1974 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR
As a rule, the asking prices seen in the majority of classifieds are a reasonable indication of the difference in desirability between impact-bumper 911s and their long-bonnet brethren. While the former has its highlights, the latter, with its smooth flowing lines, is significantly more sought-after.
However, where there are rules there are always exceptions, and the $2.5 million-plus valuation of this 1974 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR is an incredibly large one.
Obviously, much of this is down to its place as a fire-breathing motorsport monster from the workshops at Weissach. However, of the 54 3.0-litre RSRs that Porsche produced for the 1974 and 1975 racing seasons, ‘9114609040’ (to call it by its chassis number) is certainly the most special.
The fabled RSR’s legacy began the year before with the introduction of the iconic 911 Carrera RS and the demise of the 917 sports prototype. Ahead of the 1972 World Sportscar Championship season, the FIA announced that the 5.0-litre Group 4 rules would be changed, effectively ending the 917’s Le Mans career.
After two years of dominance, Porsche stepped back from the top level of sports car racing, leaving privateers to take up the charge in a host of underpowered 908/03s.
At the same time, Zuffenhausen was working on the 911 Carrera RS, with plans to build 500 of the now-iconic sports cars in order to homologate a lightweight 911 for international competition.
While demand for the car after its 1972 debut eventually led to over 1,500 Carrera RSs leaving the factory, Porsche had achieved its goal. With the car eligible for the rebranded Group 4 category (now catering for ‘Special Grand Touring Cars’), Porsche were allowed to make a range of modifications to the Carrera RS. With an increased bore of 92mm, the 2.7-litre flat six was increased to 2.8 litres. The 1973 911 Carrera RSR was born.
The new ultimate 911 dominated the 1973 GT scene, even beating the prototype machinery at the final running of Sicily’s Targa Florio, as well as winning the 24 Hours of Daytona in the hands of American outfit Brumos Racing.
To read more about this Gelo Racing 911 Carrera 3.0 RSR, the first car to leave the factory in 1974, pick up a copy of Total 911 issue 115 in store now. Alternatively, you can buy online, or download a copy to your digital device.
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