A running 1960s classic 911 that is also in budget?
Yes, we were surprised, too - but you’d better get your offers in quickly...
Now we weren’t expecting this. It had been decided, when we
were compiling the list of cars for our ‘Real World Porsches’ that anything
pre-1974 911-wise was going to be out of budget. And then, on the day, up
popped this 1968 short-wheelbase ‘cooking’ 911T in National Health hearing-aid
beige - or a sort of ‘sand’ colour if we’re being generous. It was a bit of a
surprise and it immediately usurped the Cayenne that we had waiting in the
wings, but dealer Paul Stephens had just snapped it up and as it stands,
unrestored, and with its two owners from new history, its value is just under $84,000,
and that is where the market for classic 911s is now.
Porsche 911T (1967
SWB) front view
Just three years ago we did a feature predicting the various
Porsches that would be the ‘Next Big Thing’ and without wishing to blow our own
trumpet, the SWB 911 was on that list, and at the time an original, sound car
could be had for about $42,000. So fast forward and not only has that (frankly
obvious) prophecy been realised, but prices have doubled. In fact that related
to the 911S SWB, so best add another $16,000 on to that figure.
Porsche 911T (1967
SWB) side view
This, then, is your entry level classic 911 - seriously.
Yes, you might be able to find something cheaper, but don’t expect it to run
and don’t expect it to be solid. In other words it will be a restoration
project. This, on the other hand, runs, is solid and has an MOT It’s also
something of a rarity. After all you don’t really see many 911Ts around (T for
Touring). It’s base as in basic, with just 110bhp and a four-speed gearbox
(shared with the 912). Not that this will put people off. Indeed it’s almost
endearing and for many just the early 911 shape and feel is enough.
Porsche 911T (1967
SWB) engine
From a distance this classic looks very presentable. Indeed
close up it’s not too bad. Classic car buffs call it patina and this 911T has
the whole patina thing going on - in a good way. The paintwork seems to be
original and while it’s lost its shine, it’s still surprisingly presentable.
The skinny Fuchs are faded and pitted, as is the chrome, and the various rubber
seals have dried and shrunk. Inside it’s in remarkably good shape although the
door cards are sagging a bit and the seats are a bit bouncy. It is, to all
intents and purposes, a straight car that needs full restoration. Really? Yes,
really.
Porsche 911T (1967
SWB) steering wheel
Straight and honest as it may be, there’s nothing on this
car that could be restored with simple elbow grease. It’s at that stage where
it all needs to be done. The only saving grace is that it’s not rotten. That
will save thousands and make a restoration viable. The same goes for the
mechanics. The engine runs, but needs a good tune up at the very least.
Certainly the carbs, or the manifolds, are sucking in air. The gearbox is
predictably vague, but the shift doesn’t challenge the synchros and the
suspension is tired and the tyres of dubious origin.
But it’s all there and even in less than perfect condition
it’s great fun to drive and would make a great cruising 911. With its full
110bhp, and carrying very little weight, it would punt along very nicely and
you wouldn’t feel the need to wring its neck all the time.
Porsche 911T (1967
SWB) interior
What would the resto cost? Well, without going mad, you
might do it for $16,800-$25,200 (not including engine), but don’t be surprised
if it costs more. What would we do? Restore the engine, gearbox and suspension
to full health and keep the rest as is. Yes, we even quite like the colour.
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Technical Specifications
·
Model: Porsche 911t SWB ·
Engine: 2.0-litre flat-six ·
Power: 110bhp @ 5800rpm ·
Torque: 116lb ft @ 4200rpm ·
Transmission: 4-speed manual ·
Brakes: 282mm vented discs front; 285mm rear ·
Tyres: 165/15 radial front/rear ·
Economy: 30mpg (combined) ·
Top speed: 124 mph ·
0-62mph: 10 secs
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