West Germany vs Germany — 1978 vs 1972
| 911 SC Targa | 911 Carrera RS 2.7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 196 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,994 cc | 2,687 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 146 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,557 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,272 mm | 2,271 mm |
| Length | 4,291 mm | 4,147 mm |
| Units Produced | 58,914 | 1,580 |
| Original MSRP | $27,450 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 10/10 |
The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa 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.
The Porsche 911 SC lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa with the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 reveals how Porsche refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 180 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. The Porsche 911 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 407 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 Porsche 911 SC's 58,914 examples. On the collector market, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.