There are a few stereotypes that come to most people's minds when you mention the world "sportscar". Most will picture something like a Mustang or a Jaguar - a long hood with a short rear deck and two doors. Some will picture a coupe, some may think of a convertible. The typical sportscar soundtrack is where things get a little more concrete. Most people, enthusiasts included, will imagine something sounding vaguely like a 911. The legendary screaming flat-six is uniquely tied to sportscar culture as it represents the powerhouse for the most recognizable sportscar ever made.
The 911 has grown, both physically and metaphorically, to be representative of what sportscars car meant to be. Rear-wheel drive driving pleasure that can be used every day, given you choose the right spec. Endorphins are shot straight through the front wheels and into the steering wheel for an unmistakable driving experience. Near perfect weight distribution means balance through the corners. It also means more traction for canyon carving mornings. From Magnus Walker to Jerry Seinfeld car nuts from all walks of life are obsessed with the little Porsche. Suffice to say, people really like the 911.
A weekend trip to a local Aston Martin dealership brought me face-to-face with an early incarnation of the Stuttgart legend. Subtle grey paint with muted neutral interior colors did not make for the most visually interesting experience but you can't deny the simple beauty in an early 911. The small sportscar sits comfortably in its own form. The 911 never needed to impose, only impress.
The 911 sat directly across from the front door of the dealership, almost waiting to greet you as you walked in saying "You weren't expecting to see me here were you?" Smug little bastard. I couldn't hold that against it, its been a while since I've seen a car made before 2012 that I could have some one-on-one time with. Huracans and Pistas are wonderful and all but sometimes you need to shake things up. There's a reason so many people turn to vinyl records for their Sunday jam sessions.
The interior is sparse, lacking any flair or drama. Its simple but wonderfully German. Everything seems to be where it should be, nothing extra and nothing out of place. I can imagine a 911 being a watch maker's or watch enthusiast's dream. All of the pieces come together to work in synchronous harmony for mechanical perfection. Each gauge is like a simple clock face or a barometer from an old fishing boat. There's something so pleasing about old mechanics.
The first few renditions of the 911 were simple machines. Easy to drive on a daily basis and when pushed could deliver the experience we all crave from automobiles in spades. Low on horsepower and weight, high on fun. Yes, it has gotten much bigger and more complicated as it has evolved, but the same formula is still there. Rear-wheel drive, engine hanging over the rear wheels and a perfect blend of sportscar prowess and everyday approachability. It has become such a large part of sportscar culture that you don't even need to name it to place it in your mind.
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Comments (4)
Wow. It still looks great when parked next to modern exotics.
It’s a fantastic little car. Nice and simple
Wonderful, yes. Simple, no. Our 1974 911s PORSCHE. Driven every weekend on the California 2 lane roads.
That’s a gorgeous car. Pure white always looks good