By the early 1970s, the Porsche 911 had cemented its standing as a high-performance sports car. The 1973 911 S represents in many ways the definitive classic Porsche sports and touring car at its zenith, a year after a more powerful engine arrived and a year prior to heavy, federalized impact bumpers.

An upsized flat-six displacing 2,341-cc (rounded up to 2.4 liters) replaced the 2.2-liter engine in 1972, bumping power to as much as 190 hp in the 911 S. While Porsche made use of mechanical fuel injection for the 911 T and 911 E versions, the range-topping 911 S used carburetors in European specification. Additionally, the stronger 915-type transmission was fitted to 911s with the larger engine.

Among 911s bound for everyday use, the 911 S was unquestionably the top dog with its more powerful engine and a small spoiler located under its front bumper that improved stability at the higher autobahn speeds where Porsche expected owners would use their vehicles. Both coupe and Targa versions were available, the latter with its distinctive stainless steel-clad roll bar and removable roof panel.

The 1973 911 S Targa offered here is a European-delivery model, with a properly set-up MFI system, that was originally finished in a distinctive Gemini Blue metallic paint over a black interior. Its original owner took delivery in Europe but imported it to Jacksonville, Florida, where he kept it until June 2001. A subsequent owner in 2007 commissioned an extensive restoration by specialists on the West Coast costing more than $80,000. Its original 2.4-liter engine and transmission were rebuilt by Haus of Performance and Ray Stevens. The 911 S Targa’s body was stripped to bare metal, repaired where necessary, and repainted in Gemini Blue. Restored Fuchs wheels completed by Al Reed Specialty Polishing in California are wrapped by period-style Pirelli tires.

Its only visual modification comes inside, where a pair of period-correct sports seats wrapped in houndstooth upholstery supplied by Autos International replace the comparatively sedate factory 911 S units. The crack-free dashboard features a correct speaker grille as well as a radio blank plate, just as how it would have left Zuffenhausen more than 45 years ago. Its condition shows limited, gentle use since its restoration was completed.

This 911 S Targa will be delivered to its new owner with a large file documenting its restoration as well as a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity.