By the mid-1960s, Porsche was well-established as a leading producer fine sports cars. The foundation laid by the legendary 356 series supported a world-class racing program, and Porsche cars came to dominate a huge variety of classes in everything from grassroots club events to grueling rallies, and round-the-clock endurance races. But as time progressed, the 356 and its four-cylinder racing derivatives were reaching the end of development. The final version of the production 356 gained disc brakes and a 95 horsepower pushrod flat-four - effectively doubling the output of the earliest models. Yet that was not enough to keep the model relevant in an increasingly competitive market. So Porsche engineers developed a new car from the ground up, based upon a new 2.0-liter six-cylinder engine, fully independent suspension, and disc brakes in a larger, altogether more modern package. Yet Porsche was adamant about sticking to the ethos that made the 356 such a tremendous success - simplicity, engineering excellence, and the familiar rear-engine layout.
Initially, Porsche intended to call the new car the Type 901, but Peugeot objected and the name was changed to Type 911 - and thus a legend was born. The styling was by Ferdinand “Butzi” Porsche, son of Ferdinand “Ferry” Porsche and a highly respected industrial designer. The shape Butzi created was instantly recognizable, yet totally new and modern. It is a testament to the integrity of his design that the basic shape remained unchanged through the late 1990s, and the lineage is obvious in today’s high-tech, ultra high-performance 911. Of course, many aficionados prefer the early cars for their purity of line, light weight, and compact proportions. The short wheelbase models require a deft hand to drive rapidly, which makes them all the more rewarding to master, and further solidifies their place among the greatest sports cars of all time.
Proudly offered by RB Collection is this lovely 1965 Porsche 911 coupe presented in its original shade of Irish Green (code 6406) over black leatherette. This important and highly desirable 911 is a very early production, numbers-matching example, completed on June 3, 1965, per the Porsche Certificate of Authenticity. This wonderful car has been treated to a recent freshening of the restoration and presents in excellent condition inside and out. The Irish Green paintwork is in fine order throughout, befitting a car that is equally at home on the road or in a show. The body is crisp and straight, displaying nice, consistent gaps and proper detailing with correct slim bumpers, alloy deco strips, and good quality restored chrome trim. Riding on original steel wheels with chrome center caps and blackwall Vredestien Sprint Classic tires, the stance is squat, purposeful, and true to factory standards.
The interior is recently restored and finished in black basketweave pattern leatherette on the seats, correct salt and pepper lightweight carpets, and black door panels. A distinction of the early 911 is the natural finish wood trim on the dash, which presents in excellent condition on this car. This example also retains its correct early-style green-faced instruments, a distinct four-spoke sports steering wheel, and a period accessory walnut AMCO shift knob for the 5-speed “dogleg” gearbox. Detailing is excellent throughout the remainder of the cabin.
The 2.0-liter flat six is the original, numbers-matching unit per the supplied Certificate of Authenticity. It is well-detailed and tidy, featuring the correct air box, downdraft Solex carburetors, and factory-style clamps and hardware. The engine benefits from recent service performed in-house, and runs beautifully, sending power through the correct 5-speed 901 gearbox. It is befitting a car that is usable on the road, while also finely detailed for regional shows and club events. The undercarriage is very well-presented, thanks to a recent refurbishment by our team of restoration specialists. From the front trunk to the rear engine compartment, many details were researched to ensure accurate presentation.
This lovely and rare first-year 911 is sure to please the enthusiast seeking a finely restored and road-ready 2.0-liter model to enjoy in rallies, tours and casual show events. It represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most desirable short-wheelbase 911s, from the first year of production of the world’s greatest sports car. For more information or to make an offer, please contact Alex Ruozzi at RB Collection
