Unusually for a Porsche of this era, the history is well know. It was purchased by an engineer and Porsche enthusiast by the name of Arthur Hamilton. Along with fellow devotees to the marque, he formed the Porsche Club of New South Wales. Arthur’s son Ian established ‘Autohaus Hamilton’ in 1970, Sydney’s oldest Porsche independent garage, still going strong today. The 911 was Arthur’s daily driver for 12 years and during this time, he made a few changes in order to keep the car usable. Following Arthur’s death in 1978, Ian became the custodian of 300882, and even after its sale in 1979, it was maintained at Autohaus Hamilton and had a complete engine rebuild at their workshop.
Although it changed hands occasionally the 911 remained in New South Wales. During its life it underwent a full bare metal restoration at Graham Watson Restorations (Hornsby, Sydney) in 1993 and partial engine rebuild in 1998, again at Autohaus Hamilton. At 35 years of age, the 911 entered the millennium with another owner in Rushcutter’s Bay and lived there until 2006.
In 2006 it changed hands, to a serious enthusiast of Porsche and prominent lifetime member of the Porsche Club NSW. (He served as President, served on the committee for 20 years whilst his wife was Chair of the Porsche Nationals.) They were also milestone customers (33 years) of Autohaus Hamilton who again were entrusted with this 911.
This 911 had an unusual start to its life which makes it rather fascinating and unlike most classics from this period, it’s history is well known and documented. Many of these early cars have been lost, corroded into oblivion or are made up of components like grandfathers axe.
This one survived, with the original engine, transmission, colour. It has recently received an engine refresh and will travel through our own shop prior to delivery. It is very presentable with a nice finish to the original colour, the seats and dash feel comfortable, it is definitely NOT the over restored new old 911, this car oozes history.
It could be enjoyed with confidence for any journey. It is a pleasure to drive, making that characteristic 6 cylinder song, has a light and responsive feel, performance that is easy to access and thoroughly enjoyable. You really could head for the Alps, luggage loaded, GB sticker on the rear, maybe even take it for a trip back to Fulda……….
A Porsche that deserves to be preserved.
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