First developed to homologate the 911 for Group 4 racing, the Carrera RS 2.7 marked many firsts for Porsche. Launched in 1972, customers could choose from Touring and Lightweight models, both of which offered significant performance and weight savings over the standard 911S. Weight savings came by way of lighter-gauge sheet metal, thinner window glass, and the now-iconic, fiberglass “ducktail” spoiler – the first model to feature the option. Bolstering the newly introduced ducktail spoiler were wider wheel arches and larger tires, now synonymous with Porsche RS models.

Its power increase came from a larger, 2,681 cc flat-six engine with Bosch mechanical fuel injection, which produced 210 bhp, and allowed for a notable 0–60 time of 5.8 seconds – the fastest German production car at the time. Debuting the “Carrera RS” nameplate, just 1,590 examples were built, making it one of the most coveted sports cars of all time.

Optioned in Touring trim, chassis 9113600491 was delivered to its first owner on February 1, 1973. Among the earliest of the 2.7 RS’ built, this car is desirable as it is a first-series model, which possesses lightweight features not found on later examples. It left the factory wearing Light Yellow paint and a Black leatherette interior, and it was subsequently kept in Germany for the first 25 years of its life. Although there is minimal documentation on its early life, the car was kept in storage for at least 10 years prior to being imported to the UK.

At the time of import, the RS showed just 38,000 km, reportedly in original condition. Upon arrival, an extensive refresh and servicing was undertaken, including a rebuilt clutch, new seals, and new tires.

Shortly after servicing, the car was sold to Carlos de Quesada of Alegra Motorsports, who imported it to the US in 2000. Once in the US, where it spent short stints in Florida, New York, and California, the RS was used sparingly and minimal mileage was added. By 2004, the car was sold to its current owner, where it joined a notable collection of air- and water-cooled Porsches.

After nearly 15 years of ownership and continued upkeep, a no-expense-spared, three-year restoration was performed in 2021. Disassembled and stripped down to its bare metal, the RS received a fresh coat of Light Yellow paint and Black “Carrera” script. Additionally, the matching-numbers type 911/83 engine and five-speed manual transaxle were rebuilt. Documented by a wealth of photographs, the result is a spectacular, concours-quality finish.

The 1973 RS 2.7 remains one of the most coveted sports cars by enthusiasts and collectors alike. Now fully restored and offered with its Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, this striking example is an ideal candidate for the next vintage rally or concours event.