We tend to place great emphasis on classic and sports car models being kept in bone-stock, factory condition, but there is a fine line where you can get away with making some modifications that objectively make the car better without necessarily detracting from its appeal. This 1987 Porsche 911 appears to walk that line well, with some alterations from stock that most 911 enthusiasts would agree make the car objectively better, while also sporting some improvements that help preserve its originality. The 911 is listed here on eBay with 135,695 miles on the clock and bidding currently at $42,600 with the reserve unmet.

The 911 spots a very pretty shade of paint known as Carmine Red, and the seller notes it was repainted in this factory color in 1998. Although I’m sure some flaws have appeared since then, it still presents well with no apparent issues. The 911 “ducktail” spoiler is a popular look in some circles, and it’s not a cheap upgrade; that being said, the seller is including the original decklid if you don’t dig the look. Given this 911 comes with $26k in Rothsport maintenance and upgrades, it seems this one was built for driving, not for show. Along those lines, the seller removed the A/C and heating components for weight savings, so this one is not meant for cold climates.

Even with an emphasis on performance over comfort, the 911 still comes with a nicely presented interior including later bucket seats in black leather that show no apparent flaws; it helps that they were redone about 1,000 miles ago. The 911 comes with an aftermarket steering wheel, which is actually a nice enhancement over the stock wheel. Other features include the preferred G50 manual transmission and Rothsport Racing “high butterfly” fuel injection. The dash doesn’t show any cracks and the door panels look quite nice; despite being a performance car, the seller and owners prior to him haven’t gutted the cabin in the interest of weight savings, which certainly seemed like a possibility when you learn they deleted the heating system.

But it really is a breath of fresh air to see an air-cooled 911 that hasn’t been turned into a museum piece you’re hesitant to use. Plus, you can reverse the few cosmetic enhancements there are and preserve the engine build for an air-cooled sleeper. The upgrades under the hood are well worth it, and hopefully, the build included suspension upgrades as well. The seller confirms there is no rust and no dents, and that the lucky new owner will get an extra set of new tires thrown into the deal as well. A 911 like this represents the essence of the air-cooled coupe, with some choice upgrades, refreshed cosmetics, and a driving experience that will make you want to stay out well past your bedtime.