As one of the longest-lived sports cars in automotive history, part of the Porsche 911’s enduring appeal is its link to the past and adherence to tradition. But while it has stayed true to the concepts that made the original 911 such a success—most notably the positioning of its powerplant—the model has been in a constant state of evolution from the moment the first examples left the gates of Zuffenhausen.
Incremental improvements were made to everything from brake upgrades to a lengthened wheelbase, but one of the most significant changes arrived in 1972. The venerable air-cooled flat-six was subject to an increase in capacity to 2,341 cc allied to Bosch mechanical fuel injection, increasing total output to 190 horsepower. Subtle changes to weight distribution improved balance, while a purposeful chin spoiler contributed to better aerodynamic characteristics at high speed.
According to factory records, chassis 9112300601 was constructed for the 1972 model year, and was sold new to Bologna, Italy on 25 January. The car is understood to have spent most of its life in Italy, passing through the hands of three owners before finding a long-term home in 1983. The car was offered for sale in August 2016, with the advertisement stating that the car had been subject to a “Turbo-look” update in the early 1980s prior to being raced, but had subsequently been returned to its factory configuration by a number of specialists including Carrozzeria Serattini of Bologna. The Porsche was sold to a Swiss-based enthusiast in September 2016 and was subject to an additional CFH 30,000-worth of work at Vogt Classic in Zurich, prior to joining The Carrera Collection in August 2017.
Today, chassis 9112300601 presents in restored condition, having been refinished in Light Ivory over a black interior with smart houndstooth seat inserts. In addition to its factory-correct colour scheme, an accompanying Porsche Certificate of Origin confirms that the car retains its matching-numbers chassis and engine. A beautifully finished example in a popular colour combination, this desirable E-series 911 S 2.4 Coupé would be the perfect entry to classic Porsche ownership.