*** Interested parties should note, this vehicle was subject to a CAT D insurance write off in 06/1998 ***
Highlights
Desirable Euro Spec 2.0L Flat 4 Engine
Bare metal restoration
Engine & Gearbox rebuild
Pages of paperwork
THE APPEAL
Introduced as a collaboration between Volkswagen and Porsche the 914 was built to be the entry level and most affordable Porsche on offer, with the price sitting just below the 911T. In its seven year run over 118,000 cars were sold before production came to a halt in 1976 making it Porsche's best selling vehicle for that period, with most variants making their way to the United States or mainland Europe.
Born from that joint venture from the German giants this car was the last project that was contractually required to be outsourced to Porsche and initially was designed to be both a car for Volkswagen to sell as well as Porsche. The VW variant never made it, with the entire project being badged as a Porsche 914.
The stereotypical 70’s wedge design brings added style with a targa roof, pop up headlights and mesh engine cover and while it may not be as recognisable as the curved bodied Porsche’s, the charm is just as equal. This german registered euro spec 914 comes with the most desirable 2.0L flat 4 engine, plus the LE factory option, bringing additional styling and equipment.
First sold in Stuttgart, Germany in 1974, this 914 was imported to the United Kingdom in 1985 and has been here ever since. Purchased as a project by the current owner in 2012 the vehicle has been gradually restored over the last decade with many invoices of its large document file being for parts and specialist works required to get this wonderful car to its current condition.
Invoices from air cool engine specialists for the engine and gearbox rebuild are present, alongside a certificate of authenticity and manufacture owners manual. The body restoration documents are unfortunately unavailable but verbal confirmation from the owner combined with the condition of the car will satisfy most.
Porsche interiors always seem to be unequivocally superb and on the 914 it’s business as normal. Black is the theme, with plastic and mesh styling throughout the dash and door cards, blending into the black leather centre console and partial leather seats perfectly. The addition of red needles to the gauges brings a subtle race feel, especially with the added vertical dials on the centre console.
Condition, everything looks fantastic, there’s very little sign of wear anywhere and only the smallest signs of use. The carpets look brand new and the seats are free from creases and cracking, they feel great too, offering a comfortable and low driving position, just as it should on any Porsche.
The seventies was the era of the wedge design. This styling became familiar for decades, with many manufacturers introducing new and refreshed models with the dominant sharp lines, pointy front and boxy rear. Porsche were no different, with many models throughout this era replicating the fashionable look, the first being the 914.
The sharp lines are recurrent on this car but the slightest incorporation of curves brings an individual attraction, for example the boxy front is framed by enormous indicator lights which sit prominently on the front of the wing as it curves ever so slightly towards the bumper. Large lights on front wings is very much a Porsche thing and in our opinion the blend of wedge and the usual Porsche elements is a thing of beauty.
Condition wise, it's in really good order. The Alaska Blue is a sublime colour and sparkles proudly in the sunshine, a full bare metal restoration circa 2017/2018 was carried out with the few areas of rust cut out, repaired and treated to ensure the longevity of the car. The additional chrome styling on the bumpers have been replaced, as well as other items of brightwork and the fibreglass targa roof looks brand new.
There are a couple blemishes present, most very difficult to photograph due to their minor scale. A small dent on the rear boot is present and tiny pin pricks on the front chrome bumper, truthfully not noticeable to the average eye. The driver's side skirt and rear light have some small scratches too. The wheels are fuchs style and all immaculate wrapped in good rubber. Overall, a unique and underrated car in great order.
On arrival the car was driven to a nearby location for the photographer and started easily multiple times as it was manuverd. The 2.0L ran smoothly without any dramatics or concerns, no double testament to the comprehensive work carried out. The air cooled flat-4 has a recognisable rumble and certainly adds to the vehicle's allure.
The engine alongside the 5 speed gearbox was rebuilt by air cooled specialists Greatworth Classics/VW Camper Co in 2015 and is reported to run without drama. The VW engine is a pretty familiar unit, with millions of vehicles from 1936 - 2006 fitted with this flat-4 from the factory the engine is fuel injected, this 914 has had the much more reliable Twin Weber Carburetors fitted, plus stainless steel brake pipes and heat exchanges. In addition, the wheels have been converted to a 5 bolt setup plus some LED bulbs have been fitted where appropriate..
It’s clear and not just the invoices that thousands of pounds and hundreds of hours have been spent in the quest to turn this rare euro spec 914 into an enjoyable and drivable classic.
A rare European 2.0L 914 in great condition that has been passionately restored to its original glory. The overall super condition combined with the desirable 2.0L european engine make this 914 one to go for.
The VW-Porsche vehicle is becoming an increasingly sought after model thanks to its history and prices will no doubt increase as the years roll on.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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1974 Porsche 914 (LHD)
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