1966 Porsche 912

SWB Coupe Coupe

4 - Cyl.

Manual

455058

Clear

Gasoline

Vintage Rennsport: 1966 Porsche 912 SWB Coupe! The "Porsche for the future," introduced as the 901 at the Frankfurt International Auto Show in September of 1963, was light years ahead of it predecessor, the 356, 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. Traditionalists were up in arms; after all those years, what was suddenly wrong with the Porsche 356? Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Dr. Porsche listened, and answered with a variant offering the best of both worlds: a 911, powered by the tried-and-true 1600cc pushrod motor borrowed from the 356SC, ready to serve the Porsche enthusiast who preferred a less complex, easier to work on, lightweight sports car. Tipping the scales at only 2,135 lbs, it received the code name 912. Today's aficionados have discovered the austere 912 as a fantastic car to own and drive. After all, any Porsche is fast enough to collect speeding tickets, but, with the 912's cost of maintenance being only a fraction of a 911's, it's a win-win situation. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) The 1966 Porsche 912 Coupe presented here, VIN *455058* is a life-long California car. Its most recent caretaker owns a Central Coast paint emporium; he purchased the 912 as a rust free driver and subsequently, enthusiastically, embarked on a mission to thoroughly refurbish the car, inside and out. Let's have a closer look! Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Starting our inspection with the luggage compartment, the first impression is thoroughly positive. We spot immaculate, gray felt Josef Beuys Memorial matting and a working trunk light. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Underneath, there's the matching spare, the Bakelite battery cover, and a completely undamaged "nose" section. Nice! Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) 912's arrow-straight coachwork features excellent hood and door gaps. It has been professionally refinished in Porsche's Sicherheitsfarbe ("Safety Color") Viper Green, strikingly smooth and glossy. There is no damage--be it caused by corrosion or accident--to be found, and there are no bubbles, scratches, dings, dents, chips, or any kind of imperfectios that would cause a fussy collector sleepless nights. In keeping with the mild outlaw theme, bumper and side trim was omitted, just like the insignia on the engine lid. And yes, this '66 features the all-important "four Fs" -- it boasts of fog lights, FUCHS wheels, a five-gauge dash, and the optional five-speed transmission. The five FUCHS light alloy rims have been finished to match the car's exterior. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) The cockpit, another highlight, looks delightfully stock and original, apart from a modern stereo and the period wooden shift knob. Even the leather-covered steering wheel is original Porsche issue. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) There are no rips or tears, and there is no sun damage diminishing the beauty of the black dashtop upholstery. Brushed alloy trim on fascia is in prime condition as well. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Five bold, classic Porsche gauges in excellent cosmetic condition--and they all work, too, even the clock! Note tach's 6,000rpm redline. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Low-back front bucket seats are freshly upholstered in black leatherette, look perfect. A rare option are the original lap belts, which feature the Porsche crest on their chrome buckles. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Immaculate, original, perforated headliner, original sun visors. Working dome lights. Lots of new weatherstripping. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Rear seats allow this Porsche to serve as an occasional family car. Safety belts for the young ones were added. Fold the seat backs forward individually, and you gain extra luggage space. 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 go, let's have a good look at engine and undercarriage. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Sparkling clean engine bay houses Porsche's famous 1600cc opposed four, producing 95 happy and healthy horses. This matching numbers motor # *745010* (case # 616/36) has just been rebuilt and was fitted with a pair of new WEBER 40-IDF carburetors. There are no ill manners, such as smoking or (oil) drinking to report. There are no leaks, either, always a good sign. She runs as good as she looks! To call the undercarriage "well preserved" would be an understatement. In a sea of rusty and repaired early 912 pans, this prime example of clean, dry, rust free, unmolested floors and longitudinals stands out like a shining beacon. 45 years old, this short wheel base, early 912 has never needed rust repair and is of reference quality! Note dry bottoms of engine and transmission, KONI shock absorbers, and stock exhaust system. Click on the image to the left for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Click on any of the above images for a full-size view Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Thursday, February 3, was just another lovely "winter" day here in our Southern California paradise, and we couldn't wait to embark on our test drive and photo session. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) This fine SWB 912 starts, runs, and drives excellently. Its smooth-shifting, optional Type 901 5-speed tranny really is a joy to use. The '66 truly comes alive above 3,800 rpm, feeling crisp and responsive, despite being four-and-a-half decades old. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) On the freeway, 4,000rpm equal about 70mph; during a short high speed run at 95-100mph, the Porsche hummed along happily and safely, without breaking a sweat. The 4-wheel disc brakes are fully up to their task. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Returning home, we are believers again. The Porsche 912 is the legitimate successor of the legendary Model 356. Propelled by the heart of the most powerful pushrod bathtub, the 356SC, it offers all the comfort, prestige, and progressive engineering the Professor and his team bestowed upon the original 901/911/912. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Some old sports cars, among them Ferraris and Porsches, seem to have a soul, a character of their own. Piloting one can be addictive: true sports car enthusiasts love to have one of Enzo's or Ferry's children--especially those born in the Fifties or Sixties--in their stable. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Values of 1960s Porsche have been skyrocketing lately, deservedly so, since they are utterly reliable, very collectible sports cars. Despite economic challenges, prices for fine 912s have doubled and tripled during the past few years and continue to trend upwards, making this very attractive, fully sorted, rust free California 912 an excellent investment, one that can be enjoyed instantly. 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. License plates shown for photographic purposes only. 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 © 1999-2011 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. 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