surround sound'. With just 70,000 miles recorded and a MoT test certificate valid until September 2008, this good looking legend has much to give and, with the addition of the personalised number plate, would look striking on anyone's drive.