PICK OF THE DAY: Pristinely Restored Porsche 911 Karmann Coupe

While Porsche cars today are built entirely in its original Stuttgart factory as well as others in Finland and Slovakia, prior to the early 60s, its bodies were made by coachbuilders like Reutters, D’Iterien, Drauz, and Karmann before being assembled at the Zuffenhausen plant. After Porsche’s acquisition of Reutters, they continued to use Karmann for some 911 and 912 production (and later 914 and 968). There is some ürban legend that the Karmann bodies were lighter than the Porsche factory bodies, but this is more likely because most Karmann-built bodies were used in base 911, 911T and 912 production. These cars were more sparsely equipped—but only by perhaps a few kilos—than the 911S and 911L that were exclusive to the Porsche factory. In reality, a 911 built by Karmann is identical to a works one. There is also varying opinions that a 911 that’s pure Porsche should be worth more, while there’s a counter-argument that in an effort to win more of Porsche’s business, Karmann went beyond spec to build better cars. Fifty years later, it’s all minutia at best. An early 911 is highly collectible and very valuable. Period. In the last six months alone, actual sales prices have escalated an astonishing 15% and they continue to rise with even steeper growth. Simply put, there is no better investment in the automotive world—and very little outside of it—than an early 911. This example is a 1968 911 Karmann Coupe with an older restoration that has held up extremely well, with matching numbers against a Certificate of Authenticity. It is said to be absolutely rust-free with perfect paint and flawless interior. With just over 50,000 original miles on the clock and recent service that includes valve and carburetor adjustment, this is a car that doesn’t ignore these cars’ intent to be driven while looking exceptionally good. Bahama Yellow is perfect for the vintage and is a perennial favorite among Porsche collectors. It’s as good as it gets for under six figures. Find it here on Craigslist in Arvada CO for $85,000.