Over £29,000 worth of documented parts, maintenance and improvements since 2005
Period bucket seats with houndstooth trim
Featured in Porsche World
Extensive history file spanning more than 35 years
Few cars combine the character and visual appeal of an early 911 with the performance and usability of the later G-Series as successfully as a well-executed backdate. This 1988 911 Carrera 3.2 is an especially appealing example, combining an S/T-style appearance with the highly regarded 3.2-litre flat-six and desirable G50 five-speed manual gearbox.
Finished in Black with chrome trim, the car has been transformed from its original G-Series appearance into a purposeful early-911-inspired interpretation. Inside, period-style bucket seats trimmed in Houndstooth are complemented by a Momo Prototipo steering wheel and lightweight RS-style seats, giving the cabin an appropriately sporting character.
The backdating work was undertaken approximately 15 years ago under the supervision of Paul Stephens, with body restoration by Nick Bentley. The quality and nature of the conversion were sufficiently notable for the car to be featured in Porsche World. The engine received a top-end rebuild by Porsche specialist Autowerke approximately 14,500 miles ago.
The current vendor purchased the Porsche approximately five years ago and has continued to use it regularly but lightly, describing it as an absolute joy to drive. The engine is reported to start immediately, settle to a smooth idle and pull strongly throughout the rev range, with the exhaust running cleanly and without visible smoke.
Importantly, the car is accompanied by an extensive history file extending more than 35 years, back to its 35,000-mile service in 1991. Over £29,000 worth of documented parts, maintenance and improvements have been carried out since the 135,000-mile mark in 2005, with suppliers including Zuffenhaus, Paul Stephens, Autowerke, Francis Tuthill and Porsche Centres. A selection of spare parts is also included.
With its desirable G50 transmission, charismatic flat-six and distinctive S/T-style appearance, this is a highly characterful interpretation of the 3.2 Carrera, offering a compelling blend of classic Porsche aesthetics, specialist provenance and genuine usability.
This is a driver's Porsche in the truest sense, a car that has been enjoyed, maintained and improved. A 911 that invites its next owner to get behind the wheel and use it as intended, whether for a spirited Sunday drive, a favourite road or a longer trip, while also offering the freedom to reimagine it to their own tastes without the hesitation that might come with a highly original concours example.
For the enthusiast looking for a distinctive, genuinely usable 911 with strong mechanical credentials, specialist involvement, extensive history and plenty of character, this is an especially appealing proposition. Consigned by Fraser Smith
Lot details
Year: 1988
Make: Porsche
Model: 911 Carrera 3.2 G50 Backdate to S/T style
Registration: AVG 85S
Chassis No: WP0ZZZ91ZJS100745
Odometer: 156,049
* 15,000 miles since top end engine rebuild
* Desirable G50 five-speed manual gearbox