Some listings just leave you with a good feeling in your stomach, as if the seller’s honesty is too genuine to ignore. The seller of this rare 1974 Porsche 911S comes across as a non-flipper, which is refreshing in this era of bubble-grade 911s. They claim to be the second owner of this numbers-matching example, which is both an early 1974 (denoted by 301 VIN number) model and real-deal “S” car with the 175 b.h.p. motor. Find it here on eBay with a reserve and bidding over $17K. 

The 911 is said to be a long-time California car wearing original paint and most all of its OE-spec equipment. A Certificate of Authenticity really is a must on a car like this, and the seller unfortunately doesn’t include one. He claims the chrome Fuchs wheels are original, and that the configuration it wears makes it one of 1,359 cars produced in 1974.

I believe these are the optional sport bucket seats, another feature that would be confirmed by the CoA. The seller mentions that mechanically, this 911S works as it should, with a running motor, working brakes, and no wonky electronics. The body does appear quite nice, an the seats show no evidence of excessive wear and tear.

The seller even invites viewers to Facetime with him via iPhone, which is a level of access I’d be reluctant to give! The engine bay doesn’t appear excessively tidy – which is a concern since the numbers-matching engine is a huge part of what you’re buying. There’s some evidence of staining and the wiring isn’t as clean as you’d hope. Is this simply a car that’s been lovingly maintained at home by long-time owners, or is a potential project?