1973 Porsche 911T

The Porsche 911 arrived in 1964, replacing the 356, but retaining its predecessor's rear-engine layout, but switched to unitary construction for the body shell and dropped the 356's Volkswagen-based suspension in favor of a more modern McPherson strut and trailing arm arrangement. Initially, the single-overhead-camshaft, air-cooled flat-six displaced 1,991cc and produced 130 horsepower. The engine was progressively enlarged and developed, eventually growing to more than three liters and, in turbocharged configuration, would deliver over 300 horsepower.

The Porsche 911S was introduced in 1966, the first of a multitude of upgrades the 911 would enjoy throughout its history. Distinguishable features included the Fuchs five-spoke alloy wheels, a heavily revised engine delivering 160 horsepower, and a top speed of 135 mph (an increase of 10 mph). The handling was improved in 1969 by virtue of a lengthened wheelbase, and the following year, the engine underwent the first of many enlargements - to 2.2 liters.

Beginning in 1967, the 911T (Touring) was the new base model, initially equipped with the two-liter engine in 110 horsepower form before gaining the 2.2-liter unit in 1969. Power in the 911T increased from 125 bhp to 130 bhp with the introduction of the 2.4-liter engine for 1972. Bosch's newly developed fuel injection system called CIS was adapted to the engine in the latter part of 1973, increasing output to 140bhp. The CIS system would continue in use in later 911 models for the next decade.

The 1973 Porsche 911T was offered as a coupe or Targa with 2+2 seating. The Coupe had a base price of just under $8,000, and the Targa listed for $8,770 (USD). The horizontally opposed, overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine was backed by a four-speed manual in the rear transaxle, with a five-speed manual or four-speed Sportomatic optional. Disc brakes at all four corners provided the stopping power. The wheelbase measures 89.4 inches, a length of 168.4 inches, a height of 52 inches, and a width of 63.4 inches.

by Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2020