SWB vs. LWB

[Max (SD)]

Ok, I am not looking for which is better, but I would like to get an honest description of driving characteristics. For those that have owned both what did you like about either models.

What were the best characteristics between both models.

[docrodg]

The driving characteristics are different. Porsche lengthened the wheelbase in order to make the car easier to control in turns. Driven both and SWB is a little more squirrely. The rest is looks and part availability. LWB seems to have more available. 68 is worst for parts as interior has some stuff that is that year only.

[W6CZ]

68 is worst for parts as interior has some stuff that is that year only.

So is some of the exterior, if I am not mistaken. Plus there are changes within the MY.

I purchased 2 69 cars as I felt the "systems" were better. I have not owned both but I have driven a SWB car a little - I like the LWB - but it also could be a particular car - my 2 69's are night and day difference because of the way they are set up - improved vs. stock.

There are a LOT more suspension goodies available to a LWB car simply because more cars were produced with fewer changes.

[docrodg]

Yeah, a little of the exterior. Trust me, having a 68 911S is a pain to find parts for. Mine needs little for restoration, but it seems all of it is NLA.

LWB models handle better and are easier to find parts for, SWB are rarer and if restored worth more if you care about that (I don't). Ultimately just pick a car you like and can afford and have fun.

[MarkS]

For me it makes no difference. Both can be set up to handle as desired. Both can set up either to over steer or under steer by adjusting/changing anti roll bars. If I had to choose I prefer the SWB they seem to turn in a bit better which is the driving style I prefer. Either will bite you if you lift in a fast corner and either will serve you well.

[chris_seven]

Driven both and SWB is a little more squirrely.

[66S]

I like SWB. With later wheels and tires they stick as well as LWB 911s. I think when a LWB 911 rear breaks loose in a turn it is harder to gather it up because it is a quicker transition than with SWB. I think SWB is more predictable in hard cornering. If you have a limited slip differential it will add understeer in turns, LWB will also add to the understeer compared to SWB. I mostly like SWB because they have been given such bad press that the prices have been lower, my kind of car

[a911s]

They are really not all that different. Yeah, if both are completely stock, you can tell that the SWB will come around a little faster - but that's it. They both drive like a 911!

[jaudette3]

They are really not all that different. Yeah, if both are completely stock, you can tell that the SWB will come around a little faster - but that's it.

I'm with Randy. The Stig would probably feel a big difference, but I think it's pretty slight for the rest of us.

The reason I like '67 SWB's so much is that they somehow remind me a little of 356's. Just a wee bit more primal than the LWB's which are more sophisticated.

Cheers,
JohnA

[docrodg]

Yeah, I agree. The SWB models are spartan on luxuries and simple inside. It is not about luxury, it is all about driving.