The Porsche 911 Carrera of the 1970s represents a crucial era in Porsche’s development of its iconic rear-engine sports car. Introduced in various iterations throughout the decade, the Carrera nameplate became associated with performance and racing pedigree.

Early 1970s

• 1973 – 911 Carrera RS 2.7

This was the first time the “Carrera” name was used on a 911. “Carrera” means “race” in Spanish and honours Porsche’s success in the Carrera Panamericana races.

• • Engine: 2.7-litre flat-six
  • Power: ~210 hp
  • Lightweight construction, ducktail spoiler, wider rear fenders
  • Only around 1,580 built
  • Built for homologation for Group 4 racing – now a collector’s classic

Mid-1970s

• 1974–1975 – 911 Carrera 2.7 (G-Series)
  After the success of the RS, Porsche released a new Carrera based on the G-Series body with impact bumpers (due to new U.S. crash standards).
  • Engine: 2.7-litre flat-six, similar to RS in some markets
  • Power varied by market: 210 hp (Europe), less in U.S. due to emissions regulations
  • Not as lightweight as RS, but still a capable road car

• 1976–1977 – 911 Carrera 3.0

A lesser-known but important Carrera model.

• • Engine: 3.0-litre flat-six (same base as 930 Turbo, but naturally aspirated)
  • Power: ~200 hp
  • Served as a bridge between earlier 2.7 and later SC models
  • Produced in relatively low numbers, now gaining attention from collectors

Late 1970s

• By 1978, Porsche phased out the Carrera name temporarily in favour of the 911 SC (Super Carrera).
  • The SC carried a 3.0L engine and aimed to simplify the 911 lineup.
  • The “Carrera” name would return in the 1980s with the 3.2 Carrera.