1977 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 Coupe

It's hard to believe the 911 was launched more than four decades ago, but at the time of its arrival in 1963 the latest Porsche was hailed as a masterpiece and has become an enduring motoring legend. Retaining the rear-engined layout of its predecessor, the 356, the air-cooled, horizontally opposed engine now had six cylinders but the rest of the 911 was entirely new, with monocoque construction and timeless styling that has become one the most widely recognised sports car shapes ever created. The 911 underwent constant development over the years, with the motor expanding from the original 2-litre capacity through 2.4 and 2.7 versions before the 3-litre model was introduced in 1975. Bosch fuel injection had been adopted from 1974, giving smoother operation and much better fuel economy. The wheelbase was increased by 560mm in 1968, improving both weight distribution and handling, while the body shells were fully galvanised with the introduction of the 1976 range. Between August 1975 and July 1977, the 3-litre Carrera was the top of the 911 range and only marginally slower than its big brother, the 930 Turbo. Powered by the 2997cc engine developing some 200 horsepower at 6000 rpm, the new 930/02 motor employed the latest K-Jetronic engine management system and all Carreras were equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard (the controversial Sportomatic remained an option but few outside America chose it). Built in tiny numbers, with just 3,691 made in total, the 911 Carrera 3-litre represents excellent value for money in today's market, offering plenty of useable performance, practicality and reliability and their value can only appreciate into the future.