Porsche 911 E

It was a landmark day in the world of sports cars. On 12 September 1963, the new 901 took pride of place on Porsche’s stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Due to a trademark dispute with Peugeot – which objected to the model having a zero as the middle number – the machine was quickly renamed 911... and a legend was created.

The 1973 example you see here represents the initial production run, which lasted from 1964 to 1973.

It ended when new American safety regulations were introduced. In order to conform with the rules, Porsche brought out the black-bumper generation – and the early 911 shape was consigned to history.

As a result, the simple lines of the car pictured here are arguably the purest of all. And its appeal was immortalised on film when Steve McQueen drove a 1970 911 S through the deserted, tree-lined roads of France in the opening scenes of the film Le Mans. The Porsche then endeared itself to race fans when Vic Elford powered one to victory in the 1968 Monte Carlo rally. As a result, for many, the older a 911 is, the better.

As the debut model was produced for nearly a decade, there’s a huge range of variants, costing anything from £15,000 to £250,000. Later examples have wider wheelbases, and there were plenty of engine options. Early cars featured 2.0-litre units, which were succeeded by 2.2 and 2.4 versions.

There’s a choice of Targa, E, T and S designations, and Porsche fans can argue for days over which is best. The classic Coupé shape is our preference, though. Its beautifully flowing lines, combined with the delicate detailing of the metal door handles, chrome bumpers and narrow tail-lights, all add to the attraction. The model in our photographs is a 1973 2.4-litre E that’s been stiffened, lowered and fitted with a set of Fuchs forged alloys. When the car was restored in 1991, the engine was upgraded to S-spec – and the result is for sale at Porsche specialist AutoFarm for £30,000.

However, it’s not only the styling that makes the first-generation 911 so desirable. From behind the wheel, the Porsche feels light, agile and fast. And the noise of the air-cooled boxer engine sitting behind the driver guarantees an on-road experience few classic cars can match.

Even today, the DNA of the classic original 911 is clearly evident in the latest 997 generation – and that’s something not many other motor manufacturers have achieved.

Owner profile by Josh Sadler
The appeal of the original 911 is clear to Josh, who owns Oxfordshire Porsche specialist AutoFarm. “Turn in on trailing brakes, feel the engine weight begin to take charge – then floor the throttle!” he beams.

“With the back wheels biting harder from increased weight transfer, you simply balance throttle with grip, and the Porsche launches you from the corner in a way no other car can.”

Josh’s showroom is in Weston-on-the-Green, where this example is currently available for £30,000.