1971 Porsche 911S 2.2

The D-series (August 1970-July 1971) was one of the most desirable early 911 models

The 911S 2.2 was fitted with the 2195cc, SOHC, Flat-6, Type 911/02 engine

Power output was now 180bhp at 6,500rpm, giving it a top speed of 138 mph/ 0-60 in seven seconds

This example was UK-delivered from new and retains its original matching numbers engine

Subject to a significant body restoration during 2015 but would benefit from further detailing

The 2.2 S is a rare car and appears very sensibly guided to reflect the current market

In the early days of the 911, the car continued to be developed and improved on an annual basis and the 1969 C-series models saw a huge step forward in the car's evolution, with a longer wheelbase, wider wheels, low profile tyres, improved lighting, trim and ventilation, stronger suspension and brakes, plus the introduction of the excellent, race-derived, CD ignition and mechanical fuel injection. These advances were consolidated in the forthcoming 2.2-litre range.

The D-series 911 models were produced from August 1970 until July 1971, and for model-year 1970, the engines of all 911s were increased to 2,195cc. The 911S 2.2 was fitted with the SOHC flat 6-cylinder Type 911/02 engine, with an uprated power output of 180bhp at 6,500rpm, giving it a claimed top speed of 138 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 7.0 seconds. It had a 5-speed manual transaxle, 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes and 4-wheel independent suspension. The iconic 2.2 911S was immortalised by Steve McQueen in the opening scenes of the cult movie Le Mans, McQueen is seen charging around the French country roads with the glorious sound of its flat-six, creating arguably the most memorable scene of the film. The 2.2S stayed in production for just 1969-71 and with fewer numbers manufactured than the 2.4S.

This lovely 1971, 911S 2.2 has been with our vendor since 1991 and has been used by him and his wife ever since, mainly as their daily driver, and regularly serviced by Porsche service centres near his place of work in London and his home near Exeter. Most recently it has been kept in Devon and only used occasionally weather permitting. Whilst in his ownership it has been subject to partial bodywork restorations, firstly in 2000 which saw a ú15,000 spend with KD Motor Engineers in Cheshire and secondly in 2015 which saw ú30,000 spent with the work organised by Porsche Exeter. The result is a very honest and eminently usable 911S which could certainly be enjoyed as is. Our vendor contacted Porsche Reading to gain confirmation that it retains the original engine and by the time of the sale it may come with the Porsche Letter of Conformity. It has had six previous owners and may have been subject to a colour change at some time.

With 911S 2.2s becoming increasingly rare in the market place, this much-enjoyed example would make a sensible investment or is simply ready to be driven as intended.