With the exception of the Volkswagen Beetle, the Porsche 911 boasts the most recognizable profile in the automotive industry. Now entering its 56th year of production, the 911 has proven to be an icon, and its earliest short-wheelbase version, introduced in late 1964, is both visually delightful and a joy to drive.

The 911 featured a two-liter, air-cooled, SOHC horizontally opposed six that delivered 130 hp at 6,100 rpm, along with 128 pound-feet of torque. Dry-sump lubrication allowed a low engine placement, and thus a low center of gravity. Standard equipment included rack-and-pinion steering, a fully synchronized five-speed manual transaxle, independent suspension with McPherson struts and torsion bars in front and semi-trailing arms, torsion bars, and tubular shocks in the rear. There were also modern disc brakes at all four corners. The cabin was much more capacious than the earlier Type 356, and there was additional luggage space under the front lid.

The 911 handily outperformed its predecessor, offering strong acceleration and a top speed of 130 mph. Because the 911 was considerably costlier than a 356, customers were initially slow to accept it, but as soon as Porsche launched what would become an incredibly successful racing and rally program, enthusiasts around the world realized what a powerful, high-quality, multi-purpose sports car was available to them . . . and the legend was born.

This 911 was completed on 29 October 1965, departing the factory in the very elegant combination of Aga Blue over a Beige leatherette interior. The cockpit is highlighted by a warm wood veneer dashboard insert and wood-rimmed steering wheel with “Butterfly” horn button. It was modestly optioned with a Webasto gasoline heater, tinted glass all around, and a radio antenna kit. A Blaupunkt multi-band radio and speaker were installed, along with a pair of fog lamps and a full set of factory chromed steel wheels bearing a manufacturing date of April 1964.

A previous owner acquired this largely original 911 many years ago from a family in the Charleston, South Carolina area; an electric fuel pump and electronic ignition system were added to this chassis at that time. Although its earlier history is unknown, it is a well preserved example.

This desirable early 911 retains its original sheet metal, glass, and all lighting assemblies, while the paint and brightwork appear to be in highly presentable condition. Rarely exhibited, this chassis notably claimed a much-desired “Palmetto” Award at the 2018 Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance and Motoring Festival.

Fresh off this successful exhibition, the previous owner commissioned Gronbach Interiors of Gainesville, Florida, to replace the original upholstery with new cream Spinneybeck leather. New grey-blue German square-weave carpeting from Porsche interior specialists Autos International of Escondido, California was installed throughout, along with a new headliner. The consignor has added just short of sixty miles to this fine and early Porsche since acquisition in 2019.

This very attractive short-wheelbase 911 is supplied with a correct spare wheel, spare seats, owner’s manual, and a copies of the factory Kardex and Porsche Production Specification certificate confirming its matching-numbers engine and transmission as well as the original color combination of Aga Blue over Beige leatherette. It has been recently serviced and is ready to provide its next owner many more miles of driving enjoyment.