The 1972 Porsche 911t marks a significant year in the iconic 911 lineage. Serving as the entry-level model, it was positioned below the more powerful 2.4L 911E and the high-performance 2.4L 911S within Porsche’s lineup. However, the 1972 model year brought substantial upgrades to the 911T, most notably the introduction of the larger 2.4-liter engine, a feature shared with its E and S siblings. This enhancement solidified the 911T’s position as a desirable classic, offering a compelling blend of performance and Porsche heritage.
The heart of the 1972 Porsche 911T was its newly enlarged 2,341 cc (2.3 L) engine, famously known as the “2.4 L”. This engine upgrade delivered increased power and torque, significantly improving the driving experience. Accompanying the new engine was the robust Type 915 transmission, a stronger gearbox designed to handle the increased output. For Rest of World (ROW) markets, the 911T featured carburetors and the Type 911/57 engine, producing 130 horsepower. Meanwhile, US-specification models boasted mechanical fuel injection (MFI) with the Type 911/51 engine, slightly increasing the power to 140 horsepower.
An evolution occurred in early 1973 for US-bound 911Ts, often designated as 1973.5 models or 911 T/E. These models adopted Bosch Continuous Injection System (CIS) fuel injection on the Type 911/91 engine (or Type 911/96 with Sportomatic transmission). This change maintained the US-spec power output at 140 hp while achieving reduced emissions, catering to evolving environmental regulations. The 1972-1973.5 Porsche 911T was available in both Coupe and Targa body styles, offering enthusiasts a choice of closed-top or open-air driving.
The 1972 ‘E-Series’ 2.4L 911T: A Detailed Look
The 1972 and 1973 model years are categorized as the ‘E-series’ and ‘F-series’ respectively for the 2.4-litre 911 range. Within the E-series, the 2.4-liter 911 was offered in three distinct variants: the 911T, 911E, and 911S, each delivering progressively higher levels of performance and features. The 1972 911T, while the entry point, benefited from the same chassis enhancements as the higher models.
Changes to the body and suspension were subtle yet effective. A 3mm increase in wheelbase, achieved by relocating the rear suspension mounting points, resulted in improved suspension travel and a more comfortable ride quality. Optional upgrades included Boge hydro-pneumatic shocks and stylish 15-inch Fuchs alloy wheels, allowing buyers to personalize their 911T.
The 2.4-liter engine was the centerpiece of the upgrade, providing a noticeable boost in both power and torque. Beyond performance gains, these engines were designed to be more efficient and environmentally conscious for the era. Key engine improvements included new camshafts, lighter and shorter connecting rods, reduced-height piston crowns, enhanced cylinder head porting, a fully counterbalanced crankshaft, a reinforced crankcase around the main bearings, and a new forged crankshaft. These refinements contributed to a more robust and responsive engine.
All 2.4-litre 911s, including the 1972 911T, were equipped with the new Type 915 gearbox. This transmission marked a significant shift from the previous dogleg first gear pattern to a more conventional H-pattern, improving ease of use for most drivers. The 911T was offered with a four-speed manual gearbox as standard. The optional four-speed Sportomatic semi-automatic transmission remained available. 911Ts equipped with the Sportomatic transmission used engine type 911/67 (carbureted), while fuel-injected Sportomatic versions used engine type 911/61.
Cosmetically, the E-series 911s featured a relocated oil filler cap, positioned behind the right-hand door and accessible via a button on the door pillar. This change, while intended as an improvement, led to confusion among owners who sometimes mistook the oil filler for the fuel tank. Other universal changes included a black engine grille replacing the previous aluminum version and gunmetal model script instead of anodized gold badging. A larger driver’s side wing mirror became standard, while a passenger-side mirror remained an optional extra.
Production for the 1972 model year commenced in August 1971 and spanned twelve months. A total of 4894 911 T Coupes and 3344 911 T Targas were produced, making them relatively accessible compared to higher-spec models, yet still exclusive in classic Porsche terms.
The 1973 ‘F-Series’ Updates for the 911T
The 1973 ‘F-Series’ 911 brought further refinements. The most notable functional change was the relocation of the oil filler back to the traditional position, addressing the confusion caused by the 1972 placement. Cosmetic updates included black horn grilles and supplementary light surrounds, replacing the previous chrome finish. US models received black rubber overrider pads on the bumpers to comply with new safety regulations.
In January 1973, US-spec 911Ts with fuel injection transitioned to the Bosch K-Jetronic Continuous Injection System and incorporated new camshafts. This change marked the move to the 1973.5 specification. Production of the F-series 911 continued until July 1973. For the 1973 model year, 5071 coupes and 3594 targas were produced, showing consistent production numbers and continued demand for the 911T.
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