Porsche 911 Carrera

vs

Porsche 911

Germany vs Germany — 1984 vs 1973

Porsche 911 Carrera (1984)
Porsche 911 (1973)
Specifications
911 Carrera 3.2911 2.7 RS Carrera
Horsepower231 hp210 hp
Torque209 lb-ft188 lb-ft
Engine Size3,164 cc2,687 cc
0-60 mph5.3 sec5.6 sec
Top Speed155 mph152 mph
¼ Mile13.6 sec14.1 sec
Weight2,668 lbs1,984 lbs
Wheelbase2,272 mm2,271 mm
Length4,291 mm4,147 mm
Units Produced76,4731,580
Original MSRP$31,950$11,000
Value (Excellent)$135,000$1,200,000
Collectibility8/1010/10
Rarity4/1010/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 excels in quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value, while the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

Tracing the evolution of the Porsche 911 Carrera from 1984 to 1973 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Porsche. The 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 231 hp compared to 210 hp, a 21-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 Carrera uses a Flat-6 SOHC 12V displacing 3,164 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 edges ahead at 5.3 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. The Porsche 911 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 684 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,580 units built, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911 Carrera's 76,473 examples. On the collector market, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera commands a significant premium over the 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.