A Better '73 RS

Superman · 08-01-2003, 06:12 AM

I've been lax lately in my attempts to start fights on Fridays (you guys have been doing a pretty good job anyway....coupe v. Targa, etc), but I want to have an interesting discussion about whether it is even possible to improve upon a '73 RS.

My sense about this car is that there is a kind of synergy. 2+2=5. Everything works perfectly with everything else. There is a very rare and magical balance of components. For example, if you change wheels or tire sizes, this car's performance is eroded. So.....if someone were going to put together an RS clone, is there anything they can do...different from stock...that might improve its performance? 915 tranny, for example (I assume they had 901 trannies).

Porsche_monkey · 08-01-2003, 07:09 AM

V8. That should start the ball rolling ...

Neilk · 08-01-2003, 07:16 AM

Hey dumb*ss, don't you know that the RS had a 915?

Will that start a fight?

Scott Clarke · Scott Clarke's Garage

All '72s and later had 915s. How about a twin plug 2.8?
-Scott

Neilk · 08-01-2003, 07:20 AM

Just kidding about the dumb*ss comment. I think it needs a more advanced exhaust system like one out of a real Carrera, circa 1986.

pbs911 · pbs911's Garage

AC and leather electric seats to keep the driver comfy on the track.

Phoenix · Phoenix's Garage

Put the Gregg/Haywood team behind the wheel...

Elombard · 08-01-2003, 07:32 AM

How about electronic ignition, I think they had points? and its reversible for the concours....

Higher compression? I think with the ability to get higher octane gas etc. you could run higher compression get a nice performance boost without harming the package?

I disagree on the 2.8, I dont think those are very streetable??? never driven one though.

What about heavier T bars? Its kind of a taste thing but I am sure Porsche compromised a little for ride comfort since it was dual purpose, I like a little firmer ride on the street. Especially when its not a daily driver.

Chuck Moreland · 08-01-2003, 07:36 AM

For what intended purpose? Street, race, impress the neighbors...

Tyson Schmidt · 08-01-2003, 07:37 AM

1. Raise the compression ratio from the measly 8.5/1 to 10/1.

2. Ditch the 915 trans and go back to the better shifting, lighter, racing-shift-patterned 901 gearbox.

3. Go back to the '72 oil tank location for better weight distribution. (The first RS prototype had the '72 oil tank location.)

4. 7" and 8" Fuchs instead of the 6's and 7's.

Jim Richards · 08-01-2003, 07:50 AM

What Tyon said, except #2. Wasn't the 901 too light to handle the higher HP? I thought I read something about that somewhere. Perhaps in Frere's book? Maybe I'm just hearing voices or something.

Any suggestions for suspension or brakes? I don't know the 73RS details very well, but I imagine some improvements might be had here.

johncj8989 · 08-01-2003, 07:51 AM

Cupholders and scrambled egg 996 headlights.

Jim Richards · 08-01-2003, 07:59 AM

No GruppeBee influence of any sort.

dd74 · 08-01-2003, 08:09 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Jim Richards
No GruppeBee influence of any sort.

Trying to make it "a better car" would be a Gruppe B influence.

dd74 · 08-01-2003, 08:14 AM

Jim: take a look at Matt Holcomb's middle year RS, I think it's a '75. He did some nice engine work on it - puts out 260 and is still a 2.7, I believe.

Tyson has good ideas. I'd also look into 50-series tires to optimize the ratios in the 901 box if you go that route.

Sounds like a good project.

Mike Feinstein · Mike Feinstein's Garage

Radiator.

johncj8989 · 08-01-2003, 08:25 AM

Very funny Jim......oh wait...no it's not.

Dantilla · 08-01-2003, 08:25 AM

I'm suprised Superman is not voting for a mid-engine flat twelve.

targa911S · 08-01-2003, 08:25 AM

Marelli distributor for sure. Cup holders. Maybe a DVD player.

TerryBPP · 08-01-2003, 08:28 AM

20" gold spoke Daytons and Hydralics. Gauranteed to be on the fron of Low Rider Magazine.