Few classic Porsches hold the enduring appeal of the long-bonnet 911, and fewer still combine the coveted one-year-only Ölklappe body with the iconic Targa configuration. Exclusive to the 1972 model year, the external oil filler flap has become the unmistakable hallmark of these cars, making them among the most desirable and collectible of the early air-cooled era. This example was originally delivered new to Germany in December 1971, finished in its original Hellgelb (Light Yellow) over black leather, a factory specification it proudly retains today.
Following many years in storage, the car was acquired in December 2021 before becoming the subject of a comprehensive, factory-correct restoration undertaken with an unwavering commitment to originality, authenticity and engineering integrity. Every aspect of the project was guided by a single objective: to return the car as faithfully as possible to the condition and specification in which it left the Porsche factory.
The restoration commenced with a complete strip-down to a bare shell, allowing every aspect of the body structure to be carefully assessed before rebuilding. Particular attention was given to panel fit, alignment and structural integrity, with genuine Porsche panels used extensively and wherever required to maintain correct factory appearance and authenticity. Once complete, the shell was refinished in its original Hellgelb, faithfully returning the car to its original specification.
At its heart remains the car’s original matching-numbers engine, comprehensively rebuilt to factory specification. Specialist machining and preparation of the engine case, including align honing to factory tolerances, was entrusted to one of the leading specialists in early Porsche 911 engine building as part of the restoration programme. The mechanically fuel-injected 2.4-litre flat-six has been restored to deliver the smooth, responsive character for which the 911E is renowned, while the suspension, transmission, braking and fuel systems have all been rebuilt to the same exacting standard.
Inside, the cabin has been restored with the same philosophy applied throughout the project. Finished in black leather, complete with its original dashboard, classic five-dial instrumentation and period-correct presentation.
Accompanying the vehicle is a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity confirming its original factory specification, together with an extensive history file comprising invoices, ownership records and supporting documentation accumulated throughout its life. The restoration itself is comprehensively documented through an extensive photographic and video archive recorded from acquisition through to completion, providing exceptional provenance and transparency.
Although exempt from MOT testing as a Historic Vehicle, the car has also recently passed an MOT inspection, offering further confidence in its condition and continued roadworthiness.Combining the rarity of the one-year-only 1972 Ölklappe with the timeless appeal of the Targa body style, matching numbers, original colour specification and an exceptionally well-documented restoration, this is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most distinctive and collectible long-bonnet 911s. It represents a motor car restored not simply to be admired, but to preserve the engineering, character and authenticity that have made the early Porsche 911 one of the defining sports cars of its era.
Highlights:
- One-year-only 1972 Ölklappe
- Matching-numbers engine
- Factory Targa configuration
- Original Hellgelb over black leather
- Factory-correct restoration (2021–2026)
- Extensive photographic & video restoration archive
- Porsche Certificate of Authenticity
Continue reading