1966 Porsche 911 2.0-litre 'SWB' Coupé

The earliest/original production run Porsche 911 cars - Model Years 1965-67 inclusive (known as the 'zero model range' before the 'A-Series' began with Model Year 1968) - are now considered very pure, featuring a short wheelbase (which lasted only until 1969) that gave a simple yet elegant profile; the original generation of 911 (known, somewhat confusingly, in places as 'Urmodell' or 'F-Modell' cars) were a step-change evolution over the out-going 356, utilising the newly developed and more powerful 1,991cc flat-six 'boxer' engine, unitary construction for the bodyshell and a more modern McPherson strut and trailing arm arrangement.

The car presented here is a 1966 Porsche 911 2.0-litre 'SWB' (Model Year 1966, denoted by its six digit chassis number: 304562), and was supplied new, as one of 1,710 examples that year, to the US. As a now much sought-after early model, it was specified still with a wooden steering wheel and dashboard inlay, now considered very desirable early-model features.

By the time this car was built (in May 1966), Porsche was using two triple-choke Weber carburettors on their 1,991cc engine, coined Type 901/05, which this car utilises (again, denoted by its engine number: 907790). Giving 130bhp with sportscar performance and handling, the 911 model quickly found success with its great looks, outstanding performance and the versatility of being either a grand tourer or a circuit racer. Early competition results included a good showing at the 1965 Monte Carlo Rally, with victories coming in the 1966 and 1967 European Rally Championship. In 1968, the 911 emphatically established its credentials as a frontline rally car, with works-entered 911s winning eight of the 15 European Championship rounds, firmly placing the 911 as a mainstay in historic rallying.

Chassis #304562 was supplied new via Porsche Cars America as per its accompanying Certificate of Authenticity, specified in Polo Red (6602) with Black leatherette (as it presents today). Optional equipment included a Webasto roof, antenna, coloured windows, hubcaps with Porsche crest and safety belts. It's understood that this car was a single-ownership, 55,000-mile example in America (Nebraska, specifically) before it was brought to the UK (in 2014) for a comprehensive restoration (full details upon request) and registered (in August 2020). In April 2023, marque specialists Autofarm serviced the car and, without doubt, it is now one of the best-presented 911 SWB examples available to buy today. We welcome any inspection of this superb early 911, you will not be disappointed; this is a significant opportunity, especially as it is offered for sale with No Reserve.