1972 Porsche 914

In a world in which the 914 model is finally gaining recognition and long-overdue popularity—think about this: a 914/6 with significant racing history just sold for more than $1 Million in Arizona, this Willow Green 1972 Porsche 914 1.7 requires a double-take. The problem is one of perception. Porsche produced more than 115,000 of these four-cylinder versions over its seven-year lifetime from 1970 through 1976. With so many out there, it has proven incredibly hard to find a really great example.

This particular 914 is truly a special Porsche due to its original condition: It is still wearing its original paint from the factory. This little jewel is in an overall unmolested condition. The paint is in incredible shape and it shows well, and when you open the doors you’re entering a time capsule.

In the decades since 1972, this car has been fully mechanically sorted and as you drive away you feel the crisp Typ 914 / 11 five-speed transmission engaging each gear and the 1,679-cubic centimeter displacement Typ W opposed four delivering its welcomed exhaust note. With 80 horsepower at 4,900 rpm, set in the middle of a 1,984-pound two-seater, its low seating position and mid-engine placement make the 914 such a drivable, nimbly balanced automobile in a comfortable fashion.

It’s important to remember that Porsche’s chief modeler Heinrich Klie, who designed the Typ 914, was assigned to come up with something that definitely did not resemble a Porsche. It was to be a Volkswagen; but despite his provocative shape, Klie and the Weissach engineers created a car that was a Porsche under its efficiently shaped skin, with front and rear independent suspension and front and rear disc brakes.

The 914s are the subject of many naysayers over the years. I would challenge all of them and first ask: “Have you ever driven a 914?” Your answer may be yes, and most likely you’ll come back with such a credible rebuttal as, “It’s not a 911”. This is true but we’re not here to judge different opinions; we are Porsche enthusiasts first, and the 914s were a huge success for A.G starting in 1969. These 1.7 liters 914 roadsters provide a ton of driver feedback, and they prove with every mile that driving enjoyment is possible below 100 horsepower. These cars are simply a blast.