The 3.0 RS, Honestly

The 1973 Carrera 3.0 RS is one of the most coveted Porsches in the world. It is also one of the most routinely confused with its lighter, smaller sibling, the 2.7 RS. The two cars are related, but they are not the same proposition — and the market is finally beginning to treat them differently.

What it is

For 1974, Porsche enlarged the Carrera RS engine to 3.0 litres and stiffened the chassis around it. The result was a homologation special with twice the wing area, half the door panel and an extra 800 rpm of usable range. 109 road cars left Zuffenhausen. Most went directly to privateer racing teams. Some never left the showroom.

What to look for

Originality of the engine is non-negotiable. Many 3.0 RS chassis were re-engined during their racing lives, which is part of their history but a different value proposition. A matching-numbers car — confirmed by Porsche Certificate of Authenticity — commands a clear premium. We have inspected cars at every point on this spectrum.

The bodyshell is the other story. RS-spec lightweight body, factory steel arches, original glass: these are the markers that separate a serious car from a competent restoration. We use a paint depth gauge before we use our eyes.

A 3.0 RS is judged on three things: its engine number, its bodyshell, and its history. Everything else can be fixed.

Internal RGB Motors appraisal guide

What it is worth

The market for the 3.0 RS has moved decisively in the last 36 months. The strongest results are reserved for matching-numbers, documented, road-spec examples. Race-history cars have a separate, parallel curve that has appreciated more slowly but more steadily. A car offered without a Certificate of Authenticity will trade at a meaningful discount in either market.

We are currently offering a documented example through private placement. The dossier is available to qualified buyers on request.