For the past decade or so, early 911s (those built between 1963-1973) have been favorites in the collector car hobby. These cars are loved for their chrome bumpers, long hoods, and overall lightness and simplicity. They are also loved for the air-cooled flat-six, which is probably the most reliable classic European sports car in the world. Our Pick of the Day is one of these first-generation 911s that created the legend: a 1973 Porsche 911T Targa listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealer located in St. Ann, Missouri.
This Porsche 911T Targa is a great example in a great spec. It is painted in its original Light Yellow (color code 6210) with a Black Leatherette interior. This is how this car was delivered new and is documented as such in the Porsche Certificate of Authenticity that accompanies this car.
This car is described by the dealer as having recently received an extensive engine-out service at a cost over $19,000, so now it is ready for its next caretaker. It has a matching-numbers engine and transmission, a stunning color, and is said to be in incredible condition. I have personally owned 34 911s over the years and this is a car that I would buy myself.
The photos of the exterior show a car in great shape, with what looks to be great paintwork and excellent panel fit and finish. All brightwork also looks good, with every detail of the body looking exactly as it should for a collector-grade 911. I personally love all the anodized Porsche lettering and model-specific badging, a detail that I notice as it shows me that this is a car that has been owned by someone who understands 911s. We Porsche 911 geeks love this stuff!
This 911 was optioned when new with a limited slip differential, alloy wheels, stabilizer bars, comfort package, and tinted windshield and side glass. All of these options are still present and make this car all the more alluring.
The Interior is also in exceptional condition, with seats in the correct vinyl, door cards that are perfect (these are prone to all kinds of issues) — it even still has its original Becker Europa radio in place. This car also is now equipped with Coco mats in black and yellow that match the car’s paint. These mats, which have been a favorite of Porsche owners for decades, further make me believe that this car is a good example of a 911.
Under the rear decklid is an absolutely pristine-looking 2.4 liter 911 engine, which should not come as a surprise based on the receipts that accompany this car. The fan shroud is the correct color, and the air cleaner is also correct. In addition, all the correct decals are properly placed on the inside rear edge of the engine compartment.
I have owned a 1973 Porsche 911T, and these cars from behind the wheel are everything that is good about the 911 as a model. This being a late end-of-the-run “long hood” 911 means that it has a five-speed gearbox, my single favorite 911 gearbox. These cars are light, quick, and encompass all the goodness that people love about the 911 as a model. The added benefit of it being a Targa means that it offers top-down fun and yet also has the convenience of a car that feels like a coupe with the top on.
This 1973 911 includes extensive service records, books, manuals, and its original tool kit, all in great condition. I feel this 1973 911T Targa is truly an investment-grade 911 and also a really good deal with an asking price of $149,900. I challenge you to find one this nice for less.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
