Lifestyle

Iconic Classic Cars: 1973 Porsche 911 G Series

The original Porsche 911 was a high end sports car made by Porsche AG. Initially introduced in 1963, the 1973 G Series saw some enhancements on the original model while keeping its distinct style.

The G series featured prominent bellows bumpers, an enhanced safety feature implemented to meet the most recent crash test standards in the US. Made of plastic and rubber, the latest innovations to the bumper generated mixed reviews as they were bulkier than the previous series. However, driver and passenger safety was at the forefront of design so three-point safety belts were fitted as standard equipment.

The key feature and change to the interior was the integrated headrests – a feature to define the brand for over two decades with minimal changes. Other trademark fittings of the 911 included the front blinkers that moved from the fenders to the bumper and the rear reflective panel with ‘PORSCHE’ lettering. Finishing touches like door trims and side window demist vents increased the quality of the 911.

Like its predecessors, the G series featured three models. The 911 (featured throughout) the faster 911S upgrade and the Carrera. All models used a 2.7L flat six engine and a new Bosch fuel injector, however the amount of power varied from model to model. Varying in price, engine size and performance, drivers were able to choose an option best suited to their budget and their preferred body style.

One of the most significant milestones in the 911 chronicle was in 1974 at the unveiling of the first Porsche 911 Turbo with a 3L 260hp engine and gigantic rear spoiler. With its distinctive blend of luxury and performance, the Turbo became the embodiment of the Porsche allure.

Described as a testament of perseverance, the Porsche 911 has withstood the test of time and is still being manufactured today. Although there are differences from then to now, the fundamentals of the 911 generation prevail. This iconic car is a living legend and will continue to hold that title for many years to come.

Did You Know?

The ‘G model’ was produced from 1973-1989 and lasted longer than any other 911 generation. It remains an all-time classic for collectors worldwide.
Despite numerous series in the 911 generation, the Porsche 911 has only been completely redesigned twice.

Car Specification

Car	Porsche 911 G Series
Production	1973-1989
Top Speed (mph)	142
Doors	2
Length (mm)	4569
Weight (kg)	1468
Engine	2.7L 2687 cc
BHP	210bhp
Torque (Nm)	288
0-60mph	7s

The Best of 1973

1973 was a tumultuous year for the UK and countries across the world. Inflation rates of 8.4% in the UK put strain on the economy as fuel, food and household bills rose. The US suffered similar woes and the rest of the world dealt with conflict and other issues. Despite the turbulent events of 1973, the 911 generation prevailed, with the G series in particular being distinguished as the most successful car of the collection.

World Events

The Three-Day Week was put in place in the UK to conserve electricity due to a low power supply, leaving only essential services like hospitals and supermarkets running as normal. Overseas the Vietnam War had ended, bringing many men home to the USA to find the country in the midst of a stock market decline.

Amongst the tribulation of 1973, sporting events like Billie Jean King beating legend Bobby Riggs in “The Battle of the Sexes” tennis match in the United States lightens the mood. Reported to be the most watched tennis match worldwide, an estimated 90 million viewers tuned in with a further 30,000 spectators at the venue in Houston.

The World Trade Center in New York was crowned the world’s tallest building while on the other side of the world the Sydney Opera House was opened.

Film & TV

A progressive year for film, 1973 saw the first Chinese martial arts film produced by a major Hollywood studio with Bruce Lee’s Enter the Dragon. Unfortunately, the actor passed away 6 days before its release, darkening a progressive event in the film industry.

Other movements in film included the reawakening of the horror genre with The Exorcist hitting the box office. The film’s success has encouraged numerous remakes over recent decades.

Stepping away from the paranormal and towards something more realistic was Serpico, a neo-noir drama that retells the story of corruption in the American police force. Receiving accolades for performance, score and script, this film has gone down in history as a true great.

In 1973 the biggest event in television was Elvis Presley's television special ‘Aloha from Hawaii.’ This programme was watched around the world by more than 1 billion viewers, making it a huge success.

Music

Dominating the charts in 1973 was an array of artists, highlighting the sheer diversity and quality of music by the early 70’s. Traditional styles such as rock, soul and pop were inspiring musicians to branch away from the norm and lesser celebrated genres were storming the charts. Whether you were interested in funk, progressive rock or jazz, this year, and decade, had something for everyone’s musical taste buds.

Memorable songs like ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ – Pink Floyd, ‘Come on Feel the Noise’ – Slade, ‘Let’s Get It On’; – Marvin Gaye and Elton John’s ‘Crocodile Rock’ were just some of the defining tracks of the year.

Fashion

The prominent hippie/flower power trend of the 60’s infused the style of the early 70’s, with 1973 embracing bigger brighter prints while rocking larger untamed hair.

Day to day, men would have rocked the leisure suit, while a combination of loose floaty outfits and miniskirts were commonplace for women in 1973. More commonly used fabrics and textiles consisted of denim, corduroy, crochet, plaid and knit.

Famous births

•   Models Heidi Klum and Tyra Banks
•   Actors Leigh Francis (aka Keith Lemon) & Lena Headey – popular with Game of Thrones fans
•   Writer and filmmaker Seth McFarlane

Sources

Porsche 911 Timeline
Famous Births