Matching Numbers Lifetime California Car. Original Tangerine Car with Books and Extensive Documentation
1969 Porsche 911S
s/n 119300117, Engine no. 6390173
Tangerine with Black Leatherette Interior
The now iconic Porsche 911 was revealed to an eager automotive public in the fall of 1963 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Developed as a replacement for the highly successful 356, the 911 arrived with more power, more comfort, and a favorable price when compared against similar cars of the period. The 911 became the darling of the automotive press, and rightly so. Performance and sales were brisk, but as Porsche often did, immediate performance enhancements were put in place. For the 1969 model year, the wheelbase was increased 2.25” to improve handling, (cleverly relocating the independently sprung rear wheel mounts without changing costly chassis tooling), lightening the crankcase by using magnesium, and delicately flaring the wheel arches to allow room for wider wheels and tires.
In 1967, Porsche introduced the performance packed 911S, which included titanium alloy connecting rods, a re-profiled camshaft, larger valves, better porting, higher compression ratio and 40 IDS Weber carburetors. All this resulted in 30 more horsepower for a total 160 horsepower. Chassis upgrades included a rear anti-roll bar, stiffer front anti-roll bar, Koni shocks and ventilated disc brakes, which replaced the standard solid rotors. For the S model, special gear ratios were installed in the five-speed transmission including an overdrive in 5th gear. Cosmetically, the 911S also marked the production introduction of the now legendary Fuchs alloy wheel design. Other cosmetic changes included a leather rimmed steering wheel, basketweave dashboard trim, thicker deco strips, and special badging. For 1969, Weber carburetors were replaced my mechanical fuel injection, yielding an additional 10hp.
This particular 911S is an exceptional numbers matching example originally purchased in San Diego, California. Still finished in its stunning original color of tangerine (or blutorange or “blood orange” as it was called in German), it has been faithfully owned and preserved by a series of California owners since new. The car has remained in largely original condition for almost 40 years, supported by extensive documentation dating back to 1971. The car was resprayed in the original 6809 Tangerine color by a well-known Porsche expert in Los Angeles in the early 2000s and remains in very good condition. The original paint remains in the jambs and underside of the front decklid, which showcases this particular car’s superb original structure. Verified by the Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, this 911S was delivered with optional fog lights, tinted glass, antenna, Frankfurt radio, and rear tow hook.
A robust file of documents attest to the care and preservation afforded to this exceptional Porsche since new. In recent years, the car has been treated to a sensitive restoration while retaining originality wherever possible. The engine was professionally rebuilt in 2001 with correct NOS “S” valves, using Porsche parts whenever possible. In 2013, showing 40,297 miles, $10,000.00 was spent on the engine including new belts, tensioners, guides, chain housing o-rings, oil strainer gaskets, transmission flange seals, new ignition coil, and the mechanical fuel injection properly adjusted for easy starts and smooth operation. Later in the year, with 40,515 miles showing, an additional $2,000.00 was spent on the brakes, including a new master cylinder, new pedal assembly, pedal bushings, brake hoses, and various front and rear suspension bushings were replaced.
Today showing 41,707 miles, the car presents beautifully, with excellent high gloss paint throughout the entire car, with only minor evidence of road use present in the lower portion of the front valance. The door jambs and other inner body surfaces display excellent paint finish, and the rubber, weather stripping, and trim are all properly finished and in good order. All panels open and shut as expected, displaying consistent dimensions and fit, with crisp door closures and excellent operation to all panels. There are no major flaws to detract significantly from the car’s visual presentation either in the finish, rubber bumper trim, or various plated parts. The chrome is very good to excellent condition, while the lights, lenses, and glass are in excellent condition with good gloss, clarity, and coloring. The exterior window garnish is in particularly nice condition. The Fuchs alloy wheels are very nicely presented with proper finish and clean rims with no significant marks or curb rash. Michelin tires are appropriately sized, showing excellent tread.
The original interior is extremely pleasing visually as it has been mercifully preserved with the exception of the headliner, which was replaced when the car was repainted. Door panels, dash, and rear seats are very nicely preserved original pieces with the only notable exception being a small crack in the rarely seen smooth and solid original dash. The original carpeting is in good condition overall boasting a worn driver’s side foot ingress, attesting to the originality and appropriate use of this fine sports car. The instruments, dial faces, and needles are in excellent unrestored condition and function as expected. The steering wheel, radio, and wonderfully preserved knobs and switches handsomely complete the black interior. All show some patina and remarkably minor aging considering they are nearly 50 years old.
The engine compartment and trunk are both very tidy and reflect the quality of the maintenance and respect given to the unrestored portions of this Porsche throughout its lifetime. The engine has not only been mechanically restored, it has been restored utilizing correct finishes and appropriate fittings, and original style components creating a very cohesive overall presentation. The trunk features a correct factory Fuchs spare tire, proper finishes, and, once again, remarkable originality. 1969 was the last year of 911 to feature black finish to the inside of the trunk and engine compartment, which has been preserved on this example. The undercarriage is clean and solid, displaying nicely finished brakes, exhaust (including stainless steel SSI heat exchangers), and engine components against the dry California chassis. The tub appears original with no notable damage to the proper factory finishes, which appear original and unmolested as one might expect based on the ownership records and care afforded over the past 45 years.
The car starts quickly, revs responsively, and runs smoothly at idle with a pleasing exhaust note when blipping the throttle. Seating position and controls feel just right and ready for action - a hallmark of Porsche design. On the road, this 911S performs with ease and simplicity, making good power while delivering a tight ride, excellent handling, and spirited acceleration. The car pulls cleanly through the rev range without hesitation or excessive vibration. The motor is crisp, offering excellent power delivery. The transmission shifts smoothly warm or cold without bearing noise, working in harmony with the smoothly revving engine. The dogleg pattern and action is rewarding to the skilled operator and provides an enhanced sense of accomplishment when properly used. In corners, the front end feels tight and confident, providing the famously communicative vintage Porsche experience. The integrity of the car is delightfully revealed with each mile, validating the quality of the mechanical restoration, originality, and body integrity of the car. The brakes pull down straight without rotor runout on a solid, high pedal. Handling is very good overall with no rattles or cowl shudder when proceeding over bumps or rough roads.
This 911S is offered with the Porsche owner’s manual, Porsche maintenance record cards, technical specifications booklet, vinyl case, tools, Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, and a large file containing period ownership records, receipts for vintage service and repairs dating back to 1971, and current restoration and service records. This exceptionally well-maintained and preserved 911S combines great driving pleasure and wonderful cosmetics in delightful car with matching numbers, lifelong California history, as well as great colors and options.
The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.
Fantasy Junction • 510-653-7555 • 1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608