Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII

vs

Porsche 911

United Kingdom vs Germany — 1967 vs 1972

Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII (1967)
Porsche 911 (1972)
Specifications
3000 MkIII Phase 2911 Carrera RS 2.7
Horsepower150 hp210 hp
Torque178 lb-ft188 lb-ft
Engine Size2,912 cc2,687 cc
0-60 mph9.8 sec5.5 sec
Top Speed120 mph152 mph
¼ Mile17.3 sec14.1 sec
Weight2,509 lbs2,150 lbs
Wheelbase2,337 mm2,271 mm
Length3,962 mm4,147 mm
Units Produced17,7121,580
Original MSRP$3,595
Value (Excellent)$95,000$1,500,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity7/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII Phase 2 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Putting the 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII Phase 2 against the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — United Kingdom versus Germany. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 150 hp, a 60-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 2,912 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. The Porsche 911 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 359 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,580 units built, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII's 17,712 examples. On the collector market, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII Phase 2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.