Porsche 911 3.0 RS

Some cars have a little more of a story to tell, and this 1979 Porsche 911 3.0 RS-style backdate has certainly lived a characterful life.

Brought to Ireland from Liverpool in January 2004, it remained with the same enthusiast owner for twenty years. During that time, it competed in the Irish Porsche Challenge in 2006, 2007 and 2008, earning its stripes on Irish circuits before evolving into a rather special fast-road car. In 2024, it passed to our customer, from whom we have now acquired it.

The aim was to bring together the best ingredients for a light, responsive and properly exciting road-going 911. Its competition experience helped shape the build, while the beautiful Iris Blue paintwork and early RS-style body give it a wonderfully understated appearance. The long bonnet, Fuchs wheels and ducktail spoiler do all the talking required.

Underneath lies a comprehensively rebuilt 3.0-litre flat-six with JE 9.2:1 compression pistons, Mahle cylinders, DC60 high-lift cams, new bearings and a new oil pump. A rebuilt mechanical fuel injection pump and intake butterflies enlarged to 42mm complete the package, with dyno testing and setup by Bob Watson recording 271bhp.

In a car this light, that makes for quite an experience. It is extremely quick, pulls incredibly well at the top end and positively encourages you to enjoy the rev range. The induction noise, throttle response and sense of connection make every journey feel like an occasion. It is comfortably among the best-driving air-cooled 911s we have experienced.

The rebuilt 915 gearbox benefits from a WEVO GateShift kit, paired with a Sachs clutch and lightened flywheel. Koni Sport front dampers, Bilstein rear dampers and polybushed suspension keep things composed, while 3.2 Carrera brakes with fast-road pads provide reassuring stopping power.

Bodywork by Carrera Classics included replacement sills, a new front wing and bonnet, a sunroof delete and a full repaint completed in May 2021. New Fuchs wheels, replacement oil lines and renewed lights and fittings further underline the work invested.

Inside, refurbished tombstone seats and simple RS-style door cards retain just the right amount of comfort, with the familiar five-dial dashboard ahead of you. Three pedals, a manual gearbox and a very willing flat-six behind you. A fairly convincing argument for taking the long way home.

Twenty years of enthusiast ownership, Irish competition history and thoughtful development have produced a 911 with real personality. A beautifully judged 3.0 RS-style backdate, built to be driven and enjoyed.