Porsche 912

The vehicle in detail

What is known are 11 Prototype chassis numbers in 1963/1964 with numbers 13330 to 13333 and 12 Prototype chassis numbers in 1965 with numbers 13400 to 13420. These were used for a variety of reasons for development of the 911 and 912 model. Today, 7 of these Porsche’s are still known worldwide. Of which 2 are from the 1965 series. Of these, the 13415, which we now present, is one of them.

13415 starts its life as a prototype 902/912.

Porsche faced criticism with its new 901/911 because of its price of 23,700 DM which was a hefty 7,000 DM higher than the old model, the Porsche 356. The idea soon arose to market a more affordable version with a 4-cylinder engine. It would eventually become the Porsche 912 with a further developed 356 SC engine. A few prototypes were built for this purpose, of which the 13415 is one. After their service, these prototypes were often dismantled or used for crash-testing, for example. A few, however, were sold, often to known people for the factory, including the 13415.  This sale is even listed on the Kardex.

On 25 August 1966, the 13415 was sold to Mr Meyer of Stuttgart. Common was that, often to stationed soldiers, Porsche’s were later sold again and exported to America. Similarly, this must eventually have happened to the 13415.

Thomas Drumond eventually found the 13415 by chance in 2007. Not realising at the time how special this Porsche is. Parked and covered for years in a garden in Tustin, California. Presented with a faded, non-original paint job and fitted with an EU-spec 356 SC engine. Thomas bought the Porsche with his partner Mike Canfield, with whom he runs a restoration and sales business together. At the time with the idea of using it for its parts for one of their ongoing projects.

After they discover how important this Porsche really is, this idea immediately changes. The aim is clearly to start fully restoring this prototype and to do so as correctly as possible. In the coming years, a lot of research will be done. The 13415 itself is also being researched very extensively. Porsche Cars North America is called in to uncover records of the early life of this prototype. It is becoming clear that the 13415 passed its time very well in the beautiful climate of California. Witness also the photos of this 2007 find.

The original matching engine is present complete with Solex 40 PI-4 carburettors. The 901 gearbox is a modified 5-speed from the 911 to a 4-speed version. Further special details include the original 356 BT-6 chassis plate with raised 912 description, aluminium door hinges and window frames as well as 4 rims with date codes of 10-1964. A special detail are the front wings with more “rim and tyre” space, but still with the 4-point front grille attachment. This, combined with the elaborate wheel arches at the rear, indicates pre-production test parts for the later 1968 model year.

Thomas and Mike decide to restore the 912 to its original delivery specification. A restoration carried out to perfection and detail that will take several years. The main goal is to renovate and restore as many original parts as possible. Naturally, the body is finished in its original colour light ivoy with a black artificial leather interior.

Finally, they present the stunning result at the 2014 Porsche Parade Concours where it was awarded a “Silver Level of Achievement Award”. Scoring 297.4 out of 300 points available. Witness there also the presence of Hans-Peter Porsche, who indicated he remembered the 13415 from its time in the factory.

A chance to own a unique and important piece of Porsche history.