The 1972 Porsche 911S is widely regarded as one of the finest early 911s ever produced—representing a perfect balance of lightweight engineering, mechanical purity, and increasing performance refinement. By the early ’70s, Porsche had begun to fine-tune its now-iconic rear-engine formula, and the 911S stood at the top of the model range, offering sharper handling, more power, and subtle design evolutions that would influence decades of 911 development.

Visually, the ’72 911S retained the classic long-hood look that enthusiasts covet today. Slim chrome bumpers, delicate Fuchs alloy wheels, and a lean, purposeful stance gave the car a minimalist, sporting appearance. One unique feature set the 1972 model apart from all other classic 911s: the oil filler door located on the right rear fender—an engineering choice made to optimize weight distribution. The idea was sound, but confusion at gas stations (some mistook it for the fuel filler) led Porsche to eliminate the feature after just one year, making the ’72 model especially distinctive.

Powering the 911S was a 2.4-liter air-cooled flat-six engine, the largest yet offered in a 911 at the time. Producing 190 horsepower and revving to an exhilarating 7,200 rpm, the engine delivered lively performance, especially when paired with the 5-speed Type 915 manual transmission introduced the same year. With a curb weight under 2,400 pounds, the 911S offered razor-sharp handling, brisk acceleration, and one of the most visceral driving experiences of its era.

Mechanical fuel injection (MFI) gave the 911S its signature throttle response and helped extract maximum power from the high-revving engine. The chassis was tuned for performance, with upgraded sway bars, stiffer dampers, and ventilated disc brakes at all four corners. Everything about the car was focused on balance and feel—qualities that made the 911S a favorite on both backroads and racetracks.

Inside, the cabin featured classic Porsche simplicity: a large central tachometer, bucket seats, and a no-nonsense dash layout. Comforts were minimal, but the sense of craftsmanship and precision was unmistakable.

The 1972 Porsche 911S remains one of the most desirable early 911s, thanks to its unique features, engaging dynamics, and its place at the pinnacle of Porsche’s pre-impact bumper era. It’s a car that rewards skilled driving and celebrates a time when performance was about finesse, not brute force.

Today, the ’72 911S is a benchmark for vintage sports car excellence—an icon of analog precision, beloved by collectors and purists alike.