1971 Porsche 911T 2.2

Highlights

One previous owner from new
Totally restored inside and out
Mechanics completely rebuilt, engine still being run-in
Mileage believed to be true, with 15kms done since the engine rebuild
Gorgeous Schwarz 1010 paintwork

The Appeal

There are very few classic cars as desirable and collectible as an air-cooled Porsche 911. And models from the 1960s and 1970s have long been at the top of the list. Of course, they are also increasingly rare. And finding an example that has not already passed through the hands of half a dozen collectors is even more difficult.

But that is where this wonderful car comes in. Carefully, painstakingly and expertly restored over the past seven years after being neglected for a long time, forgotten in a shed for 29 years, it is now ready to pass on to a new owner who wants to enjoy it as it deserves on the roads.

We were particularly impressed by the black-on-red colour scheme, the original steel wheels and the fact that the owner has resisted the temptation to install a more modern engine and has instead kept the powertrain in the exact condition in which it left the factory, with only a few clever improvements to make it as reliable as possible.

This is an incredibly rare and fascinating example of one of the most significant cars ever made. So, for those who are looking for a special piece to add to a collection, want a car that will surely acquire value over time or simply want to own a special example of one of the best sports cars ever made, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The History and Paperwork

First registered in 1971 in Italy
Registered to a 10-year-old boy (probably for tax reasons)
The car was originally white, it was repainted black by the first owner in its early years
Sold in 1984 to a new owner who never re-registered it, but abandoned it after a while in a shed
The car remained registered in the first owner's name
Abandoned for 29 years in a shed
Found in Turin in 2013 and purchased by the current owner as a restoration project
Meticulously restored over seven years
Complete with original documentation
Valid Italian registration papers
Withdrawn from circulation and thus remains unregistered for road use
Requires ACI documentation for re-registration in Italy

The Condition

Spectacular black paintwork
Complete 'bare metal' repainting
Original chrome wheels and trim
New windscreen
New door and window seals
Interior trim completely removed
Complete interior makeover
Interior reupholstered in red leatherette
New carpet from a German specialist

Obviously, the 911 is one of the best known and most recognisable silhouettes in the automotive world. But that doesn't stop the early models from still being surprisingly attractive. They are truly beautiful sports cars with elegant proportions.

This example has been completely disassembled, and the seller has informed us that all metal parts damaged by rust have been removed and replaced with new sheet metal. Naturally, the original structure of the car was preserved and restored as much as possible, replacing only what was necessary. So the lower part of the front pillars was completely restored, as well as the wings, bonnet and body, which are all original.

It was then completely repainted in black (Porsche Schwarz 1010, to be precise). We feel that the results speak for themselves; the car's exterior looks almost immaculate, with beautiful smooth paint and a deep shine.

All the chrome and other exterior trim is complete and is in excellent condition. Trim that showed signs of damage or rust was re-chromed or, when necessary, replaced. Components that had to be replaced include the front headlights, which were beyond repair, so new elements were purchased and fitted.

The original steel wheels with chrome-plated centre wheel covers are still present. The wheel covers have a slight patina with minor scratches, clearly accumulated over the years, but are otherwise clean and undamaged.

The underside of the car has undergone equally intensive and thorough work. The underbody is exceptionally clean and solid and shows no signs of corrosion or visible damage. The seller has informed us that the bottoms are original and poor quality metal parts have simply been replaced, retaining as much of the original panels as possible.

The restoration was carried out by an expert over a period of seven years, which gives an idea of the great attention paid to every detail. There are a few minor defects on the outside, but nothing to cause concern, because, as the owner says, 'this is a real car, not a pin-up car'.

The current owner has carried out a complete interior makeover, carefully maintaining as many original components and parts as possible.

First of all, new dark grey carpeting was installed throughout the interior and in the front luggage compartment. A new perforated white vinyl headlining was also installed, providing a pleasant contrast to the carpets and the striking red leatherette upholstery. This upholstery has clearly been installed to a high standard and covers the front and rear seats as well as the door panels and side panels. The seller informs us that all this work has been done by hand, with great attention to detail, recreating the exact original stitching and lines. It is a perfect choice to provide a bold but period-correct contrast to the exterior colour scheme. Custom mats were also installed in the front, with an elegant diamond quilted design.

The only problem reported by the seller in the passenger compartment is the fact that the windscreen washer nozzle is currently inoperative.

Otherwise, everything in the passenger compartment is brand new or has been carefully restored. For example, the dashboard, controls, gear lever and instrumentation are original and have been well preserved. Of course they show some wear and patina consistent with age, but overall they are in excellent condition and function as they should.

The Mechanics

Thoroughly rebuilt 2.2-litre six-cylinder boxer engine
Brakes completely overhauled
Rebuilt 5-speed manual gearbox

Some engines have an unmistakable character, and Porsche's first air-cooled six-cylinder boxers certainly fall into this category. Melodious and exciting, with a fascinating mumble at low revs, they are loved by car enthusiasts the world over.

Although the car was originally equipped with the 2.4-litre engine, during the restoration the seller installed a completely rebuilt and refurbished 2.2-litre power unit. As can be seen from the photos, the engine was completely dismantled and rebuilt. The level of detail and meticulous attention paid during the rebuild should give the new owner great peace of mind. Here is a list of some of the work that has been carried out:

Compression increased from 8.6:1 to 10:1
Oil path in crankcase modified for better lubrication, especially at idle speed
Crankcase ground, main bearings increased by 0.25 mm
Oil pump disassembled and reconditioned
New cylinder walls, pistons and rings
Valves ground, new valve seats and heads restored
New timing chains
Carburettors overhauled

At the same time, the 5-speed manual gearbox was dismantled, checked and completely rebuilt. All brake system components were also overhauled or replaced, including the installation of new lines and hoses.

BEFORE YOU BUY

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