Import your dream used Porsche 911 from Japan (Part 1)

Used Porsche 911s are always in demand! In Japan, almost any model dating back to the 1960s can be found at lower prices than just about anywhere else in the world. They are also in better condition because Japanese treasure their JDM foreign cars like babies.

In Japan, almost any model dating back to the 1960s can be found at lower prices than just about anywhere else in the world. They are also in better condition because Japanese treasure their JDM foreign cars like babies.

Here are some examples of great Porsche 911 models periodically available through used car auctions and used car dealers in Japan. The first model is now beyond the reach of most enthusiasts, but others have been exported by Japan Car Direct to satisfied customers around the globe.

1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7

One of Japan’s favorite supercars

In Japan, the Porsche Carrera RS 2.7 has a special place in people’s hearts because of its starring role in a popular manga series. The white model with red Carrera lettering depicted in the series still represents the ultimate supercar for many Japanese.

Enthusiasts who affordably imported them from Japan many years ago are now patting themselves on the back because their value has sextupled in the last decade or so. Perhaps other used Porsche 911 models being sold through Japanese used car auctions and used car dealers today will rise in value just as spectacularly.

The Carrera RS (RennSport) was released in 1972 as a street-legal homologation special based on the 911S. Its “Carrera” moniker was derived from the Carrera Panamericana races in Mexico and previously appeared on the Porsche 356 Carrera production model and Carrera 906 racing machine.

Both the competitive stripped-down Sport model and more comfortable Touring version feature a responsive air-cooled, fuel-injected, 2.7-liter SOHC six-cylinder engine and 5-speed manual transmission.

Friction-reducing Nikasil-coated cylinders proven in Porsche 917 racing cars help pump out 210 PS at 6300 rpm — a record 78 hp per liter that was unsurpassed in naturally aspirated 911 production engines until 1993.

The Sport model sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, hits 100 mph in 12.8 seconds and achieves a top speed of 152 mph with the Touring version not far behind. Handling is also phenomenally crisp thanks to a race-tuned independent front and rear suspension with front and rear anti-roll bars, wide wheels and 4-wheel disc brakes.

There’s no denying that the racy body with chin spoiler and ducktail rear spoiler is one the most beautiful in 911 history. Many 911 Carrera RS 2.7s are white with “Carrera” graphics and stripes across the lower sides, as well as wheel spokes painted the same color as the graphics.

The Porsche Carrera RS 2.7 is now only available to very wealthy collectors, but other used Porsche 911 models from the same era are available through Japanese used car auctions and used car dealers at lower prices. The Porsche 911E is a great example.

1972 Porsche 911E

Air-cooled and highly collectible

Many enthusiasts consider the 1972 Porsche 911E one the best 911s ever. From powerful air-cooled engine to classic styling and responsive handling, it offers everything we love about vintage 911s. Collectors also love it because only 1,985 were produced and an extremely rare oil filter flap graces the body below the right rear window.

Released as part of the E-series produced from 1969 to 1973, the 1972 911E offers greater comfort and drivability than its tamer 911T (Touring) and sportier 911S (Super) siblings. All three were launched when Porsche ruled the racetrack, making them extremely attractive to enthusiasts in Japan who maintain secondhand 911s with loving care.

The 911E’s air-cooled 2.4-liter engine (known as the 911/52) produces 167 horsepower, which nearly matches the 911S but at much lower revolutions (6200 rpm) for more practical everyday performance. Power comes on smoothly and effortlessly with the help of a 5-speed manual transmission featuring an H shift pattern in place of the previous dogleg. Performance figures include acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds and a top speed of around 140 mph.

Handling is excellent because Porsche increased suspension travel for better rough-road performance and shifted the center of weight forward to counter infamous snap oversteer tendencies.

The ride is quite comfortable, without compromising handling precision, and the interior is luxurious with its velour carpeting, leather-wrapped steering wheel, wide front seats and excellent fit and finish. The roof varies depending on whether you choose the covered coupe, coupe with sunroof or semi-convertible Targa.

When shopping for used 911s, you can almost always find better deals in Japan, where vehicles are more meticulously cared for and available in an incredible range of choices.

1983 Porsche 911 SC Cabriolet

The first 911 convertible

Used Porsche 911s are always thrilling to drive, but they become even more exciting when fully open to the wind and sunshine — as first demonstrated by the 1983 Porsche 911 SC (Super Carrera) Cabriolet.

Production convertibles had become a dying breed by the late 1970s, but the success of aftermarket convertibles and the inspiration of a company executive spurred Porsche to exhibit a 911 cabriolet concept car in 1981. This concept car stirred up so much excitement with the press and public that Porsche decided to manufacture its first convertible Porsche 911.

The resulting Porsche 911 SC Cabriolet, released in 1982 as “the world’s fastest convertible,” was extremely well received. Its introduction coincided with a worldwide convertible revival that boosted sales not only in Europe and the United States, but also in Japan where some of the best deals on secondhand models are found today.

The Porsche 911 SC Cabriolet was fast for its time thanks to a normally aspirated 3.0-liter SOHC flat-six engine with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection and 5-speed manual transmission. It generates 180 hp at 5500 rpm with a 7000-rpm redline, travels from 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of somewhere around 130 mph. Handling is excellent, despite some infamous 911 oversteer, and ventilated 11-inch disc brakes provide solid stopping performance.

Used Porsche 911 SCs are among the most affordable air-cooled 911s, but their prices have been rising and the Cabriolet model is particularly attractive to collectors because it represents a milestone in the history of Porsche. Some of the finest examples in near mint condition have been exported from Japan to collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

Seeking a used Porsche 911 for excitement or as an investment likely to deliver higher returns than the stock market? The 1983 Porsche 911 SC Cabriolet is a good choice and Japan Car Direct has the right connections with specialty used car dealers, private sellers and used car auctions throughout Japan to find you the best deal.

Two of the many models exported by Japan Car Direct

1988 Porsche 930 Turbo

Iconic power and style

From round headlamps to air-cooled engine and “tea tray” spoiler, this 1988 Porsche 930 Turbo coupe offers the classic Porsche 911 looks and performance that enthusiasts crave. We obtained this JDM model a few years ago through a Japanese used car auction and exported it to an ecstatic customer abroad for a very reasonable price. It features a 3.3-liter flat-six engine delivering 0 to 60 mph acceleration in about 5 seconds; a 4-speed manual transmission that lets you take full advantage of the 282 hp and 278 lb-ft torque; precision handling that tests your skills when pushing it around corners; and plenty of power amenities for comfortable motoring.

1989 Porsche 930 Turbo

The last of the classic 911 Turbos

Here’s another classic, fun-to-drive Porsche 930 we exported from Japan to a happy customer overseas. Being a turbo model, it reminds the world of its powerfully boosted 3.3-liter engine via big flared rear fenders. Just looking at those sporty curves makes any car fanatic’s adrenaline rise. Behind the wheel, enjoy 0 to 60 acceleration in 4.9 seconds, a top speed of 162 mph and phenomenally effective braking that helps keep everything under control. Become the envy of your neighborhood and the center of attention in every parking lot. Make friends and influence people wherever you go by owning the last of the top-of-the-line classic 911 Turbos — the 1989 Porsche 930 Turbo.

Why Japan Car Direct?

Before buying a used Porsche 911 or other used JDM foreign car, be sure to compare what you can get in your home country with what you can import from Japan. We’re confident the Japanese used car market will become your focus.

Then consider the helpful service and unrivaled experience of Japan Car Direct. We’re a licensed dealer with membership in every major used car auction in Japan. We also acquire used vehicles at wholesale prices from specialty used car dealers throughout the land. Lean and well informed with over a dozen years of experience, we professionally handle all your needs at a set service fee and customers can win for less than their max bid. A scan of the winning bid is sent to customers for every win. The lower our customers can win for the happier we all are!

Whether you seek an air-cooled used Porsche 911, used JDM German luxury car, or other used JDM foreign car with left or right hand drive, Japan Car Direct can help you satisfy your dreams while making a solid investment. Please contact us today and discover the possibilities.

We look forward to hearing from you!