From Rally Tracks to Roads: The Enduring Spirit of a 1968 Porsche 911T/R

From Rally Tracks to Roads: The Enduring Spirit of a 1968 Porsche 911T/R

When you think about iconic sports cars, the 1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe always comes to mind, holding a special place in automotive history. This particular model isn’t just any classic car. It carries a fascinating story of competition and endurance. From its early days tearing through rally stages to its later life on the track, this Porsche has seen it all. Its unique insights truly make it a standout among vintage vehicles.

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1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe

The Rally Genesis

This amazing machine started its life in December 1967. Porsche’s Swedish distributor, Scania-Vabis, received it. They specifically commissioned this car for intense rally use across Scandinavia and Northern Europe. Initially, it quickly plunged into the competitive world of the Swedish KAK Rally. Later that same year, it showed its prowess at the legendary 1968 Monte Carlo Rally. There, it secured an impressive fifth in class and twelfth overall finish. Ake Anderson and Sven-Olof Svedberg skillfully piloted it.

Track Life and Transformation

Following its rally career, this Porsche smoothly transitioned into a circuit racer. It quickly adapted to the demands of track competition. Later, Gulf Oil stepped in with sponsorship. This led to an exciting conversion to Group 4 specifications. This transformation included fitting fiberglass wide-body front fenders and robust steel rear fenders. A sturdy roll bar was also added for safety.

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1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe

A Storied Competition History

This 911T/R spent several seasons competing vigorously in Swedish rally races. It consistently demonstrated its remarkable capabilities. After a successful racing career, the car officially retired in 1975. For a brief period, it was even registered for street use. Ultimately, it was placed into storage, patiently awaiting its next chapter until the late 1990s.

Reawakening a Classic

After a change in ownership, a comprehensive mechanical refurbishment brought the car back to life. This meticulous work paved the way for its FIA Historic Vehicle Identity Form in 2000. Soon after, the Porsche proudly participated in numerous vintage races throughout Europe. Its racing spirit truly re-emerged during this period.

1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe

Its Current Chapter

The current owner acquired this remarkable 1968 Porsche 911T/R in 2001. They imported it from the UK to the US. Here, it received a stunning repaint in a classic Gulf-style blue and orange livery. This iconic color scheme perfectly suits the car’s racing pedigree. It definitely turns heads wherever it goes.

Power and Performance

Under the hood, this 1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe packs a punch. It features a 2.0-liter Type 901/02 flat-six engine. This powerful unit has been fitted with twin-plug cylinder heads. It also breathes effortlessly through a pair of Weber 46 IDA 3C triple-throat carburetors. Shifting gears is a smooth experience. A Type 901 five-speed manual gearbox handles power delivery. It works with a limited-slip differential. This setup ensures excellent handling and responsiveness. This powertrain was carried over from the 911S. It was modified in period with 906-style twin-plug cylinder heads. The engine underwent an overhaul in the early 2000s. Its carburetors were adjusted and synchronized in October 2023. At that time, technicians replaced throttle plate bushings. They also changed spark plugs, fuel hoses, and the fuel filter.

1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe

Chassis and Wheel Details

The car rides on a unique staggered combination of wheels. You will find 15-inch Fuchs wheels at the front. Minilite-style wheels are on the rear. Bridgestone tires, sized 205/50 and 225/50 respectively, wrap them. Stopping power comes from ATE calipers. These work with four-wheel ventilated discs. A brake fluid flush was performed in October 2023.

Interior and Safety Features

Inside, a robust roll bar provides added safety. It sits behind black vinyl front bucket seats. These seats boast maroon cloth inserts. Sparco multi-point harnesses secure occupants. Sound deadening material has been added. There’s also a black headliner and fitted carpets. Lightweight door panels further enhance the interior. T/R-branded floor mats are a nice touch. A map light and a pair of rally timers are also present. A fire-suppression system provides additional safety. Interestingly, the armrests and door pulls were sourced from a Volvo sedan.

1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe

Dashboard and Instrumentation

A leather-wrapped MOMO steering wheel sits front and center. It frames 911S-specification VDO instrumentation. A central tachometer, with a 7,200-rpm redline, dominates the display. It is flanked by a 250-km/h speedometer. A pair of combination gauges and an analog clock complete the setup. The five-digit odometer shows 98k kilometers. This translates to about 61k miles. The total mileage remains unknown.

Fuel and Storage

This Porsche was specified with a 100-liter anti-surge fuel tank. This large tank is securely stored in the front trunk compartment. You will also find a strut tower brace there. A spare Fuchs wheel with an orange-finished center is also present.

1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe

Documentation and Legacy

The copy of the Kardex outlines its initial delivery to Scania-Vabis. It also lists factory colors, equipment, and powertrain numbers. The FIA Historic Vehicle Identity Form was completed in 2000. Additional pages detailing the car’s specifications are available. Magazines featuring the car, previous registration documents, and historical correspondence are included. Service records also accompany this special vehicle. Period photos further enhance its rich history.

1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe

Summary:

This 1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe is a truly exceptional vehicle. It offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of rallying and racing history. Its documented past and distinctive features make it incredibly desirable. The car’s robust engine and thoughtful modifications underscore its performance capabilities. This Porsche truly represents a golden era of motorsports. Its rich history and careful preservation make it a remarkable find.

Disclaimer: All information regarding this vehicle is provided as a general overview. Prospective buyers should conduct their own thorough inspections and verifications.

1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe
1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe
1968 Porsche 911T/R Coupe

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