1971 Porsche 911T Targa

For 1970, C and D-series 911s benefited from an upgrade in engine size to 2,195cc and the ‘T’ was fitted with ventilated discs from the ‘S’ and a 5-speed box became standard (unless the optional Sportomatic was ordered). Although the 125bhp ‘T’ had the lowest power output of the three available models, it had a flatter torque-curve which better suited its role as a Tourer, particularly with the Sportomatic gearbox. Although 125bhp doesn’t sound remarkable by today’s standards, it was 30bhp more than a contemporary MG B.

Resplendent in Conda Green with a black interior, this stunning left-hand drive Targa-topped Porsche 911T (Touring) is believed to have been purchased by an American serviceman and shipped to California from Germany in the early 1970s. Since returning to the UK in 1978, it has a well documented history and before being acquired by our vendor in October 1998, the Targa had belonged to Lawrence Srodzinski who was very much involved with the Porsche Owners Club of Great Britain.

At the time of his purchase, our vendor ran a commercial bodyshop and was a skilled panel beater by trade and ideally placed to carry out a full restoration. He conducted a full body rebuild using original Porsche panels where needed but still with a ‘nod’ to retaining as much originality as possible. The engine still runs on its original Zenith Carburettors. Naturally, as he was working on his own car, there was an emphasis on quality and attention to detail, all confirmed by the full photographic record of the restoration supplied with the car.

The Sportomatic gearbox was well promoted in period by Porsche who entered a team of cars with this box fitted in the 1967 Marathon de La Route, an 84 hour slog around the Nürburgring. Vic Elford, Hans Hermann and Jochen Neerspasch took the honours with the gearbox acquitting itself well and establishing the concept that an automatic Porsche and sporting motoring were not mutually exclusive.

Looking a picture in its period Conda Green with Satin Aluminium roll-hoop and Fuchs alloys, the car has been enjoyed on trips to various Porsche meets and an outing to Le Mans. A well set-up and maintained 911T, 'E' or 'S' driven with an intelligent right foot will provide some of the most quintessentially rewarding driving experiences you have ever had and the 125bhp 911T for sale here will leave you with a serious grin.