Over the last 15 years pre-1974 Porsche 911’s have enjoyed a sharp rise. The first model year for the Porsche 911 was 1964, with it’s debut at the International Motor Show in 1963. While those early model years are collectible, the later models are often considered better drivers. By the later models of 1966-1973 the look of the Porsche 911 became more refined.
The models from 1970-1973, especially the 1972, represent a peak in engine reliability and performance before Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations required larger bumpers which greatly changed the look of the 1973+ Porsche 911. From 1966-1972 the Porsche 911 also had the iconic Fuchs wheels.
The 1972 model year 911 is the last year before the large DOT rubber bumper extensions on US 911’s.
In addition to this, 1972 is the only year that Porsche offered both a gas door and an oil fill up door. This was discontinued as people inadvertently added gas to the oil tank because it was on the back passengers side of the car (near the engine), which is the common location for many gas doors. The gas door on a Porsche 911 is on front drivers side fender.
In 1972 if you were buying a Porsche 911, you could by the base model 911T, the mid range 911E, or high end 911S. The 911S is the most collectible.
1972 Porsche 911 Engine
The three Porsche 911 models had engines with different outputs. The base model 911T produced 157 hp, the 911E produced 185 hp, and the 911S produced 210 hp.
1972 Porsche 911 Production Numbers
In 1972 Porsche 911 production hit 12,962. However, only 1750 were 911S.