Unveiled at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Porsche 911 succeeded the beloved, but aging, 356. While retaining the rear-engine, 2+2 layout of its predecessor, the new model introduced advancements including a wind tunnel-tested profile, a larger, more luxurious cabin, an air-cooled 2.0-liter flat-six engine, four-wheel independent suspension, and rack and pinion steering.

This 1965 Porsche 911 is an early short-wheelbase, “wood dash” example finished in special-order Champagne Yellow (6405) over a black leatherette interior. Additional equipment included a Webasto gas heater and a Blaupunkt Frankfurt radio with a loudspeaker and antenna.

According to the extensive documentation on file, this car was ordered by William O. Lewis, an attorney from Colton, California, through Porsche-Volkswagen dealer Morgensen Motors of Phoenix. In an April 1965 letter, Mr. Lewis inquired about factory delivery for the then-new 911 model. A subsequent response letter from Morgensen confirmed Mr. Lewis’ order for an August 1965 tourist delivery of a Porsche 911.

In December 1965, after concluding his travels, Mr. Lewis wrote to Morgensen again, saying, “We picked up our car August 18 at Stuttgart and drove it for approximately 3,000 miles throughout central Europe. The factory service was excellent, and the car performed beautifully, adding greatly to the enjoyment of our trip.”

Mr. Lewis registered the 911 with the California black license plate “RPS 691,” which it still wears today, and had the car regularly attended to by local authorized Porsche dealerships including Jack Van Wyk Volkswagen in San Bernardino and Chick Iverson Inc. in Newport Beach. Spanning from the time of the car’s delivery through the mid-1990s, the multitude of receipts and invoices offer clear evidence Mr. Lewis cared for and cherished the 911 throughout his life.

In 1995, Mr. Lewis transferred the 911 to one of his sons, and the car is believed to have remained within the family until about 2011, when it was purchased by its current owner. Having been stored and not driven extensively for many years, the new owner addressed remedial service items but otherwise left this 911 in its current well-preserved “survivor” condition.

Retaining its matching-numbers power train, this 911 is offered with books, a partial tool kit, jack, spare, Kardex, and a treasure trove of receipts, invoices, correspondence, and other documentation dating back to new. Currently fitted with Weber carburetors, a set of correct Solex carburetors with the proper air filter housing accompanies the car.

Presented here is a rare opportunity to acquire a first production-year 911 with a rich Southern California provenance, exceptional documentation, and uncommon originality.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled 1966.