1973.5 Porsche 911T Metallic Blue ExteriorBlack Interior 79,173 Miles2.4-Liter Flat 6-Cylinder Engine915 5-Speed Manual TransmissionBosch K-Jetronic CIS (Continuous Fuel Injection)Original 4-Spoke Steering Wheel 16x7-Inch Refinished Fuchs WheelsContinental ExtremeContact Sport tiresVIN: 9113103326BackgroundThe 1971 to 1973 were the last years of the traditional “long-hood” 911 before U.S. impact bumper regulations diluted the iconic 911’s form. Known as the E and F Series, they were powered by a 2.4-liter engine good for between 130 to 190 horsepower depending on T, E, or S model spec. All cars in the U.S. market featured mechanical fuel injection, except for the 1973.5 911T. Those employed the Bosch K-Tronic Continuous Fuel Injection (CIS), the system that would go on into the 2.7-liter 911 and 911SC. The E and F 911s also got the stronger 915 gearbox, one that would remain in the 911 until the late-1980s. Weighing roughly 2,300 pounds with the power of the 2.4-liter engine, the E and F Series were some of the best traditional “long-hood” 911s. They delivered the traditional 911 design and experience with technology that persisted in for decades to come. SummaryThis 1973 911T Coupe came to us, along with a 1973.5 911T Targa, on consignment from a Glen Shelly regular who needed to sell both due to health concerns. He purchased it from a long-term (36-year) owner on Bring a Trailer in September of 2018 and set about restoring it further, but had some health issues arise before it was finished. When we received it, it was not in running condition, so we set about remedying that. The fuel tank was drained and fresh gas put in, the oil was changed, the ignition switch wiring was repaired, a new fuel pump harness was fabricated, the batteries were replaced with a single unit that was relocated to the frunk floor, the front and rear brake pads were replaced, and we installed a horn ring and pad. We also conducted a leak-down test that showed: Cyl #1: 2%, Cyl #2: 3%, Cyl #3: 7%, Cyl #4: 8%, Cyl #5: 8%, Cyl #6: 1%. It’s plausible that the mileage is original, but there are no records to substantiate this. It does come with a Certificate of Authenticity from Porsche, along with a written summary of work completed at 71,988 miles from the previous owner showing the points, spark plugs, air seals, intake air sensor plate, and re-packing the front wheel bearings. This example is best described as a well-cared for, unrestored, and unmolested survivor. The cosmetic and mechanical condition are detailed thoroughly below, but in short, there are a few spots of rust and an eventual engine reseal (due to oil leaks) that should be factored in your purchase planning. The only change that we made from the factory specifications was the addition of 16x7 inch Fuchs wheels. They make the stance much more aggressive without compromising the integrity of the factory design cues. ExteriorThe Metallic Blue Paint is an old respray that is close to the original hue, but not an exact match. It does bear its age, with a few patches of failing clear, some scratching, as well as the rock chips typical of older Colorado vehicles. The body is straight, with few notable dents or dings. The underbody is clean, however there are a few spots of rust bubbling to note: the lower rear corner of the passenger door, the lower passenger side corner of the windshield cowl, the inner door bases, and right behind the kick panel on the passenger side door jamb. The bumpers and bumperettes are present and in good condition. The front fog lights have been removed with OEM delete blanks. The glass is all in excellent condition, with no scratches, chips, or pitting; all of the associated seals, guides, and trim brightwork are likewise in great condition. The Cibie HCR headlights only have minor pitting and are surrounded by the factory sugar scoops, which look fantastic. All turn signal, taillight, and marker covers are present; the fronts are both cracked/chipped but serviceable, and the taillights are both clean with the exception of a hairline crack in each. The 16x7 inch Fuchs wheels look phenomenal and are nearly perfect thanks to recently being refinished. They are wrapped in fresh Continental ExtremeContact Sport tires with 2020 DOT dates.InteriorOpen the door and you are greeted with that lovely air-cooled 911 smell. There are no odors and it does not appear to have been smoked in. The carpet is in quite good condition. The dashboard is very clean, especially for an F body 911; it has one crack just behind the passenger side defrost vent, and two other small ones that are outside of the driver’s field of view. The headliner is clean, with no tears or sags, only some minor discoloration. The gauges as well as the clock all work correctly. The OEM four-spoke steering wheel has a nice patina to match the exterior of the car. The steering wheel leather does float slightly. The headlights, taillights, turn signals, and wipers all work correctly. The stereo is a period correct Blaupunkt CR-4096 AM/FM cassette player. The door cards are both in very nice shape; the passenger’s pocket sags a little bit. The headlight, turn signal, and HVAC controls all work correctly. The shift knob is in decent shape but does have the wrong shift pattern displayed. The front seats are in very nice condition with no bolster wear or tears. The spare tire is present, however the center carpet piece that covers it is missing. MechanicalThere are few driving experiences that can match a well-sorted air-cooled 911. The 2.4 engine fires on command. Cold starts can be finicky, but that comes with the territory of CIS injection. The manual throttle idle adjustment makes this easier and with a little practice starting it becomes easy. It idles smoothly and pulls strongly. If you missed it in the summary, we performed a leak-down test that showed: Cyl #1: 2%, Cyl #2: 3%, Cyl #3: 7%, Cyl #4: 8%, Cyl #5: 8%, Cyl #6: 1%. There are moderate oil leaks that are indicative of a 911 that has been brought back to life after sitting for some time. An eventual engine resealing should be part of your purchase planning. The oil temperature runs cool, even on hot summer days. The clutch has zero slip, but the take-up is near the top of the pedal. A fresh clutch would be recommended when the engine is pulled to receive fresh gaskets, but it is still serviceable for the time being. The 915 shifts smoothly and the synchros do not grind as long as proper 915 technique is applied (patience is key). The suspension and brakes feel good. As it sits, this is an excellent entry to the long-hood 911 Coupe market. This is a great way to get into a good driver-quality survivor F body coupe that, with a little work, can be made into a fantastic example. Either way, it has a brought a smile to everyone here and we are sure it will do the same for the next owner!COA VIN DecodeVIN: 9113103326Model Year: 1973 911T CoupeProduction Completion Date: 07/1973Engine Number / Type: 6135610Transmission Type: 7730954Exterior Paint Color / Code: Metallic Blue / 84Interior Material Color / Code: Black Leatherette / 11Optional Equipment:Forged Alloy WheelsAuxiliary Oil CoolerManual Antenna – Left w/ Front Loudspeaker & Noise SuppressionTinted Glass All AroundPower WindowsPirelli Tires Glen Shelly is a low volume auto brokerage focused only on the highest quality vehicles. We are airline pilots, mechanics, and auto enthusiasts who bring a high level of professionalism and attention to detail to the automobile business. Our philosophy is to keep our inventory small so that we can focus on thorough mechanical and cosmetic preparation of the vehicles we select. We have over 20 years of experience restoring and repairing automobiles and are intimately familiar with our cars. We do the inspections, service, detailing, and corrective maintenance using only OEM parts and service manuals. We offer an informed and low-pressure sales environment resulting in a premium buying experience. Find out more about us at www.Glenshelly.com. |