bat auction success

Understanding baT Auction Success Story: Everything is Sunshine With rublem’s 911S Targa

Byjustpastevehicles

This Success Story comes to us from BaT member rublem, who won a 1971 Porsche 911S Targa from ECI in a November 2025 BaT auction:

When I got the follow-up email from BaT, they weren’t the only ones to ask, “How’s ownership going?” Most people I discussed my 911S Targa with have asked me this same question, and they have been surprised to realize that I bought the car in an internet auction, sight unseen. I’ve owned a very nice ’64 Porsche 356SC coupe for a couple of years now, and with that purchase, I laid eyes on it first.

I had wanted to add an early longhood 911 for some time to keep my 356 company. So the search began in early 2025—yellow, green, and blue cars were my focus. Two BaT listings grabbed my attention: a Kelly Green ’65 911, which sold on August 8th, and a Leaf Green (rare!) 911 coupe that sold in early September. Both of them got away from me, unfortunately. Then this yellow 911S Targa went live.

I was at the office when the bidding began heating up, and a meeting started around the same time the auction was slated to close. That was a dilemma. Some last-second bids reset the two-minute clock a few times, and it seemingly wouldn’t end. I had to leave for my meeting down the hall. A sinking feeling hit me because I couldn’t take my phone. But as luck would have it, shortly after I greeted everyone, I learned I wasn’t needed until later! It must have been a sign. I hurried back to my office as additional bids reset the two-minute timer.  So I placed another bid, and voila, it was the best and the highest. The reserve wasn’t met, but the seller and I came to an agreement, and the deal was done via Offers.

So, how’s my ownership experience been going? Well, I now own a longhood 911S Targa in a great color, and my 356 is no longer lonely. So far so good!

If you have a Success Story about a car you’ve bought or sold on BaT, please send a few lines and pictures (or a video) to community.content@bringatrailer.com, and we’ll send you a $50 credit to the BaT Gear Store when your story posts to the site.

We love to hear from satisfied BaT buyers and sellers, and a Success Story feature is a great addition to any car’s history when you’re ready to sell.

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