Porsche 911 T

Das Fahrzeug im Detail

BACKGROUND

Porsche launched the 911 T (Touring) in 1968, as its new entry-level model, alongside the new L and S models. Fittingly, it received a 2-litre, 110bhp version of the flat-six, air cooled engine, fed by triple downdraught, Weber carbs and with a choice of 4/optional 5 speed manual, or sportomatic transmission. Performance was brisk, with a top-speed of 124mph and 0-60 taking 10 secs. For 1969 on all models, it is well publicised that the wheelbase was extended by 2 inches to help stabilise the cars through corners, but a little less known fact is that Porsche was obsessed with weight saving at the time and managed to reduce the overall kerb weight by 55KG to a 1020KG, ensuring the 0-60mph dash was reduced by half a second as well.

For the 1970 model year, all variants saw an engine capacity increase to 2.2-litres. This correspondingly gave the 911 T a power boost to 125bhp, and a top speed of 127mph. The engine displacement was further increased to 2.4 litres for 1972, however, so was the kerb weight as improved rust protection, equipment and new heavier 915 gearbox was introduced, ensuring performance remained the same. Today the 2.2 series is for many the sweet spot of the early 911 line up, featuring the longer wheelbase, yet retaining the mechanical charm of the earlier cars including the type 901 `dog leg` 5 speed gearbox. These elements together with the lightest chassis of any volume production 911 ensure whichever variant you choose, they are delicate, informative, and responsive to drive.

For years the T was the cheapest way into 911 ownership which also meant it was ripe for modifying, hot rodding and general RS plagiarism too. Some were updated to impact bumper spec and a lot were just plain unloved. The result is that a good 911 T now, is something of a rarity/curio and is ultimately as respected and sought after as any early 911, something that’s reflected by the market.

DESCRIPTION

Which brings us to this rather bright looking example. It’s a RHD 1971 model T, so comes with the full 2.2-litres and 125bhp. It also hails from South Africa and was imported in to the UK in 1998, with the benefits of the SA climate. While there is no history from its pre-UK life, there is a bulging service/history file documenting its time in the UK. And it is a matching numbers example too.

In terms of the classic 911 look, it ticks all the boxes, the Porsche Certificate of Authenticity says it was originally supplied in burgundy, however the current hue of Polo Red is period correct and suits it perfectly. Dig deep under the bonnet and there is some evidence of its original colour meaning it would be a relatively easy task to return it back to original if preferred. Optional deep 6” Fuchs as fitted to the E and S naturally complete the look and the black interior is the perfect match.

This T has had four UK owners and the mileage currently stands at 96,900-kms, which we believe to be accurate, based on the MOT trail. Mileage in recent years has been low, covering just 12,000-kms since 2006.

We would be the last to say that it’s perfect, however the paintwork is very presentable with some evidence of the blemishes and imperfections, but commensurate with a 50-year-old car. The interior is still sharp too, the seats, door cards and carpets still being particularly nice. The external brightwork is also excellent, whilst structurally and mechanically it is very sound, abelite with a few oil leaks now.

On the road, it drives very well, still feeling nippy, light, and responsive. Short term, the oil leaks will need to be monitored but ideally, an engine rebuild will be needed to rectify these. We estimate this to be about £10,000.00 and a prospective buyer may decide this to be well worth doing now, rather than later.

The 911T has aways been the affordable way into early 911 ownership and with the equivalent RHD 911S commanding around 100k more today, the gap is wider than ever.

A RHD 911 2.2 T Coupe is a rare sight today and we have priced this example competitively in the acknowledgement it is not the perfect specimen. However, it is a car that can purchased right now to be used and enjoyed immediately, whilst keeping an eye on the future in terms of work and expenditure. And when the time is chosen to rebuild the engine, of course this can be enhanced with more power, giving S performance and looks except with a fraction of financial the outlay.