Cars Dawydiak is a Bay Area dealership specializing in classic Porsche sport cars, from early 356 and 912 models to air-cooled 911s and front-engine 928s. It sits in Corte Madera, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Each car is backed by an in-house Porsche service department, a restoration shop, and a body shop.
This guide compares the classic Porsche generations you’ll find at a San Francisco-area dealership. It covers model years, engines, and horsepower, so you can pick the right car before you visit.
Why Buy a Classic Porsche in the San Francisco Bay Area?
Northern California is one of the best places in the country to find a classic Porsche. The mild climate is kind to old metal. Cars here tend to see less rust and less winter salt than cars from the Northeast or Midwest.
Local roads also suit the cars. Think Highway 1 to Stinson Beach, the Marin Headlands, and the climb up Mount Tamalpais. A light, balanced Porsche feels at home on all of them.
A dealership that also services and restores Porsches gives you more peace of mind. Cars Dawydiak offers:
- Pre-purchase inspections before you commit
- Porsche service and repair by an in-house team
- Classic Porsche restoration and collision repair
- Financing and consignment options
- Sell-to-us offers if you’re trading up
Classic Porsche Models Compared: Years and Specs
Here is how the main classic Porsche generations stack up. Figures are approximate factory ratings and vary by market and trim.
| Model | Years | Engine | Approx. Power | Best For |
| Porsche 356 SC | 1963–1965 | 1.6L air-cooled flat-4 | 95 hp | Pure vintage Porsche heritage |
| Porsche 912 | 1965–1969 | 1.6L air-cooled flat-4 | 90 hp | Affordable entry to 911 styling |
| Early Porsche 911 / 911S | 1965–1973 | 2.0–2.4L air-cooled flat-6 | 130–190 hp | Collectors and purists |
| Porsche 911SC | 1978–1983 | 3.0L air-cooled flat-6 | ~180 hp | Durable, usable classic |
| Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 | 1984–1989 | 3.2L air-cooled flat-6 | ~207 hp (US) | The classic all-rounder |
| Porsche 964 | 1989–1994 | 3.6L air-cooled flat-6 | 247 hp | Modern comfort, classic feel |
| Porsche 993 | 1995–1998 | 3.6L air-cooled flat-6 | 270–285 hp | The last air-cooled 911 |
| Porsche 944 Turbo | 1986–1991 | 2.5L turbocharged inline-4 | 217–250 hp | Value-focused front-engine fun |
| Porsche 928 | 1978–1995 | 4.5–5.4L V8 | 219–345 hp | Grand touring comfort |
Model-by-Model Breakdown
Porsche 356 and 912: The Foundation
The Porsche 356 SC is where the brand’s story begins. It is light and simple, with an air-cooled 1.6-liter four-cylinder making about 95 horsepower. It rewards smooth driving rather than raw speed.
The Porsche 912 wears the 911’s body with a four-cylinder engine. It delivers the same classic shape at a gentler price.
Early 911 and 911SC: The Air-Cooled Icons
Early Porsche 911 models from 1965 to 1973 grew from 130 horsepower to about 190 in 911S form. They are the most collectible cars on this list. They are also the most hands-on to drive.
The 911SC (1978–1983) is the sweet spot for many buyers. Its 3.0-liter flat-six makes about 180 horsepower and has a reputation for toughness.
911 Carrera 3.2, 964, and 993: Peak Air-Cooled Usability
The 911 Carrera 3.2 (1984–1989) keeps the classic look and adds real everyday reliability. Later cars gained the stronger G50 five-speed gearbox.
The 964 (1989–1994) brought power steering, ABS, and available all-wheel drive. It makes 247 horsepower from a 3.6-liter flat-six.
The 993 (1995–1998) is the final air-cooled 911. It adds a multi-link rear suspension and up to 285 horsepower, so it drives more modern than any earlier 911. Many collectors consider it the best of the era.
944 Turbo and 928: Front-Engine Alternatives
The 944 Turbo offers balanced handling and strong turbo power at a friendlier entry price than most 911s.
The 928 is the grand tourer of the group. Its V8 ranges from 219 horsepower in early cars to 345 in the late GTS. It suits long drives to Napa, Sonoma or Tahoe.
How to Choose the Right Classic Porsche
- Want the purest experience? Look at a 356 SC or an early 911.
- Want a daily-friendly classic? Look at a 911 Carrera 3.2 or a 964.
- Want a blue-chip collectible? Look at a 993 or a well-documented early 911.
- Want comfort and V8 power? Look at a 928.
- Want value? Look at a 912 or a 944 Turbo.
Whichever you choose, ask for service records and a pre-purchase inspection. On a 30- or 40-year-old car, condition and history matter more than the model year.
What to Check Before You Buy
Model year is only part of the story. On a 30- or 40-year-old car, condition and history matter more. Before you commit, review these points:
- Service records: A thick folder of receipts is a good sign. Gaps deserve questions.
- Rust and previous repairs: Even California cars need a close look at floors, rocker panels, and suspension mounting points.
- Engine and transmission health: Listen for unusual noises and check for oil leaks, which are common on air-cooled engines.
- Originality: Matching numbers, correct parts, and documented restorations affect long-term value.
- A professional inspection: Ask for a pre-purchase inspection from a Porsche specialist.
An in-house service department makes this step easier. The same team that inspects the car can also maintain it after you drive it home.
Living With a Classic Porsche in Marin and San Francisco
Classic Porsches reward regular use. Weekend runs over the Golden Gate Bridge, a drive up to Mount Tamalpais, or a coastal trip along Highway 1 keep the car healthy and keep you smiling. Pair that with routine service and sensible storage, and these cars hold up well for years.
If you plan to upgrade later, consignment and trade-in options give you a clear path forward.
Find Your Classic Porsche in the Bay Area
The right classic Porsche is out there, and a Bay Area dealership that sells, services, and restores them is the best place to start.
Browse our current Porsche inventory at Cars Dawydiak to schedule a test drive.
