Pete Millikin wrote:Hey Tom- I thought the conventional wisdom was the the longer wheelbase models from 69 on were more desirable.
Pete- you are entirely correct about this. The LWB models from '69-89 are almost totally interchangeable on parts and have many improved features, not the least of which is the 2" longer wheelbase. Some of the '65-68 parts are definitely NLA or very expensive.
If your intention is to buy a car and upgrade for the track, I would always recommend the '69-73 models (although '69 is kind of a bastard year for transplants- ask Arnie Classen, and the '72-73 cars are better if you are going to convert to coilover suspension.) However, a SWB car can also be converted to LWB and have entire SC/Carrera running gear and flares added if desired, it is just a little more expensive. I know of a '66 widebody conversion recently for sale here in SD for about $13K, and it is indistinguishable from a later model in most every way, with an '82SC engine, transaxle and running gear.
However, we were talking here about buying a restored or original car, and in that case, the 1967 911S, being the first of the "S" models produced by the factory, would have more "cachet" than a '69E, in my opinion, which would translate to greater desireability and value in the marketplace. The SWB cars can make an excellent autox weapon in stock form also, although the greater inherent oversteer can make them less attractive as a "big track" car. On the street, there is very little difference in handling or driveability, as long as you aren't pushing the limits of grip frequently.
In Bruce Anderson's last update on early 911 values, he placed the 1967 911S in excellent condition at $16,125. A corresponding condition '69E he estimated at $12,200. I think that reflects the relative value well, although it is considerably less than what a very well restored or original example of either would go for in the current market. BA calls such cars "beyond excellent", and doesn't really include them in his estimates. As I mentioned previously, such cars can fetch prices in excess of $40K.
TT