Description
Porsche 911 SC Targa | 1978
Highlights:
- Delivered new in the USA and imported to Austria in 2012
- Original color India Red
- Classic Targa top with well-maintained leather interior
- 3.0-Litre flat-six
- Valid inspection in Germany
The seller offers for sale this 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa, finished in the vibrant and factory-correct India Red. This air-cooled Targa variant features the durable 3.0-litre flat-six engine paired with a manual gearbox, producing reliable performance and characteristic Porsche sound. The car was imported from the US to Austria by Autohaus Reiter in 2012, at which time it had approximately 80,457 km. Upon import, a German odometer was installed, and the car has since covered around 38,000 km, bringing the total verified mileage to 118,500 km.
According to the seller, the car was professionally maintained during winters when workshops were less busy, ensuring all systems were kept up to date. It was sold to the current owner and has since been stored in a garage under a cover, contributing to its well-preserved state. There are minor stone chips and a lighter patch on the right door, but the paint and bodywork are otherwise in good condition.
The interior remains in a tidy state, with black leather upholstery. One seat has been reupholstered but matches seamlessly with the rest of the interior. Instruments and switches work as intended. The cabin reflects gentle use, with minimal signs of aging for a car of this vintage. As a 911 SC, it features manual windows, minimal driver aids, and a distinctly analog Porsche driving experience.
Mechanically, the car is in good condition. The gearbox shifts well, though the seller notes occasional resistance when shifting from first to second gear—a common quirk with older Porsche 915 gearboxes. Releasing and re-engaging the clutch typically resolves this. The lights, indicators, and brake lights work, and the car is currently inspected and road legal in Germany.
The 911 SC (Super Carrera), introduced in 1978, marked a pivotal evolution in the 911 series. With Porsche planning to phase out the 911 at the time, the SC emerged as an unexpectedly successful model that helped re-establish the 911’s position as a flagship offering. The 3.0-litre engine, developed with durability in mind, is widely regarded as one of the most reliable in the air-cooled lineup. The SC also introduced galvanised bodies across the range to combat corrosion—making well-preserved examples like this more common than earlier 911s, but no less sought after.
The Targa variant, with its removable roof panel and fixed rear window, was designed to combine open-air driving with increased structural rigidity and safety. Originally created to meet anticipated US rollover regulations, the Targa design became an icon in its own right, and remains a collectible body style within Porsche circles. Enthusiasts appreciate the blend of classic styling, open-top feel, and the slightly more compliant ride compared to hardtop 911s.
This example, with its European conversion, consistent upkeep, and desirable color combination, offers a compelling package for classic Porsche enthusiasts. While not concours-level, it presents well and is ready to be enjoyed as a road-going driver or carefully improved over time.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Bayern, Germany.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a German registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
