Porsche Panache at Shannons June Sale

MELBOURNE - May 29, 2012: A pair of very desirable early Porsche coupes that will appeal to both collectors and everyday drivers alike will be going under the hammer at Shannons Melbourne Winter Classic Auction on Monday June 4.

For purists and collectors there’s an attractive 1965-model 912 Coupe still fitted with its original 1600cc engine and Solex carburettors.

Introduced in 1965 as a more fuel-efficient and cheaper alternative to the six-cylinder 911, the 912 was fitted with the proven 90HP 1600cc air-cooled flat four seen in the last 356 models and was 113kg lighter.

The 912 being auctioned was an early-build car delivered new to the USA. It has since been fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox and very desirable Fuchs forged wheels and was repainted in its original Red livery around 12 years ago.

Importantly for its collectable value, the car retains its original engine, Solex carburetors and period green-dial gauges.

Shannons National Auction Manager Christophe Boribon said the 912 represented a unique opportunity to acquire a very early example of the classic F.A. Porsche-designed coupe.

“With prices of early 911 models now starting at $50,000-$60,000, an early ‘901’ style vehicle in excellent usable condition for around half that is a great buy, “ he said. Shannons are quoting a guiding range of $26,000-$32,000 for the 912.

Meanwhile for enthusiasts enamoured with the style, performance and panache of the iconic 1973 Carrera RS 2.7, there is a superb ’73 RS ‘backdate’ based on a 1982 Australia-delivered 911SC, making it a practical and comfortable daily driver, or weekend warrior.

Superbly presented in its original Grand Prix White with Green scripts and the model’s trademark ‘ducktail’ rear spoiler, this 911 started life as a 1982 Australian-delivered SC coupe fitted with factory options including electric mirrors, power windows, air conditioning and a sunroof.

In 2010, the car’s current owner undertook a fastidious retro-conversion of the car to Carrera RS look, complete with refurbished and colour-coded 16X7 front and 16X9 Fuchs forged wheels.

Meanwhile Melbourne Porsche specialist Harrisons RRR carried out an extensive mechanical upgrade at a cost of over $20,000, during which the car’s 3.0-litre flat six engine was rebuilt to 3.2 litre specifications, resulting in a documented increase 204HP to 252HP. A short-shift kit for the five-speed manual gearbox and a new clutch has also been fitted.

While it presents as a classic ‘RS’ outside, the 911 has been fitted with later model creature comforts, including later model Type 964 electric seats and RS door pulls, new carpets and a classic-style Momo steering wheel to make the 911 a very enjoyable daily driver.

With genuine Carrera RS 2.7 prices now nudging $300,000 and beyond, the RS ‘backdate’ at its estimated selling price of $52,000-$58,000 represents the most desirable Porsche ‘look’ at a fraction of the price.