Overview

Porsche developed the 914 in conjunction with Volkswagen as an entry-level car to replace the 911-based 912.

The 914 was powered by a four-cylinder Volkswagen-designed engine that was mid-mounted to give an equal front/rear weight distribution for optimum handling. It was built in a separate factory by the coachbuilder Karmann and had distinctive, angular lines, quite unlike any other Porsche. The Targa roof could be removed and stored in the luggage compartment to give open-top motoring.

While not a powerful car, the 912 handled extremely well, thanks to its mid-engine layout and well-thought-out, fully independent suspension set-up. However, it suffered throughout its life because of the Volkswagen connection, non-US cars even had a “VW” badge on the back.

The 914 was replaced, in 1976, by the all-new, front-engined 924.

How to spot

• VW badge on rear (except US models)
• Mid-mounted, air-cooled flat-four

Specification

Capacity: 1679cc

Compression ratio: 8.2:1

Maximum Power: 80bhp

Maximum Torque: 135Nm

Brakes: Front: 280mm discs; rear: 282mm discs

Suspension: Front: MacPherson struts with telescopic dampers and torsion bar springs; rear: trailing wishbones with telescopic dampers and coil springs. Front and rear antiroll bars

Wheels & Tyres: Front: 15×4.5J with 165VR tyres. Rear: 15×4.5J with 165VR tyres

Length: 4050mm

Width: 1650mm

Weight: >970kg

Did you know?

The 914 was replaced in 1976 by the all-new, front-engined 924.