1983 Porsche 911SC Cabriolet

1983 marked the triumphant return of the Porsche Cabriolet after an 18-year hiatus following the end of the 356 model run, and 20 years after the debut of the 911. Peter Schultz, then CEO of Porsche Cars North America, was discussing his idea for a Cabriolet with Ferry Porsche when they unveiled their vision to the world at the 1981 Frankfurt International Auto Show. The response was overwhelming, and less than two years later, the 911 SC Cabriolet became a reality.

This was a “one-year-only” model, arriving at the tail end of the SC production run, with just 1,718 examples reaching U.S. shores. This particular example is, without question, the finest I’ve ever encountered. I originally purchased this car in November 2014 from its first owner in Oregon. Shortly after, I shipped it to Chris’s German in Redmond, Washington, for a complete service, including updated chain tensioners and any necessary maintenance. Once sorted, I brought the car home and enjoyed it for over six months.

After showing photos to a friend in North Carolina, he was smitten and had to have it. Earlier this year, I reacquired the car and resold it to another close friend, who hoped his young kids would enjoy cruising around with Dad—but they didn’t! Now, for the third time, this beauty has found its way back to me.

Fresh from a major engine-out service to address unforeseen issues (including the dreaded head stud repair), the car also received its first serious detail. That’s when my old concours-level OCD kicked in, and we went all out! Using 400 pounds of dry ice and a high-powered laser, we meticulously cleaned and restored every inch of this already stunning example.

I can confidently say this is the finest 1983 Porsche 911 SC Cabriolet—restored or original—on the planet. The original Ruby Red paint is so deep and lustrous it’s impossible not to stare. The black interior is exceptional, the original top is in outstanding condition, and all the original details are simply magnificent. Inside and out, top to bottom, and pound for pound, this is the best example offered since 1983!