Classic Porsche 911 For Sale – The Evolution of a Masterpiece

Model Histories / Classic Porsche 911, Porsche, Porsche 911

1969 Porsche 911SIf you ask someone to think of a Porsche, likelihood is that they’ll think of a Porsche 911. The lineage of the model is impressively long, acting as the flagship Porsche for over half a century. But it is the classic Porsche 911, only made for the first 10 years of production (from 1963-74), that still grabs the eye today.

The original Porsche 911 was developed as a successor to the 356; Porsche’s first model of car and a much smaller, less powerful machine overall. Plans to name the replacement the 901 were thwarted by Peugeot, who claimed copyright over 0 in the middle – and forcing Porsche to use the now classic moniker.

For the next decade, the 911 was tweaked and varied, with new additions to the 911 family resulting in 3 basic categories: the lower end 911T, mid-range 911E and high end 911S. With the models and design tenets set out, Porsche could spend the early 1970s honing the performance of the classic Porsche 911 for sale, upgrading the engines of all types of 911 from the earlier 2.2 litre up to 2.34 (known as the 2.4L model, a misnomer since the capacity was closer to 2.3). That meant impressive increases in power across the board, with the 911T going from 123HP to 130, the 911E increasing to 165HP from 153, and the 911S jumping 10HP to an output of 190.

The transmission was first improved to match the newer, more powerful engines. That meant the old ‘dog leg’ transmission was removed (a key difference between pre and post-1972 models), and replaced with the standard ‘H’ layout familiar to most modern drivers. Reasons for this change are up for debate, with some believing it was to make the car better for city drivers and some favouring the opinion that it was for better race performance.

Most importantly, though, this was the time when Porsche put in the most effort to improving the 911’s handling, and rectifying the oversteer issues that come with placing so much weight over the rear axle. Moving the oil tank forward and adding a spoiler to the front of the car were just some of the methods attempted.

It worked, as the 1973 models of classic Porsche 911 for sale are the most sought after in the classic car market. Any collector willing to look beyond that particular year shouldn’t have too many problems, however, as the popularity and success of classic Porsche 911s means that there are usually plenty on the market.

Porsche 911 

It doesn’t take a serious car expert to know about the iconic 911 series from Porsche. 

Let’s dive into the 911’s storied history before highlighting some critical models of the famous line. 

911 Early History 

911’s served as the successor to the Porsche 356. It didn’t take long for Porsche’s new series to make an impact among car enthusiasts. The first 911 prototype was shown at the Frankfurt IAA Motor Show in 1963 as the 901 and was soon renamed the 911 for market release in 1964. 

An air-cooled six-cylinder flat engine with two-liter displacement added up to 130 hp and an impressive top speed of 130 miles per hour. Those looking for a less powerful Porsche soon had the option of picking up the four-cylinder Porsche 912. 

In 1966, Porsche revealed the 160 hp 911 S featuring forged alloy wheels from Fuchs, the first of its kind. The 911 Targa debuted in late 1966 as the first-ever safety cabriolet. 

Semi-automatic Sportomatic four-speed transmission made an appearance in the 911 lineup in 1967. 911 T models helped Porsche become the first German manufacturer to comply with strict US exhaust emission control regulations. As displacement increased, Porsche 911’s gained power. 

1972 911 Carrera RS models are the definition of a dream car with 210 hp and weighing less than 1000 kg. Rear spoilers additionally made their first appearance on a vehicle with the introduction of 1972 911 Carrera RS models. 

1973 G-Series: A Major Success

1973 G-Series vehicles received a significant do-over as Porsche had been producing 911 models for ten years with positive results. Built from 1973-1989, the 1973 G-Series was constructed longer than any other 911 generation. 

Standard crash standards were met in the United States with the G-Series’ prominent bellow bumpers. Headrests and three-point safety belts helped boost the overall protection of G-Series occupants as well. 

Power was defined through Porsche’s release of the 1974 911 Turbo with a three-liter 260 hp engine that was complimented by a massive rear spoiler. Luxury and performance with the 911 Turbo helped define Porsche’s image in 1974. 

1977 led to 300 hp with the Porsche Turbo 3.3 equipped with a charge-air cooler. Open-air drivers could enjoy 911 cabriolet models in 1982. Ending the successful G-Series was the 911 Carrera Speedster that served to carry on the tradition and spirit of previously unbeaten Porsche vehicles. 

1988 Introduction of All-Wheel Drive

Alternately named the 964, in 1988, Porsche released the 911 Carrera 4. What made the 964 unique was 85 percent new components that led to a more modern and sustainable vehicle. Nine hundred sixty-four engines delivered a solid 250 hp. 

While the 964 only differed slightly on an external level from its predecessors, aerodynamic polyurethane bumpers and an automatic extending rear spoiler were added. Technical differences were what marked the introduction of a new Porsche with the 964. 

Sporty performance and enhanced comfort served as a lethal combo for 964 models. ABS, power steering, airbags, and a redesigned chassis had consumers captivated. 

All-wheel drive Carrera 4 models was a revolutionary addition to the 911 line from the start.

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