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The Gaudin Classic Porsche Restoration Challenge winner, a meticulously preserved 1986 Porsche 911 Carrera Targa (M491 Turbo-Look with M470 spoiler delete), has hit the market on Bring a Trailer, giving enthusiasts a rare chance to own an award-winning piece of Porsche history right here in Las Vegas.

This one-of-seven 1986 M491 Targa (a rare Turbo-Look widebody configuration without the rear spoiler) was discovered locally in a warehouse, having been converted to a cabriolet years earlier—a common modification at the time that saw many owners hack off the signature Targa bar. Gaudin Porsche’s expert team, led by Steve Teal, uncovered its true origins through research with the M491 registry and Porsche Classic. They undertook a sympathetic preservation-focused restoration: sourcing a donor Targa bar section, precisely welding it back using factory measurements and reinforcements, performing extensive paint correction (retaining most of the original paint), refreshing the interior without full replacement, rebuilding the engine (including a top-end overhaul), and addressing mechanicals to make it reliable and driveable again.

The effort paid off spectacularly. The car claimed first place in the Preservation category at the regional Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge during Monterey Car Week 2024 (Werks Reunion), then advanced to nationals—where it won its class at the Petersen Museum in Los Angeles, judged by PCA and Porsche Classic executives. It was even displayed as Porsche Classic’s featured car at Luftgekühlt, with video highlights playing alongside.

Now listed on Bring a Trailer by Gaudin Classic, this 93,000-mile survivor stands out for its rarity (one of just seven produced in 1986 in this spec, with even fewer likely surviving), award pedigree, dealer-backed documentation, and the fact that it’s a U.S.-titled, ready-to-enjoy classic rather than a trailer queen. It features desirable options like sport seats, limited-slip differential, short shifter, and Fuchs wheels.

Porsche purists know how tough it is to find an authentic, preserved 1980s Targa—especially one reversed from a cab conversion with such fidelity to factory specs. This car isn’t just restored; it’s a testament to preservation philosophy: honoring original materials and history while making it a joy to drive.

For Las Vegas PCA members, this is a hometown story worth watching (or bidding on). Auctions like this highlight why classic Porsches remain a smart passion—rarity, craftsmanship, and driving purity that hold value in any market. Check the current listing on Bring a Trailer for photos, history, and bidding details. Congratulations to the Gaudin Classic team on the win and for sharing this gem with the community!