For Sale: 1973 Porsche 911 in Costa Mesa, California

1973 Porsche 911 Speedster

• VIN 9113111297
• Engine 993
• Transmission 3.2 Carrera G50 with LSD
• One-of-One early 911 long-hood Speedsters

Porsche initially introduced the first Porsche 911 Speedster concept as a limited-production, open-top, two-seat sports car that reimagined a design originating from the 1954-1959 356 Speedster. It made its debut in the 1989 model year, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the 911, featuring specific design elements derived from the 356 Speedster, which included a raked windshield, a two-seat configuration, and a rollaway roof that could be neatly stowed under the double-bubble rear tonneau clamshell.

This early 911 long-hood Speedster is a one-of-a-kind that was custom-built over a 25-year period and was designed by a renowned Porsche enthusiast. The body was a complete 1973 Porsche 911T Targa that was finished in Light Ivory complemented with Black upholstery. The project commenced with a very straight and rust-free example, integrating various features that were personalized interpretations of a 911 Speedster, utilizing a 1973 Porsche 911 Targa chassis.

The paintwork is in outstanding condition, exhibiting impeccable gaps and panel alignment. Exterior trim includes a factory S bumper, deletion of rocker trim, front and rear S bumper trim, steel Carrera rear flares, custom rear decklid, and a custom electric tonneau cover. The brightwork, rubber seals, glass, and trim have been meticulously maintained and are in pristine condition. The staggered Fuchs alloy wheels are 7" x 16" fronts and 9" x 16" rears mounted to new BF Goodrich G-Force COMP-2 A/S PLUS 205 55 R16 front and 245 50 R16 rear tires.

The interior is very tastefully upholstered and features custom heated sport seats, backdated VDO instrumentation, air conditioning, power windows, 1994 Speedster windows, Speedster door armrests and seals, push-button door handles, factory leather sport seats from 1994 with matching cat-down headrests, powered clamshell, heated seats, roll bar, late 911 seatbelts, power door locks, backdated gauges, a custom leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an Alpine audio system.

Mechanically powered by a 1996 3.6-liter (993 engine) with a 1995 993 DME Fuel Injection System, which delivers remarkable performance on this lightweight chassis, weighing under 2500 pounds, offering an exhilarating driving experience. The transmission is a G50 from a low-mile 1988 with a limited-slip differential (LSD) and four-wheel disc braking system from a Boxster. The suspension, braking, and steering are from a 1985 Carrera suspension, Boxster brake calipers, cross-drilled rotors, and late-type front and rear sway bars. Additionally, it features a custom left and right front fender oil cooler with custom hard lines, louvered radiator coolers, new Bilstein front struts, a late rack and pinion steering mechanism, new U-joints, and steering column, 930 tie rod ends, a 914-fuel tank, a 12-volt battery system, along with a late 911 trunk floor to accommodate the new fuel tank.

Walking up to this 911 and marveling at its overall presence and attention to detail is one thing sitting down in the beautifully appointed yet purposeful interior is another. But the real excitement begins when you turn the key, fire the engine, and engage the clutch. This is a rare opportunity to own one of the finest custom Porsches ever built. This is a 911 that one must drive to understand; it is like no other early 911 that anyone has ever driven.