1980 Porsche 911 Aftermarket Slant Nose Parts: The Complete Guide

The 1980 Porsche 911, part of the 911SC generation, is a beloved classic. But for many enthusiasts, the standard ‘whale tail’ and narrow body just don’t capture the aggressive, race-bred aesthetic of the 1970s 935 Turbo. That’s where aftermarket slant nose parts come in. A slant nose conversion – also called a flat nose or 935 style – transforms the front end with lowered fender lines, pop-up headlights, and a wide, purposeful stance. For the 1980 model, which has a galvanized body and strong mechanicals, adding these parts can create a stunning custom look that pays homage to Porsche’s endurance racing heritage. This guide covers the key components, considerations, and choices for your build.

Why Convert to Slant Nose?

The slant nose look originated with the Porsche 935, a turbocharged monster that dominated Le Mans and IMSA. Its distinctive dropped nose and integrated headlights were both aerodynamic and menacing. On a street car, the conversion updates the classic 911’s silhouette, giving it a far more modern and purpose-built appearance. It also often comes with wider fenders, allowing for wider tires and better handling. For the 1980 911, aftermarket parts make this achievable without cutting up your original metal – most kits are bolt-on or require minimal modification.

Essential Slant Nose Parts for the 1980 911

When assembling a slant nose conversion, you need several key components. Most suppliers offer complete kits, but you can also piece together parts to save money or customize the look.

Fender Kits (Front and Rear)

The most dramatic change comes from the front fenders. Slant nose front fenders have a much lower profile, with the headlights integrated into the fender’s leading edge rather than standing upright. They also incorporate a wider arch to accommodate fatter tires. For the rear, you’ll need flared rear fenders or quarter panels to match the width. Aftermarket fenders are typically made of fiberglass or carbon fiber. Fiberglass is more affordable and can be painted to match, while carbon fiber is lighter and offers a visible weave finish if left exposed. Expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,500 for a pair of front fenders, depending on material and brand.

Bumper Conversions

The standard 1980 911 has chrome or plastic bumpers that conflict with the slant nose’s low lines. Most conversions use a sleek, integrated front bumper cover that blends into the fenders and accepts a lower splitter. Rear bumpers are often replaced with a lightweight valance or turbo-style bumper that matches the wider arches. Some kits include bumper covers, so check before ordering separately.

Headlight and Turn Signal Assemblies

Slant nose headlights are a defining feature. Instead of the standard upright units, you get pop-up headlights that sit flush with the fender when off. These are usually electric or manual. Turn signals are often relocated to the bumper or integrated into the fender vents. Aftermarket headlight assemblies are available in halogen or LED, and you’ll need the correct wiring harness to connect them to your 1980’s electrical system. Many suppliers offer complete lamp kits with motors, brackets, and lenses.

Side Vents and Trim

To complete the 935 look, aftermarket side vents are installed behind the front wheels to release hot air from the brakes and engine. These vents are purely cosmetic but add authenticity. You may also need new rocker panels, side skirts, and a rear spoiler – often a large ‘whale tail’ or ducktail – to balance the aggressive front end. Some kits include aerokit-style trim pieces.

Key Considerations When Buying Aftermarket Slant Nose Parts

With many options on the market, you need to evaluate quality and fitment carefully.

Material Quality

Fiberglass is the most common material for aftermarket slant nose parts. It’s relatively inexpensive and easy to repair, but it can warp over time if not properly made. Look for parts with a thick gel coat and good reinforcement – avoid thin, flimsy pieces. Carbon fiber is more rigid and lightweight but expensive. Urethane is another option for bumpers; it’s flexible and less prone to cracking on street cars.

Fitment and Compatibility

A big challenge with slanted nose conversions is ensuring the parts align with your 1980 911’s chassis. The 911SC has a slightly different front suspension and bumper mounts compared to earlier models. Buy from manufacturers who specifically list compatibility with 1978–1983 911SC. Test-fit everything before paint. Some kits require cutting or drilling, while others are true bolt-on. Ask the supplier for installation manuals or customer experiences.

Reputation of Manufacturers

Stick with well-known aftermarket specialists who have been in the air‑cooled Porsche parts business for years. Brands like Rennline, Tuthill Porsche, and Aakus Design are respected for their fiberglass parts. Avoid generic eBay sellers with no track record – poor fitment can ruin the look and cost more in bodywork later. Check enthusiast forums for recommendations.

Installation: DIY vs. Professional

A full slant nose conversion is not a simple weekend job. It involves removing stock fenders, bumpers, and headlights; fitting the new parts; aligning body panels; wiring the pop‑up headlights; and painting. If you have experience with classic car bodywork and fabrication, you can tackle it yourself. Expect it to take 40–80 hours. If not, budget $3,000–$6,000 for a professional install. Many restoration shops specialize in air‑cooled 911s and can do the conversion complete with paint matching.

Cost Breakdown of a Slant Nose Conversion

Here’s a realistic cost range for a complete slant nose conversion using quality aftermarket parts for a 1980 Porsche 911:

• Front fenders (fiberglass pair): $1,500 – $2,500
• Rear flares (pair): $800 – $1,500
• Front bumper cover: $400 – $800
• Rear bumper or valance: $300 – $600
• Headlight assembly kit (with motors): $600 – $1,200
• Side vents and trim kit: $200 – $500
• Installation and paint (including bodywork): $3,000 – $6,000 Total: $6,800 – $13,000. This can vary widely depending on material choice (carbon fiber for all parts adds about 50%) and labor rates.

Final Recommendation – Choosing the Best Slant Nose Parts for Your 1980 Porsche 911

For most owners, a fiberglass front fender and rear flare kit from a reputable supplier like Rennline or a custom shop is the best balance of cost and quality. Pair it with a quality headlight conversion and a direct‑fit bumper cover. Prioritize fitment over brand: spend time on forums researching which kits have the fewest issues on the 911SC. If your budget allows, have a professional handle the installation and paint to ensure seamless panel gaps. Alternatively, consider a complete turnkey conversion from a specialist if you want a guaranteed result. The end result – a 1980 911 with the iconic slant nose – will turn heads and appreciate in value if done properly.