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The early 1970s marked a pivotal era for Porsche in motorsport, leading to the development of a new Group 4 racing iteration of the iconic 911. To meet FIA homologation requirements, 500 road-legal examples of the Carrera RS 2.7 were mandated. Despite initial marketing concerns, the new 210 horsepower, 150 mph sports car proved an instant sensation upon its 1972 Paris Motor Show debut, with demand far exceeding expectations.
The Birth of a Lightweight Icon: The Carrera RS 2.7 was offered in two distinct versions: the more road-oriented M472 “Touring” and the stripped-down, performance-focused M471 “Sport,” or Lightweight. The Lightweight variant was an exercise in minimalism, shedding almost 100 kilograms through thinner body panels and glass, minimal carpeting, racing seats, and fixed rear windows. While the Touring model was more popular with around 1,380 units produced, the ultra-rare Lightweight, with a mere 200 examples built, has rightfully ascended to enhanced collector status.
A Right-Hand Drive Rarity with Racing Pedigree: Chassis number 9113600446 stands out as one of only 17 right-hand drive RS 2.7 Lightweights ever produced. Completed in Zuffenhausen in January 1973, it was finished in the classic RS livery of Grand Prix White with striking blue decals and wheel inserts. Notably optioned with a desirable limited-slip differential and a heated rear window, this particular car was ordered through UK Porsche importers AFN Limited by the esteemed London-based gentleman driver and classic car dealer Dan Margulies, with competitive motorsport in mind.
From London Roads to the Targa Florio: Margulies, a Romanian-born talent who made his mark on the burgeoning British Club Racing scene, had a history of competing in prestigious events. His preference for long-distance and road course competitions saw him participate in races like the Tour de France and the Targa Florio. It was this very 911 RS 2.7 Lightweight that Margulies immediately entered into the grueling 1973 Targa Florio, just three months after its arrival in the UK. The campaign was supported by Canadian industrialist and motorsport enthusiast Chuck Rathgeb, with Margulies and experienced former BMC factory driver Andrew Hedges slated as co-drivers.
Targa Triumph and Racing Heritage: Despite Rathgeb’s initial involvement, the Targa Florio effort proceeded with Margulies and Hedges behind the wheel. Against a formidable field including factory-entered prototypes from Ferrari and Alfa Romeo, as well as Porsche Carrera RSRs, the privately entered 911 RS 2.7 Lightweight qualified respectably and went on to achieve an impressive 18th overall finish, and fourth in the over 2-litre GT category. This remarkable result underscored the car’s inherent performance and the skill of its drivers.
A Rally Career in Northern Ireland: Following its successful outing in Sicily, the 911 RS 2.7 Lightweight was sold to Belfast-based Porsche agent Reggie McSpadden in early 1975. A prominent figure in the Northern Ireland Rally scene, McSpadden prepared the car for Special Stages and is understood to have competed in the Circuit of Ireland, Texaco, and Donegal Rallies later that year, further adding to its motorsport provenance.
Ulster Rally Victory and Continued Competition: In 1976, the car was acquired by fellow Ulsterman Esler Crawford. While Crawford himself had a history as a co-driver, he entrusted the 911 RS 2.7 Lightweight to brothers Derek and Adrian Boyd for competition over the next three seasons. Notably, in the hands of Derek Boyd, the car achieved a superb outright victory in the 1977 Ulster Rally against renowned rally drivers. Further impressive results followed, with third and fourth-place finishes in the 1977 Donegal and Manx Rallies respectively, solidifying its reputation as a successful rally competitor.
Preservation and Low Mileage: After its competitive rallying career concluded in 1978, the 911 RS 2.7 Lightweight was meticulously preserved. Between 1995 and 1998, marque specialist Francis Tuthill undertook a comprehensive rebuild, with a strong emphasis on maintaining its originality. In 2007, after 31 years of ownership, Crawford parted with the car, which then joined a discerning UK-based collection. The car has been used sparingly over the years, with its odometer showing a remarkably low figure of just under 52,300 miles at the time of cataloging.
A Coveted Piece of Porsche History: Presented once again in its Comstock livery, complete with its original UK registration and Targa Florio start numbers, this 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Lightweight stands as a truly exceptional and highly historic example. Accompanied by an extensive history file, including its original purchase invoice, maintenance books, Targa Florio entry paperwork, and even period insurance documents, its impeccable preservation and significant racing history make it an incredibly rare and desirable offering.
Summary:
- One of only 200 RS 2.7 Lightweights produced.
- One of just 17 right-hand drive examples.
- Competed in the 1973 Targa Florio, finishing 18th overall and 4th in class.
- Contested in several Northern Ireland Rallies, including a victory in the 1977 Ulster Rally.
- Boasts a comprehensive history file with original documentation.
- Low mileage with just under 52,300 miles.
- Presented in its original Comstock racing livery.
Disclaimer: Historical details are provided based on available documentation. The originality and specific features should be verified through thorough inspection.
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