1974 Porsche 911 T

Description

This 1974 Porsche 911T wears the look that would practically define the brand in a generation of car lovers. Thanks to new federal bumper restrictions, the nose and tail were redesigned, and the 911 is perhaps the most successful implementation of the Feds' meddling of all time. With its original 2.7-liter engine and a classic 911 look there's a lot to love here, all at a very reasonable price.

Originally some '70s shade called "Ice Green," this sleek 911 now sports a more appropriate and timeless light silver-blue that's both elegant and sporting, perfect for the early T. Even in the '70s, Porsche's build quality was impressive, and the shut of the doors, the sharp snap of the trunk latch, and the excellent gaps are evidence of care. There are a few signs of age and use that might need attention sooner or later, but at this price, it's hard to go wrong. As promised, the federalized bumpers are well-integrated, painted body color and framing new parking lights in front and a wrap-around taillight assembly in back. There are still a few bright trim pieces which seem appropriate on an early 911 like this, including stainless window surrounds and lovely chrome headlight rings that give it an old-school look that's quite appealing. If you like the narrow hips of an early 911 and the clean, chiseled hood line, the '74 might be the purest of the breed.

The black bucket seat interior defies age, as Porsches looked like this for more than two decades. High-back buckets are wrapped in black vinyl and look great, and the no-frills attitude is quite evident here. However, that isn't to say it is also low-rent, because the materials are high-grade and the workmanship is quite good. The carpets, rear seat, dash pad, headliner, and visors appear to be original, so you know this car has led a pretty easy life someplace dry. The gauges are the same classic look you get today, so Porsche knows a few things about tradition, and the steering wheel with its 3-pointed horn button should look familiar to anyone who's driven a 911 in the past 30 years or so. Note that the speedometer has been clocked so that 60 MPH is pointing straight up, a racer's trick that makes it easy to read at a glance, and there's an upgraded AM/FM/CD stereo living in the dash today. There's also reasonable storage under the front deck lid, so the 911 is practical as well as sporting.

The 3.0-liter flat-six has that traditional Porsche sound, and while the horsepower doesn't seem outrageous, the way the car works is simply a joy. You can use almost all of that power, working the car hard without getting yourself in trouble, and running it at, say, 9/10s is one of motoring's finest pleasures. This car also carries the optional and highly desirable 5-speed manual transmission which combines with a precise but supple suspension and powerful 4-wheel disc brakes to make this a true driver's car. A glance underneath doesn't raise any alarm bells, although it's quite original, and original Fuchs alloys carry 195/60/15 Falken radials.

A bargain-priced 911 that's a joy to drive and doesn't look like you're trying too hard. If you're truly a Porschephile, this is the kind of car you've always loved. Call today!