What I Like Most About an Early 911 is . . . .

[37yrold911]

not a lot larger in dimensions - so check the specs. don't go by eye

[StephenAcworth]

Height:
1964 901 = 1,320 mm
2015 911 = 1,297 mm
-23mm = -1.7%

Width:
1964 901 = 1,610 mm
2015 911 = 1,880 mm
+270 mm = +16.7%

Length:
1964 901 = 4,163 mm
2015 911 = 4,507 mm
+344mm = +8.26%

Wheelbase:
1964 901 = 2,211 mm
2015 911 = 2,450 mm
+239 mm = +10.8%

Kerb Weight:
1964 901 = 1,080kg
2015 911 = 1,595kg
+515kg = +47.7%

Accept that weight is significantly increased... but other dimensions, excluding height, are fairly big bumps (for a sportscar....)

not a lot larger in dimensions - so check the specs. don't go by eye

[37yrold911]

well it's all relative - good of you to post it all here

most are < 11% increases - would you have guessed that by eyeballing them?

[Fritz A. Ficke]

I like how simple old VW's are and how there is no heater fan or vacuum controlled stuff and the steering is direct and light with no heavy engine sitting on the front wheels, one belt, etc. and SWBS is the best VW, but with the power and brakes I always wanted. Tach. sitting as primary gauge! yeah! and finally enough oil.
I like throttle steering.
Even smells right.

[pu911rsr]

I like how they smell, I like how they start when I turn the key, I love the way the doors ping when I shut them. I love how I am always smiling when I get in and out. I love how I never turn the radio on.
Phil

[Kris Clewell]

$9000 spark plug wrenches.

[boba]

Love how every time I park and get out I always turn back to look at it as I walk away with a grin from ear to ear!

[ghalperin]

I love it that the "Oh Shit" handle gets used and abused.

[911T1971]

I might stir a debate w my argument, but while I agree to all above, have you guys actually drove newer models or just merely looked at them?

While the 991 indeed is a larger car it drives quite superb and its imo still a pretty design.
And my recently aquired 997 is a absolute huge joy to ride. Its feels short compare to modern cars but has the right proportions where it needs.., nothing is large and nothing feels heavy.
After 10 year owning an early 911 and driving/testing all others aircooled models (2.0l, 2.2, 2.4, 2.7, 3.2, 964, 993 and ex-Milou's S/T), of the newer cars the 997.1 comes very close. It still has the soul of the early's while also has a firm leg in today's world. Plus imo it has stunning looks.

There is something nice to know that today still exist a modern car who transmits things we all like in older 911's..and still has the engine in the back.

I love all aircooled early's (now at least 20 years old so all are feeling vintage) but nothing comes close to the engine's whine of the rather modern 997 driving at 250km/h on a stretch of autobahn...and still pushing from behind like a unleashed beast. But also perfect for going to groceries taking my 2 young kids with it. Its still feels very much like a true 911.

Maybe Im the only one judging both aircooled and watercooled cars being equal (but not similar) and I need to wait another 10 years for followers...

[Frank Beck]

Karim,

I agree. Especially for someone like me who is in the service/repair biz for these cars.
Later cars are like a wealthy uncle who you genuinely like and he gives you money.

While many of the parts border on solid waste, the cars themselves drive brilliantly. Try pitching any early car as hard into a corner as one of these and you'll find yourself screaming for mommy. As Karim says they are a blast to drive and make everyone a hero when driven with spirit. The nice thing about 997.1 S cars currently is that you're simply buying the hardware. No premium for nostalgia or other collector based crap.