Porsche 914 2.0 1976, Alemanha

Porsche 914 2.0 1976, Alemanha
Fotografia

Originally launched as a joint venture between Porsche and Volkswagen, the mid-engined 914 offered an inexpensive four-cylinder model for the Porsche lineup in the United States and a low-cost version of its own for Volkswagen in Europe. Porsche laid out a modern Targa-roofed design with large frunk and trunk storage, the latter of which fits the Targa top when not in use. Visually, there is little to differentiate between the 914 and its big brother, the 914/6. The joint agreement had Karmann building the 914 in Osnabrück, while bodies were shipped to Stuttgart, where Porsche would complete the 914/6.

Debuted in 1969, the 914 was initially powered by a 1.7-liter engine, later offering the choice between a 1.8- or 2.0-liter variant. Each of the four-cylinder engines featured Bosch fuel injection. Subtle improvements were made throughout the production run, with the 914 remaining stylistically the same. During its production run, the 914 became Porsche’s best-selling model, overshadowing the famous 911. It would remain in production through 1976, when it was replaced by the front-engined, water-cooled 924.

This Porsche 914 was completed on 7 January 1976. The car left the factory finished in Light Ivory with Yellow Leatherette interior. It was fitted with U.S. equipment and optioned with front and rear stabilizer bars, tinted side glass all around, center armrest console, and seat cushions. The Porsche was shipped to the U.S., landing at the Chicago, Illinois, port of entry. From there, the car was distributed from Volkswagen of America in Deerfield, Illinois, to the selling dealership, Rushmore Volkswagen of Rapid City, South Dakota.

On 20 April 1976, the 914 was purchased by Karen Massena of Gillette, Wyoming, for $7,715. A Motorola Sapphire XXII radio was installed by Rushmore Volkswagen free of charge, with the customer guarantee tag included. At the time, Mrs. Massena was told that this car was the last example available in the region, which is quite possible, as the Porsche was completed in the last month of the final year of 914 production. Keeping with the musical times, Mrs. Massena added a Realistic cassette player in 1977. Even though Mrs. Massena lived in Wyoming, she would regularly make trips back to Rushmore Volkswagen to have her 914 serviced. Period photographs show the car donning a protective bra across the nose during its early years. Mrs. Massena would eventually move to Washington State, where she continued to enjoy her Porsche. Service records, invoices, and select registration documentation throughout the car’s life is included. Mrs. Massena owned the 914 for an impressive four decades.

In 2016, the 914 was acquired by a vendor in Florida who had an appreciation for early, original Porsches. The remarkably well-preserved car was put through a no-expense-spared restoration by marque experts. The engine and transaxle were completely restored utilizing OEM parts with work completed by Naples Classic Car.

Today the car remains very much in the way it left the factory, finished in the correct Light Ivory with a removable black Targa top. It is further equipped with fog lights and dual side-view mirrors. The 914 rides on Continental ProContact TX radial tires, which are mounted on upgraded, period-correct four-bolt Mahle-style wheels. The peppy 2.0-liter engine provides ample power for the small, low-slung sports car. The five-speed manual transaxle adds to the exhilarating driving experience. The car is in stunning condition throughout, including the undercarriage—a testament to a high-quality restoration of an original car.

The Porsche is accompanied by an extensive documentation file going back to 1976 with service records, invoices, and registrations. Additionally, the 914 features its original factory window sticker along with the dealer accessory card, original invoice, owner’s manual and maintenance record book, North American Distributors and Dealers booklet, Passing, Braking and Tire Pamphlet, and Metric Conversion Table. A jack and spare wheel are also included. A Porsche Production Specifications certificate confirms that the 914 retains its original engine. The original gearbox number is not recorded on the certificate, but it is believed to be original.

The 914 has become a sought-after model in the collector market. Sorted examples, such as this, with extensive early documentation are among the most desired. With its instantly recognizable styling, mid-engined layout, and low-slung driving position, those lucky enough to get behind the wheel of a 914 are gifted with the sensation of being in a true Porsche sports car.