August 14, 2016

PCA Panorama Review – August 2016

The Carrera 2.7 book review in August issue #713 of Porsche Club of America's Panorama magazine:

Just when you thought you owned every Porsche coffee table or reference book you needed, along comes Carrera 2.7 by Ryan Snodgrass. The iconic 1973 Carrera RS may be well documented, but its successor, the Carrera 2.7 MFI produced from 1974-1976, is a car little known by Porsche enthusiasts—until now.

The book begins with a brief history of the 1973 Carrera RS, explains why the Carrera 2.7 MFI was produced and the reason North America received a "watered-down" version. In addition, there is a chapter on special models, including the Carrera 2.7 Turbo, the Belgium Police Targas, and the extremely rare and desirable Sondermodell 1976—the final Porsche production car with an MFI engine. There a a chapter on racing, which includes details on the 1974 IROC RSR 3.0. At the end of the book, there are extensive appendices, including racing homologation, standard and optional equipment, detailed changes during the 1974-1976 run, and full technical specifications.

The sheer number of lists, charts, color samples, historical literature, dealer information and pricing, serial number decoders, and abundance of archival and contemporary photographs is beyond expectations. There are also superb blueprint, schematic, and cutaway diagrams throughout. Combine all of that with colorful, stylish graphic design and high-quality materials, and this becomes not only a book you won't be able to put down, but also one that you will refer to again and again.