Andy Gaunt Melborne, Australia
Model 964 C4 Year 1990 Acquired MAY 2017
For anyone planning to spend their summer at the beach, the unseasonably cool days have probably been a source of immense frustration. But for those of us looking to enjoy their air-cooled 911 in the twisties, the weather couldn’t have been better.
My 964 has been driving beautifully and I’ve enjoyed a trouble-free summer. The only money I’ve spent was on a minor cosmetic upgrade. I’ve been on a bit of a hunt for the perfect exhaust tip – not as easy as you might imagine. I’m happy to report that the Cargraphic exhaust tip I purchased in January is both the perfect fit and finish to set off Little Green’s rear end.
Anyway, back to the driving. Last time around, I described how much I enjoy an unplanned, solo drive. The opposite is also true. Driving with a group brings its own excitement. I love the thought of a Sunday pre-dawn cruise to an agreed meeting spot, knowing that great roads and laughs await. With that in mind, I recently put the call out via our group chat for a Sunday morning run up the much-loved Reefton Spur.
As I did my best to drive quietly from our garage, the rain started with an ominous feeling of permanence. Sure enough, as our small group assembled at the usual bakery, the drizzle was light but gaining weight. By the time we left, it was rain. I’m quite comfortable driving in the wet, having been consistently amazed by the C4’s tenacious grip in testing conditions. But after a few warm and windy days, the wet roads were slick and even the C4 had a moment or two.
By the time we reached Reefton, the roads were dry and clear. The road from Reefton is 40km of twisty blacktop with a huge variety of corner types: one moment tight and technical, the next open and flowing. The type of road where one car will have the advantage through one section and then another will come into its own on the next. It’s not a thoroughfare either, which means there’s rarely any traffic.
With five of us making the full trip, the group was the perfect size. Despite the occasional group of cyclists impeding progress, it was so good to be out on a road that tests driver and machine. My pal Anthony led me up the mountain in his 997.2. I just love the way that car looks from behind. Is the 997 the sweet spot in terms of size? Could be! Coming down the other side of the mountain into Marysville I found myself following Simon’s modified but understated SC. This car’s a bit of a sleeper, with only its perfect stance and exhaust note hinting at its high-performing underpinnings – oh, and the fact that it’s difficult to keep up with! Behind me was Al’s 996.1 Carrera, a beautiful, ever-present pursuer looming in my mirror.
The Marysville locals barely gave our group of Porsche a second glance
