1973 Porsche 911 RS Carrera Coupe

In 1973, Porsche resurrected a celebrated name in honor of its 911 series - Carrera. Carrera evoked Porsche's earlier racing successes in the 50s. A total of 1,536 1973 Porsche Carrera RSs were produced in 1973.

The new Carrera was based on the 911S, but it sported a 2.7-liter engine. The RS version (Rennsport) was for racing, while the other two versions, RST specifically for touring and RSR built for uncompromising competitive performance. The 2.7RS represented Porsche's desire to construct a car intended for racing and had a purchase price of $10,300 in 1973.

Blazing along at 155 mph (o to 60 in 5.5 seconds), with 210 horsepower out of a flat-six engine, the Carrera 2.7 made its mark as the fastest 911 in the Porsche stable - turbo or no turbo. Speed was achieved by building the car with as much plastic and aluminum as was structurally feasible. Like Porsche's successful 917 CanAm, the Carrera is equipped with ventilated disc brakes.

The Carrera RS is a unique, limited edition model that has become, perhaps, the most important of all 911 models. Meaning 'race' in Spanish, it was the first Porsche 911 model to carry the name 'Carrera'. In addition, 'RS', which stands for Rennsport in German, further indicates the automobile is meant for speed!

Every conceivable facet of the Carrera RS construction was scrutinized for ways to reduce weight. Beginning with the interior, most of the soundproofing was removed and the regular lush carpet was replaced with lightweight black felt. The door panels simply have a leather strap to operate the latches and only a small plastic handle to pull the doors closed. To further reduce weight, there is no passenger-side sun visor, no glove box door, no rear seats, no radio and no clock. Lightweight body panels & glass were used, along with fiberglass & plastic where possible. A decal even replaces the usual metal Porsche badge on the hood! While cruising in the lightweight bucket seats you'd see why this 911 Carrera needs no clock: its performance is measured with a stopwatch!

The RS 2.7 was bored out 6 millimeters to 60 millimeters and combined with a higher compression ratio. Different carburetion (fuel injection) and performance timing delivered 210 BHP @ 6300 RPM. It is also the first Porsche to wear a rear 'Ducktail' spoiler. This helped maintain the car's superb handling up to its top speed of 153 MPH!

There were only 1,580 cars produced for European markets. Many are still racing today in vintage series around the world. This car was originally delivered in Germany, imported into the United States in 1984 and was totally restored.

Today the Carrera RS is highly sought after by Porsche collectors. It's precision handling, high-revving motor, and classic lines are what makes this the 'holy grail' of early 911s.