1972 PORSCHE 911 CARRERA RS RECREATION - FIA RACECAR

This Porsche 911 Carrera RS Recreation offers a great opportunity to experience the performance of one of the most iconic air-cooled models, at a fraction of the cost of a real example. Furthermore, it comes with FIA HTP papers that make it eligible for a range of prestigious historic motorsport events. While based on an existing race-prepared 911, this car was fully recommissioned and rebuilt in 2018.

It was completed in time for the Porsche 70-year anniversary race at the Le Mans Classic, where it achieved a creditable 5th place result. Even more impressive was the fact that the car drove all the way to the event – to bed in the new engine – and back again after the race.

Rather than being a backdated replica, this RS Recreation uses the shell of an original UK-market 911 E 2.4 that was first registered in March 1972, and it has been owned by the vendor for the past three years. As part of the 2018 upgrade, the engine – a 2.7-litre RS specification 7R magnesium cased flat-six – was completely rebuilt, with the case polished and shuffle-pinned, and with new titanium con rods, Mahle barrels and pistons. It was rounded off with a sports exhaust system, and was recorded at approximately 280bhp, driving through a correct specification 915 five-speed transmission.

Other enhancements included an RSR specification oil cooler with adjustments to the front bumper, new anti-roll bar and suspension components, and new safety equipment inside. It was recently prepared for the 2020 Modena Cento Ore road rally, though the car did not ultimately attend due to COVID-19 related restrictions.

Finished in white with blue RS decals, the original 1970s non-sunroof 911 shell is reported to have no evidence of any previous accident damage. Fitted with the correct RS arches, lightweight bumpers and ‘ducktail’ engine lid, the vendor states the paintwork remains in generally good condition. There is a chip on the front of the bonnet approximately the size of 20p piece, and some blemishes from track use as you would expect. The colour change to white is recorded with DVLA as taking place in 1998, with the previous colour noted as green. The chrome and trim are in generally good condition, with some blemishes on the window surrounds in a few places.

The full race interior is said to be in good order, complete with an FIA specification roll cage, lightweight RS style door cards, and an FIA-compliant Recaro bucket seat (valid until the end of 2023) with HANS compatible belts. There is also a plumbed-in fire suppression system, and a new Momo steering wheel. The vendor reports that the switchgear and controls were all upgraded recently for road rally events. The dashboard presents well, with a mix of original 1970s style dials and modern motorsport instruments and switchgear. The rear of the cabin is trimmed in black carpet, while the ancillaries, hoses and wires under the front bonnet are neatly routed and secured.

Last serviced by Melliard Motorsport in Nottingham and with further race preparation by Historika Porsche and Gary Cook Engineering, the vendor states that the engine was fully checked and serviced after the 2018 Le Mans Classic race. In 2019, the timing chain was replaced and in 2020 further suspension setup work was undertaken together with fitment of new Pirelli Corse road and rally specification tyres.

While it is road registered, the 911 is understood to be exempt from annual MOT certification on the basis of age, with the last test having been carried out in 2006 when it achieved a first-time pass with no advisories.

It is offered with invoices from marque specialists, plus build sheets and engine dynamometer reports, showing the significant investment made to create such a special 911.  These are backed up with photographs and documentation of the build, plus its FIA Historic Technical Passport (HTP) paperwork – FIA Class GTS27, and valid until 31 December 2029.

This Porsche 911 Carrera RS Recreation is an FIA-specification racer, which is presented in good order and has proven itself to be a worthy competitor. While many bidders may be familiar with cosmetic Carrera RS replicas, this is a car that uses a period 1970s shell for originality and also boasts the remarkably rare addition of a genuine 7R magnesium crankcase 2.7-litre RS specification flat-six – so it not only looks like the real deal; it goes like one too. This car is a versatile racing machine that could be enjoyed in a wide range of classic motorsport events, and which is sure to prove a thrilling drive for its next custodian.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.