Was the sports car in danger of extinction in the early 1970s?
Was the sports car in danger of extinction in the early 1970s?
Due to a convergence of circumstances, it certainly briefly seemed so.
First we had the OPEC 1973 fuel crisis.
Was the sports car in danger of extinction in the early 1970s?
Due to a convergence of circumstances, it certainly briefly seemed so.
First we had the 1973 OPEC fuel crisis.
Arab states in the guise of the Organization of Arab Fuel Exporting Countries (OPEC) implemented a total oil embargo against any country that had supported Israel in the 1973 Yom Kippur war – ultimately the price of oil rose by 300 per cent! So not good for cars that only covered 12 to 15 miles to the gallon.
And on top of a series of new U.S. Federal laws – as well as ones specific to California – there were much tighter rules over exhaust emissions and crash resistance.
Porsche 911 fans were worried. Would the now 10-year-old car continue into a new incarnation? Or would that rumored four-seater project – the 928 – push the 911 off into oblivion? Well, as we know, Porsche is nothing but resilient. The Stuttgart company fought back and its engineers and stylists innovated their way out of the problems.
In 1974 exciting new 911 types appeared in motor-racing, like the 3.0-liter RSR for customers and the 2.8-liter Turbo Carrera – a 911 like no other. These were cars that would point their way to new chapters in the history of Porsche in racing and of the 911. In fact, due to the assorted crises, the production 911 was on the verge of a new lease of life and would find a new maturity in the changed economic climate of the remaining 1970s.
The 1973 model 911T for the United States had been the first Porsche to use the cleaner-running Bosch K-Jetronic injection, and this ingenious and effective system appeared on the new 2.7-liter 911 and 911S lines in 1974; it provided extra engine capacity combined with more fuel-efficient injection to give the 911 more flexibility, with better power delivery at low revs.
This allowed the 911 to meet the new American legislation for exhaust emissions.
The other change that had to be made for the 1974 models was the introduction of energy-absorbing bumpers to improve low-speed crash resistance. The Porsche stylists introduced impact bumpers, and by a clever mix of design and function, actually managed to lift the image of the 911.
The transformation of the Porsche 911 was complete. Sales steadied and then started to rise through the mid-1970s. The new 911 had defied its critics.
Right now at Beverly Hills Car Club we have a splendid example of this cultural shift, an extremely original 1975 Porsche 911 Carrera Sunroof Coupe featured with matching numbers and only 61,825 miles on the odometer.
This particular 911 is a one-of-one example that is finished in an exquisite and exclusive Paint-to-Sample Green (257), a color that not only highlights the car’s sleek and timeless lines but also sets it apart as a rarity. The vibrant green exterior is complemented by a Cinnamon interior, creating a striking contrast both elegant and sporty. The combination of these unique colors makes this vehicle a standout in any collection, appealing to both classic car enthusiasts and discerning collectors alike.
Adding to its allure, this 911 has been under the care of the same owner since 1985. This long-term ownership is a testament to the car’s reliability and the owner’s dedication to maintaining its current condition.
Such provenance is rare and adds significant value to the vehicle, ensuring that it has been cherished and well-preserved over the decades. With only 395 examples ever made, this particular 911 is #287, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item.
Our 911 is equipped with a 915 5-speed manual transmission, 2.7-liter Flat 6 Cylinder engine, sunroof, four-wheel disc brakes, single exhaust, VDO instrumentation, rear rubber bumperettes, 3-spoke steering wheel, Bosch fog lights, rear spoiler, Goodyear tires, and iconic 16-inch Fuchs style wheels. Inside you’ll find power windows, 2+2 split folding rear seats, Blaupunkt radio, fender-mounted antenna, analog clock, and more.
Included with the vehicle are receipt copies dating from February 1978 through July 2024, spanning an impressive 46 years. Notably, the car has undergone a recent service just 8 miles ago, at a total cost of $8,791.77, ensuring that it is in optimal condition and ready for the road.
For those seeking a classic Porsche that stands out from the rest, this 911 Carrera is an exceptional choice. Its unique features, combined with its well-documented history and outstanding condition, make it a valuable addition to any collection.
Visit us to experience this limited-production Carrera firsthand and take the opportunity to own a piece of Porsche’s storied legacy that is mechanically sound.
Not only was the sports car not in danger of extinction in the 1970s, you might say it was just getting started.
2 replies on “Car Tales: New Life, Porsche 911 Carrera Sunroof Coupe”
I truly enjoy waking on a Sunday morning in South Texas and finding this email( and your stories) in my inbox. I share it with another good friend that’s an enthusiast, (Austin Healey, Land Rover, Citroen)….keep it up Alex, well, done
Much appreciated Lee! We’re on to article #205 next week!