The 914 was sold by both companies in two different configurations. The standard 914 offered with Volkswagen’s 80 horsepower flat-four-engine and the 914/6 powered by 911T’s 2.0-liter, 110 horsepower flat-six. The additional horsepower and torque of the flat-six earned the 914 a reputation as a highly capable sports car with outstanding handling, a point bolstered by the Works-prepared GT versions campaigned at Le Mans, Daytona, Sebring, and the Nürburgring. Nevertheless, some dismissed it as not being a “real” Porsche due to the joint collaboration between Volkswagen and Porsche. The 914/6’s price tag also rivaled that of the standard 911, leading to just 3,300 models sold across the span of its three-year production run.
Despite visually being a radical departure from the 911, its form is decidedly Porsche. Its low slung body and mid-engine layout draws inspiration from one of the greatest Porsche models ever produced- the 550 Spyder. Today, the 914/6 has become a desirable and highly celebrated classic Porsche model.
When we first learned of this 914-6 nearly a decade ago it was in part of a collection in Tennessee and in its original configuration. When we purchased it, it had been already been upgraded to be somewhat of an OEM hot-rod. The original 2.0-liter engine ran and drove fine, but the previous owner just happened to have a 2.7-liter engine on hand that had just received over $7,000 worth of work in machining, bearings, chain tensioner update, valves, springs, etc. Rather than leave the engine unused, he removed the original engine and installed the 2.7-liter in its place. He proceeded to the suspension and replaced the springs, shocks, tie-rods, and brakes. Finally, the exterior was repainted in the classic shade of Light Ivory.
This hot-rod 914/6 remains in excellent condition both inside and out. The non-metallic paintwork and chrome trim shines brightly and is highlighted by polished Fuchs wheels. Inside, the black leatherette seating and black carpets show minimal wear. Just beyond the leather-trimmed Momo Prototipo steering wheel, a 150 mph speedometer hints at a higher top speed than previously possible with its original engine. The original 2.0-liter long block is included with the 914 if its new owner wishes to return it to its original specifications. No matter what, this 914/6s new owner will be guaranteed to have a blast behind the wheel of one of Porsche’s most favored mid-engined models.