FIA regulation changes after the 1972 season ended the Porsche 917’s dominance in World Sportscar Championship racing, prompting Porsche to focus on the 2.4L 911S as the foundation for their racing efforts.
It evolved into the Carrera 2.7 RS, where “RS” stood for Renn Sport, meaning motorsport. Engineers reduced weight using thinner steel, fiberglass bumpers, lightweight glass, and simplified interiors with racing seats and straps replacing door handles.
The 911S’s air-cooled flat-6 engine was enlarged and fuel-injected, producing 210 HP from a 2.7L configuration. Wider rear wheels, suspension upgrades, and wind-tunnel testing led to the iconic “Burzel” ducktail spoiler, reducing rear lift at high speeds.
Porsche had to sell 500 race-ready Carreras to meet FIA homologation, but demand exceeded expectations. Over 1,590 units were produced between 1973 and 1974, including 200 Lightweight M471 models and the more refined M472 Touring versions.
On January 24, a German-market 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS Touring will be auctioned at RM Sotheby’s Arizona event, with estimates reaching $550,000. Finished in rare Gulf Orange paint, it is one of just 25 examples in this color. Designated RS number 824, it was sold through Schultz Porsche in Düsseldorf, Germany, by March 1973.
In 1983, a U.S. servicemember acquired and imported the car to the United States. Following a 1999 ownership change, it underwent a meticulous restoration, including body refinishing, new floor pans, trim, and glass. Renowned Porsche specialist Andial completed engine and transmission rebuilds by 2004.
Under its owner’s care for two decades, the car has received tasteful upgrades, including air conditioning, factory-style “Carrera” graphics, and staggered 15-inch Fuchs alloy wheels with Pirelli tires. Retaining its original 2.7-liter engine, confirmed by a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity and Kardex copy, the car passed an October 2024 compression test.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
