1980 Porsche 911SC Coupe Review

1980 Porsche 911SC Coupe Review

The 911SC is seen by many as the perfect entry into Porsche ownership. And do you know what? They could well be right

In the mid-1970s, and the launch of the new ‘impact bumper' models, it took Porsche a while to bring some semblance of order to its product line, with a few lacklustre models muddying the waters. But the arrival of the 3.0-litre 911SC in the 1978 model line-up changed all that.

With an engine based on that of the 930 Turbo, the SC was a real gem, with a strong, reliable drivetrain. The engine produced 180bhp at launch, rising to 188bhp in 1979 and then, just one year later, to 204bhp - only 6bhp shy of the output of the legendary 1973 Carrera RS!

1980 Porsche 911SC Coupe rear view

The SC used the same five-speed 915-series as its predecessors - a strong but notchy unit - but is noteworthy as being the first 911 to feature servo- assisted brakes. Body-wise, it featured wider rear wings similar (but not identical) to those seen on earlier Carreras.

Alongside the coupé, there was also a Targa, with its characteristic lift-out roof panel, followed in October 1982 by a full cabriolet. Initially this was available in left-hand drive only - right-hand drivers would have to wait until February 1983. If you liked fresh air but didn't want a Targa (many disliked the more angular styling) or a cabrio (too soft...), then you'd have been pleased to note that coupés were available with an electrically- operated sunroof.

1980 Porsche 911SC Coupe side view

The SC was offered with several options and it isn't often you'll see a ‘base-model', with ‘cookie cutter' wheels, no spoilers and bright anodised trim. Many customers instead chose to order the extra-cost Sport package, which included a flexible ‘whale-tail' spoiler, a front chin spoiler, gas-filled Bilstein dampers and 7J and 8J x 16in Fuchs alloys shod with the classic 205/55 and 225/50x16 Pirelli P7 tyres. Also popular was the M496 option, with blacked-out trim around the windows and door frames, although this became a standard feature in 1980.

The interior of an SC will be familiar to anyone who's peaked inside virtually any 911 built between 1965 and 1993! The basic layout of the dashboard is the same, the seats are the familiar ‘tombstone' design first seen in 1974 and, in right-hand drive, the pedals are annoyingly offset. But wait - what's that word I hear you muttering? Pasha?

1980 Porsche 911SC Coupe interior

Looking for all the world like a pattern chosen from the Mary Quant fashion range in the Swinging Sixties, Pasha was a two-tone chequered design seen in 1980 which taxed your eyes to their limits. Most people still smile at the mention of the word, but Pasha wasn't used for long as in 1981 it made way for the more conservative woven Berber.

This is a wonderful car. Capable of accelerating from 0-60mph in around six seconds and reaching a top speed of close to 150mph, the 911SC has plenty to offer the enthusiastic driver. These figures may be eclipsed by many modern Japanese imports, but they won't have that ‘Porsche magic'.

1980 Porsche 911SC Coupe engine

Faults? Few other than those brought on by old age. Inadequate rust-proofing measures mean that you need to be on the lookout for corrosion in all the usual 911 trouble spots (sills, kidney bowls, fuel tank support, etc).

Mechanically you would expect most cars to have had an engine rebuild by now - check for proof of what has been done.

1980 Porsche 911SC back view

On the whole, though, a good 911SC will be a fun ride and, with good ones still available at well under $33,600 (but prices are rising...), they represent excellent value for money.