Germany vs Germany — 1972 vs 1971
| 911 Carrera RS 2.7 | 917 K | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 210 hp | 580 hp |
| Torque | 188 lb-ft | 428 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,687 cc | 4,907 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 2.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 152 mph | 224 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.1 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,150 lbs | 1,764 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,271 mm | 2,300 mm |
| Length | 4,147 mm | 4,140 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,580 | 12 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $20,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1971 Porsche 917 K with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Porsche has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 with the 1971 Porsche 917 K highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1971 Porsche 917 K holds a clear advantage in raw power with 580 hp compared to 210 hp, a 370-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 uses a Flat-6 SOHC displacing 2,687 cc, while the Porsche 917 relies on a Flat-12 DOHC with 4,907 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Porsche 917 K edges ahead at 2.3 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. The Porsche 917 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 386 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 12 units built, the 1971 Porsche 917 K is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911's 1,580 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Porsche 917 K commands a significant premium over the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.