A triumph of development over design, the Porsche 911, launched in 1964 is still going strong. There have been countless variations, but first-generation pre-1974 cars are seen as the most Classic. Built before impact bumpers, they have cleaner looks and are purer in conception.

All models had 4 wheel disc brakes and 5 speed gearboxes on manual cars. Front suspension was by wishbones and torsion bars, superbly communicative steering and faithful pin sharp handling endeared the car to many.

The first cars used a 1991cc version of the SOHC flat 6 Engine which kicked out 130 bhp. The Targa with removable roof panel was announced in September 1966, Top of the range was the 160bhp 911S, with forged pistons and larger valves enabling the car to do 140mph. The brakes were now vented but as usual always unservoed, for a better feel. 1966 saw the debut of the classic 5 spoke alloy wheels which were a hallmark of the early 911. In 1967 the 911L replaced the standard 911 and there was a new base level 911T with 110bhp. In 1968 the new 911E model replaced the 911L, and there was now Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection for between 140bhp (E) and 170bhp (S), although the 110bhp 911T kept its Weber carbs. Over the years Porsche launched a series of variations some with changes like rear anti roll bars, standard alloy wheels and bigger engines.

The ultimate early 911 was the Carrera 2.7RS with a lighter shell and stiffer suspension, it was launched in Touring, Racing and Sport form and was built for just one year (1972-73) as a homologation car for Group 4 racing. A bore increase gave 2687cc and 210bhp thanks to flatter forged pistons and Nikasil cylinders. Only 500 were required for homologation, but the car proved to be to be that popular that Porsche decided to build over 1500.