To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' Amelia Island event, 8 - 9
March 2019.
Estimate:
$210,000 - $250,000
- Wonderful Aga Blue over Beige color combination
- Numbers-matching example; 78,874 original miles
- Includes correct spare wheel, jack, and owner's manual
- Porsche Production Specifications certificate
With the exception of the Volkswagen Beetle, the Porsche 911 boasts
the most recognizable profile in the automotive industry. Now
entering its 56th year of production, the 911 has proven to be an
icon, and its earliest short-wheelbase version, introduced in late
1964, is both visually delightful and a joy to drive.
The 911 featured a two-liter, air-cooled, SOHC horizontally opposed
six that delivered 130 hp at 6,100 rpm, along with 128 foot-pounds
of torque. Dry-sump lubrication allowed a low engine placement, and
thus a low center of gravity. Standard equipment included
rack-and-pinion steering, a fully synchronized five-speed manual
transaxle, independent suspension with McPherson struts and torsion
bars in front and semi-trailing arms, torsion bars, and tubular
shocks in the rear. There were also modern disc brakes at all four
corners. The cabin was much more capacious than the earlier Type
356, and there was additional luggage space under the front
lid.
The 911 handily outperformed its predecessor, offering strong
acceleration and a top speed of 130 miles an hour. Because the 911
was considerably costlier than a 356, customers were slow to accept
it, but as soon as Porsche launched, what would become an
incredibly successful racing and rally program, enthusiasts around
the world realized what a powerful, high-quality, multi-purpose
sports car was available to them . . . and the legend was made.
This fully numbers-matching '65 911 was completed on 29 October
1965, departing the factory in the very elegant combination of Aga
Blue over a Beige leatherette interior. The cockpit is highlighted
by a warm wood veneer dashboard insert and wood-rimmed steering
wheel with "Butterfly" horn button. It was modestly optioned with a
Webasto gasoline heater, tinted glass all around, and a radio
antenna kit. A Blaupunkt multi-band radio and speaker were
installed, along with a pair of fog lamps, and a full set of
factory chromed steel wheels bearing a manufacturing date of
4-64.
The consignor acquired this largely original 911 a dozen years ago
from a family in Charleston, South Carolina. Although its earlier
history is unknown, he notes that it is completely rust-free,
perhaps due to it having been stored indoors for many decades. The
odometer indicates 78,874 miles, which is believed to be correct.
This desirable early 911 retains all its original sheet metal,
glass, and all lighting assemblies. The paint and brightwork appear
to be in excellent condition.
The consignor commissioned Gronbach Interiors of Gainesville,
Florida, to replace the original upholstery with new cream
Spinnybeck leather "for comfort and longevity." New grey-blue
German square-weave carpeting from Autos International was
installed throughout, along with a new headliner. The consignor
says he had the engine and brakes overhauled in Charleston soon
after taking possession. There is now an electric fuel pump and an
electronic ignition system.
This very attractive short-wheelbase 911 is supplied with a correct
spare wheel and jack, a set of Coco mats, an owner's manual, and
Porsche Production Specifications certificate, confirming its
original drivetrain and color combination. It has been recently
serviced and is ready to provide its next owner many more miles of
driving enjoyment.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am19.
