Porsche 911 Carrera 2,7

The Carrera Coupé’s revised platform featured a shorter bonnet and impact bumpers—the front including recessed turn indicators for the first time—while inside there was increased cabin space and new front seats with integral headrests. The Coupé’s weight remained identical to that of the Carrera RS Touring, at 1,075 kilograms, affording near-identical performance figures including a top speed of 240 km/h. Significantly, the retention of the Mechanical Fuel Injection system ensured that both the superb throttle response and unmistakable sound of the RS remained. This marked the final time a Porsche road car would feature a mechanical—as opposed to electronic—system.

Remarkably, just 1,633 Carrera Coupés are believed to have been built between 1974 and 1976. This statistic renders them of comparable rarity to their illustrious predecessor. Readily identifiable as a mid-series, 1975-specification car by virtue of its “560” chassis number prefix, this example was delivered to its first owner via renowned Porsche dealer Mahag München on 21 February 1975. Appropriately finished in Metallic Silver with black interior, it benefitted from optional wider rear wheels, as well as headlight washers, an intermittent wash-wipe facility, leather Sport steering wheel and engine compartment light. Curiously, Porsche factory records attest to the car originally being configured with a four-speed gearbox in place of the more usual five-speed item.

Regrettably, very little is known about the car until it emerged from ownership in Bologna in mid-2017, when it joined The Carrera Collection. Exhibiting signs of an earlier restoration, crucially it retains its matching-numbers, and is supplemented by a toolkit, jack and space saver inflatable tyre. Boasting an irresistible combination of RS-inspired excitement and “G-series” practicality, recent years have invited a new-found and entirely justified public appreciation for the Carrera Coupé. As such, this magnificent example would be a worthy addition to any committed Porsche collection.