1966 Porsche 912

5-Speed! Coupe

4 - Cyl.

Manual

351031

Gasoline

A Real California Survivor: 1966 Porsche 912 SWB Coupé! Without a doubt, the "Porsche for the future," introduced as model 901 at the Frankfurt International Auto Show in September of 1963, was lightyears ahead of the old 356C in terms of sophistication of design. But the 911--as the 901 came to be known--was rather expensive to buy and to maintain, primarily due to its mechanically complex 2-liter overhead cam 6-cylinder engine. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Traditionalists in the Porsche camp weren't impressed. Especially the hefty $6,500.00 price tag gracing the new car--a 50% increase over the 356--had old-school enthusiasts up in arms. They had been happy with the spirited but trustworthy 356SC engine and formally complained to the Professor. His prompt reply came in the guise of the Porsche 912. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) But even the 912 was expensive when new, costing almost a thousand Dollars more than the late 356. About 30,000 912s were built from April 1965 until 1969, when production of the "356D" was halted. Today, any well-preserved, original 912 is a highly sought after collector's item. Here's all the prestige (and fun) of a 911, served up with markedly lower maintenance fees. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) The 1966 Porsche 912 Coupe presented here, VIN *351031*, has been a Calfornia resident since it was sold in San Jose, brand spankin' new, 44 years ago. To this day, it is still registered to its cherished original black-and-yellow California license plates, front and back. Featuring the desirable, early 3-gauge dash layout, it is a special 912 in many ways--let's take a closer look! Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Clean trunk features Josef-Beuys-Memorial felt lining, factory tool kit. Click on any of the above images for a full-size view Date-coded spare sports MICHELIN tire; the vulnerable "nose" section is clean and free of accident damage or rust. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) This 44 year-old beauty features a superb body. Shut lines ("gaps") are perfect, and there is no hint of corrosion to be found anywhere. Testing the coachwork with a magnet in the usual places doesn't reveal any plastic fillers. Note the practical pop out quarter windows, which ensure flow-through ventilation even on the hottest California summer days. All glass is in excellent condition. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Tangerine is an iconic color for a 1960s Porsche; as so many of its brethren, this 912 came green from the factory. We think the eye-catching Tangerine is a vast improvement! Paint is probably a few decades old but has held up very well indeed, with no bubbles, scratches, or dings marring the smooth and glossy surface. Exterior bright trim and weatherstripping has held up exceedingly well. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) A set of expensive, forged FUCHS light alloy wheels was installed; along with 195/65-15 PIRELLI tires, all of which have plenty of rubber left. The iconic FUCHS wheels, optional equipment in 1966, truly complete any 912's sporting look! Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Turning our attention to the cockpit, we are struck by its inherent beauty and simplicity. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) The discreet charm of a down-to-earth Sixties sports car interior featuring everything you need, nothing you don't. We love it! Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Three-gauge pod has that classic 356 look, perhaps a nod to the traditionalists. Fascinating! Everything here works perfectly, that's guaranteed. Factory steering wheel sports a black leather covering. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Immaculate dash top. Updated BLAUPUNKT AM/FM radio. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Fabulously preserved black bucket seats with basketweave inserts. Note old-school lap belts. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Rear seats are best suited for children or vertically challenged adults. Or, fold down the seat backs and create extra luggage space. Carpeting, side panels, upholstery, headliner: they've all remained in a wonderfully preserved condition. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Ready for a test drive? So are we, but before we leave, let's take a good look at engine bay and undercarriage. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Having been owned by a well-known Bay Area Porsche specialist for the past 28 years, nothing has been overlooked in the mechanical department. Spotlessly clean engine bay hosts the original, matching numbers power plant *831441* (case # 616/36) that, according to the car's former owner, has been carefully rebuilt, less than 4,000 miles ago. The elusive rain water tray is still in place. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) A few reliability-enhancing updates include an alternator and a pair of sporty WEBER 40IDF carburetors. The engine runs very, very strong, with no annoying habits--such as oil drinking, smoking, or unusual noises--to report. The 5-speed transmission has been freshened as well and shifts perfectly through all gears. Being a California native, always pampered and garaged, the car has escaped the dreaded rust devil. Undercarriage still shows the original--minimal--factory undercoating. The floor pans are 100% original and rust free. Theres no sign of any spray can artistry or other shenanigans aimed at hiding any kind of boo-boo. It's really as good as it gets, and we vastly prefer such an unmolested, original undercarriage over a "restored" appearance. Note cleanliness of engine and transmission, and the stock exhaust system. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Close-up view of a perfect floor pan. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Monday, September 13, turned out to be a perfect autumn day here in Ventura. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) We fired up the 912--it starts "on the button" and idles smoothly--and headed for your favorite test track. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Driving the 912 brings back memories of the 356SC. Sound and performance are very similar. Of course, the 912 offers vastly improved driver ergonomics and, via its longer wheelbase and lower center of gravity, transmits a feeling of utter safety. Weighing about 250 lbs. less than the early, 130hp 911 and possessing a performance-tuned engine, this 912 compares very favorably--this particular 912 is actually a bit faster than some of the early 911s we've driven! Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) When traveling on the Freeway, you'll understand why the optional and very desirable Porsche Typ 901 5-speed transmission is so highly regarded. Cruising at the 65mph speed limit, the engine happily purrs at a mere 3,500rpm--very relaxed for a mid-sixties four-banger. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Returning home, we can wholeheartedly praise this 912. It is well behaved, fully sorted and just a pleasure to drive. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Prices for healthy 912s have seen a big boost lately, as those of its predecessor, the 356, have moved out of sight for most folks who have to work for their money. More and more enthusiasts come to realize that the 912 is actually one of the most attractive Porsche models to own and enjoy. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Here it is, a most attractive 912. Gems like this one are getting almost impossible to find nowadays, even here in California. Nothing beats the integrity of original sheet metal, enhanced by superbly well-tended mechanicals. One drive in this 5-speed specimen and you, too, will become a 912 convert! You are most welcome and encouraged to view this fine automobile in Ventura, by appointment, during the auction, or have someone inspect it for you. Please, direct all inquiries to bill@californiaclassix.com or call us at (805) 653-5551. TERMS OF THIS SALE By bidding in this auction, you declare that you have read and accept the Terms of this Sale as outlined below. If you have any questions, please ask them before you bid. After the auction has ended, the sale is final. Please, only bid on this car if you are serious about owning it and have the necessary funds readily available! We require payment of the full amount within 7 days of the end of the auction. The car comes with a clear California Certificate of Title. It is smog exempt and sold "as is, where is" with no warranty stated or implied. Mileage stated above is the current odometer reading. You fully understand that you are not bidding on an "option to buy" this vehicle. You bid to own! There are no contingencies. We ship worldwide. For more information about Californiaclassix, please click on the link below: About Auction Presentation, Image Hosting, & Copyright © 1999-2010 by Californiaclassix.com™. All Rights Reserved. Californiaclassix.com™ is a Registered Trademark. In compliance with eBay's Rules and Regulations, no part of this presentation may be reproduced without written permission of the author. E-mail inquiries to the webmaster@californiaclassix.com.