The Porsche 911 is perhaps one of automotive histories longest running models. As a result, it is also a car that is continually reengineered, redeveloped, and improved upon generation after generation, all while keeping the classic line and experience of the famed 911 intact. When the first production model was introduced in 1964/65 it was evident that by 1968 a change was necessary. The plan was to offer a range of models within the 911 line-up. The result by 1969 was 3 different 911’s to choose from, the T, E, and S variants of which all could be tailored for the ordering customer with a variety of interesting options. The T was the base model which by 1970 still had carburetion; the E and S variants were both fuel-injected and offered additional power and top speed over the T. The S however was the pinnacle of power for production 911 models, and in 1972, its 2.4 power plant would be increased from 2,195 to 2,341cc, now sporting 190hp.

Further improvements continued for the 1972 911 S, including being fitted with the new 915 transmission, a stronger unit better suited for the increase in horsepower. This transmission used the “H” gate shift pattern, while eliminating the prior 901 transmission's "dog-leg" style first gear arrangement, which some drivers found challenging.

Handling was also improved by the relocation of the oil tank, now sitting in front of the right rear wheel. Along with this relocation came an exterior door for accessing the oil reservoir, making any 1972 Porsche 911 instantly recognizable from the exterior right hand side. This example has the correct “Oil” sticker inside the filler door originally installed to remind careless gas attendants this was not the gas tank. Despite these precautions, alledged complaints from consumers forced the re-located the tank, thus eliminating the oil filler door, making this distinctive for only 1972. Further aiding handing, particularly at high speeds, was the addition of a small front under bumper chin spoiler, standard on all S models. With this additional spoiler, front-end lift was claimed to be reduced by up to 40% when these cars were new.

This example, Chassis # 9112310569, according to its Porsche Certificate of Authenticity was delivered new as Silver Metallic (8080) over Black Leatherette, the same combination it currently wears. The options recorded were an antenna with loudspeaker and noise suppression, air conditioning, and tinted glass all around. Service records date back to possible first owner, a Mr. James Ruth of Berkley California in 1974 and 1975 when he took the car in and replaced the alternator, air conditioner belt, and having two new batteries installed, with recorded millage of 45,000. Later the car would be purchased by Dr. Hank Boni of Bend Oregon, with records noting Dr. Boni’s ownership in 1984 and 1985, with the replacement of the condenser and discharge hose, before being recharged in July of 1984. While under his ownership the Porsche wore the distinctive license plate “MAGIK” and have receipts from April of 1985 when it went in for a tune up, consisting of valve adjustment and replacement fan belts. According to the receipts, the millage was 23,570, which we believe to be 123, 570, and shortly there after had a new oil sending unit installed just over 124,000 miles of driving.

Towards the end of 1985, this Porsche 911 S Targa would be purchased by Sharon Miller, and would still remain in Oregon, and retain its “MAGIK” license plate. Records show fresh tires were purchased in April of 1986 before going in for a routine oil change, with the replacement of one lifter later in the year, at 130,736 miles. Further maintenance was performed in September of 1986, with replacement of the timing chains, tensioners, and guide rails, while also bleeding the brake system, totaling $635.64.

In 1991, still under the ownership of Ms. Miller, receipts show a major service with $3,828.19 of work completed, with a recorded millage of 138,840. This work included the re-surfacing and balancing and the flywheel and clutch assembly, after installing a new clutch disc, pressure plate and release bearing. Fresh batteries, new points, fresh sparkplugs, belts, wheel bearings, worn brakes hoses and anything else that didn’t meet her standards. As keen Porsche enthusiasts, this is exactly what we like to see, a well-maintained example where even after it was no longer a “new car”, the caliber of service and maintenance did not drop, like we have seen on so many examples.

After Ms. Miller’s complete mechanical going through, the car was then sold to Mr. Michael Petrella with records noting his ownership in 1993 and 1994. Minor work was completed before selling to Mr. Chris Rogers also of Oregon. Mr. Rogers would continue to cherish the car over his thirteen years of ownership, with routine maintenance, tires, and re-skinning of the targa top. When the last ownership change took place, this 911 S remained in the Western part of the United States, continuing inland to Las Vegas Nevada with caretaker Carlo Mayor. Records show Mr. Mayor upon purchase, had a tune up performed with fresh plugs, wires, and distributer cap, as well as having new injectors installed.

As you approach the vehicle, your attention is immediately drawn to the rare ski rack or “Targa Roof Ski Carrier” as it was listed in Porsches Dealer Equipment book. An option uniquely designed to fit the Targa model; it comes complete with period skis. An attractive yet seldom seen option, dealers noted its ability to be “attached or removed in just minutes” without drilling holes into your 911 Targa. Other distinctive details noticeable upon approach, are the Hella horn lights. Today the car shows very well wearing a re-spray of its original Silver Metallic (8080) with few imperfections noted.

Cosmetically the car shows very well, it is straight down the sides with excellent panel fitment, the hood and doors fit exactly as they should, with excellent gaps. The paint is smooth with a deep luster and matches everywhere, very consistent and presenting nicely. Never having any need to undergo a full restoration, this is a example of a 911 S with strong bones that has been properly looked after. As you walk around this example, you will notice the quality of the re-spray, without any inconsistencies, even in the most challenging areas to spray on a 911.

All glass is original and in very nice condition around the car, with only along the edge lower left hand corner of the windshield exhibiting minor de-lamination. All glass sports its original markings as well the rear windshield retaining its “PORSCHE 911 CALIFORNIA VEHICLE EMISSIONS STANDARDS” factory sticker. The glass is also is also adjourned by several nice period looking stickers, including period Gulf Le Mans, sitting next to Gulf Racing 917, both placed along the bottom edge of the heated rear windshield, while two likely reproduction “24 Heures Du Mans” stickers located in the lower corner of the front windshield. Fuch wheels are in very nice condition, nicely refinished, as is the Targa top, with receipts noting a re-skinning, while also replacing the headliner, side seals, and drip rails.

Upon entering this classic 911, the cabin greets you with very tidy seats with bolsters clean of any signs of great use. Leather wrapped dash shows nicely free of any defects or shrinking. Door panels are extremely clean as well with no perforations. As you sit in the drivers seat, you find yourself facing the classic Porsche dash, with central tachometer, with speedometer placed still well within eyesight. It’s amazing how everything in these cars is strategically placed in front of you. Rear seats match the fronts, if not better, complete with leather luggage belts.

Gauges all show nicely, with white printed numbers slightly faded, as one would expect for any 911 of this vintage. Carpeting is exceedingly clean and tidy throughout the cabin largely original, protected by period correct black and white dot carpets in the front and rear. Everything appears to be in correct working order the gauges read properly, as does the exterior lighting, windshield wipers, gauge lighting, as well as air conditioning.

Opening the trunk, you see is nicely fitted with matching carpet. Underneath the carpet it appears largely original and untouched with many factory spot welds present, as well as the factory brushed glue for the carpeting that is still present in places, along with the black sealant around the shock towers; both hallmarks of originality for a 911. It is evident through inspection and our opinion that the car has never been hit or rusty to the best of our knowledge as the front pan appears original and the structure is sound with no hint of any previous work of any kind. The underside of the car matches the overall appearance, showing no signs of rust or any abusive driving. Floors exhibit the correct factory patterns, never being repaired or replaced, while everything is neat and tidy with the front and rear metal work, showing no signs of any repairs.

In the engine bay, there is a uniform tidy appearance that would be expected of a show quality driver, including the stickers along engine compartment, as well as engine itself.

Upon staring, the car runs smoothly idling nicely. Every aspect of its mechanical ability feels dialed in and ready for long-term use as a reliable sports car that could be used and enjoyed without hesitation. The brakes are quick to stop the car without pulling. The clutch operation is smooth and the steering/handling works without fault; overall a very in tune example that works without fault; overall a very in tune example that will not disappoint. Complete with original books, tools, jack, spare, and Porsche COA accompanying the sale, it’s a great example and everything a 2.4 911S is supposed to be.