Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7

It has now been 40 years since Stuttgart blessed the world with what is to many people the greatest Porsche of all time: the 1973 911 Carrera RS 2.7. With subtle rear fender flares, thinner gauge body panels and glass, unique fiberglass front and rear fascias, a spartan interior, and a one of a kind ducktail spoiler it is certainly all business—and pure function that dictates beautiful form. With just 1580 of these track terrors floating around the world, it is a rare beast indeed.

Porsche had dominated the world’s racetracks with the purpose built 917 race car, but when rule changes made that car obsolete Porsche decided to go after greener pastures in sports car racing. The RS 2.7 was a homologation special meant to allow them to compete in what was the precursor to today’s FIA GT racing series. The rules required that 500 examples be sold to the public before a car could qualify, and Porsche’s management had such little faith in the company’s ability to find the buyers required that they demanded that every Porsche executive take on an RS as their private car.

They needn’t have worried. After the unveiling at the 1972 Paris Auto Show the RS sold out completely in less than a week. This strong demand prompted Porsche to release another batch of 500, and another 500 after that—including a slightly more comfortable “Touring” model that added some creature comforts back in.

In its first year of competition the car dominated. The racing version of the RS (the RSR 2.8) handily won its debut race at the Daytona 24 Hours, beating the likes of the 4.4 litre Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Competizione and the 7 litre Corvettes. It would eventually go on to win seven German titles and three international championships, including the GT championship it was designed for.

The RS 2.7 has been a collector’s car practically from its introduction, and easily commands $450,000 at auction today. This speaks to the enduring qualities built into this car – it is the most concentrated form of Porsche. The 911 Carrera RS 2.7 was and remains a legend.

Though a true RS is not the easiest to find, you might be inspired to check out early 911s, such as the ones here on eBay.

Photo Sources: Porsche.com & GoodingCo.com