1970 Porsche 914

914/4 -

4 - Cyl.

Manual

4702906192

Clear

Gasoline

Light, Fast, and Fun: 1970 Porsche 914/4! By the mid-1960s, the leadership at Porsche was looking into a replacement for the Porsche 912. A worthy successor would be needed within a few years, preferably an all new sports car, featuring Porsche's patented Targa top and an air-cooled four-cylinder boxer motor. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) The Porsche engineers in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen knew exactly what they had in mind: a mid-engine road rocket with impeccable handling, evoking Porsche's legendary race cars, such as the 550 Spyder, the RSK, or the 904 GTS. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) The 1970 Porsche 914 presented here is one of the cleanest examples we've had the pleasure to own; it certainly is one of the most comprehensively documented 914s we've seen in a long time. It features a highly desirable factory color and is so stunningly preserved that you could drive it to a local show and be awarded a trophy. This 1970 914/4, VIN *4702906192*, one of just 13,312 manufactured during the model year, is a U.S. spec Porsche that has been cared for by enthusiasts for decades. Small alloy tag above data plate is the key i.d. tag, fixed in place by the car's thoughtful first owner. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) A neat three-ring binder, containing 29 chronologially filed records, dating all the way back to 1985, accompanies the Porsche. Here's a quick summary: $7,654.85 was spent during the period up to 2006. At 17,744 miles, the engine was rebuilt. The last owner won the car in 2006 right here on eBay, the ad printout showing a purchase price of $8,150.00. Another $6,532.77was spent since then on parts and labor, including new tires, brakes, fuel pump, and the installation of a rebuilt, very desirable Type 915 five-speed side shift transmission. Current odometer reading: 40,046 miles. Total documented amount: a whopping $22,337.62! The original owner's manual accompanies the car, as well as numerous repair and radio manuals. Let's now inspect this exceptional 914 in great detail, starting with the front trunk. Click on any of the above images for a full-size view Yes, that's right, being a mid-engine car, this Porsche has two luggage compartments: one in the front, and one in the back. The front trunk is surprisingly spacious. There is no rust or accident damage to be found anywhere. Besides the literature, various new and used spares are included. Click on any of the above images for a full-size view Undercarriage looks clean and dry. There are no corrosion worries. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Turning our attention to the Porsche's brilliant exterior, we are pleased to find excellent panel fit and tight hood and door gaps. There are no scratches, dents, or any other major flaws that could spoil the perfect picture. Click on any of the above images for a full-size view Original, black Targa top presents itself to be in pristine condition. This lightweight part, made from fiberglass, can be removed within seconds, anytime a topless experience is desired. It stores inside the rear trunk, leaving plenty of space for goodies underneath. By the way, 914's roadster body features an integrated roll bar, right from the factory. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) The car's Canary Yellow paint (factory code #L11D), one of Porsche's famous Sicherheitsfarben ("safety colors"), is smooth and very glossy. We just love those period Porsche colors! All the brightwork, glass, and weatherstripping is in good to very good condition. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) 914 comes with a set of flawless, Minilite-style, polished light alloy wheels. A set of high-performance FALKEN ZE-512 radials of the size 195/55VR15 was installed, less than 5,000 miles ago. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Minimalist 914 interior is another classic Porsche design impossible to be improved upon. There's plenty of space (the car was actually advertised as a three-seater), and even big and tall folks will find a comfortable driving position. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Porsche's all-business dash evokes nostalgic feelings, with its dominant, white-on-black 911-style gauges housed right in front of the driver. A leather-covered MOMO sport wheel has been installed (original steering column is included), as well as dash cap that's free of hairline cracks. Door panels and door pockets are in fantastic shape. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) The correct sport seats with integrated head restraints feature their well-preserved, factory Rehbraun (doeskin) leatherette upholstery with basketweave inserts, which remain in virtually perfect condition. Note original 3-point seat belts. Click on any of the above images for a full-size view A few additional details, left to right: close-up of upholstery; genuine Coco mats over nice original carpeting; a center console featuring a voltmeter, analog clock, and temperature gauge (part of the "Appearance Group") has been installed. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Let's move on to the back, to the "other" trunk, shall we? Click on any of the above images for a full-size view The good news continue here; there's none of the common rust that seems to attack the rearmost part of the trunk floor on most 914s, the gray felt carpeting is still in place, the plastic clips to secure the top panel are intact. It's a babied car! So, where's the Motor? Click on any of the above images for a full-size view Being a mid-engine car, the flat-four power plant nestles between the passenger compartment and the rear trunk, in front of the rear axle. According to the owner's manual, "this configuration offers the basic requirements for optimal road ability." Well done, Porsche engineers! This particular engine, originally a 1.7-liter unit of 80hp, has benefitted tremendously from the installation of 1.9-liter cylinders and pistons during the rebuild. It also received a set of WEBER 40IDF carburettors, and HELLO! we now have a lively performer with about 100 horses on tap. Combined with Porsche's own 5-speed side shift trans, this really is the best of all worlds, as the '70 model is considered the lightest of all 914s. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Wednesday, November 8, turned out to be another warm and sunny autumn day in Southern California, perfectly suitable for removing the Targa top and heading for the hills. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Piloting the little Porsche is a delight! 914's seating position is low, like that of an Alpine A110, Mini Cooper, or racing monoposto. With rack-and-pinion steering, 4-wheel disc brakes, a suspension that includes rear triangulated control arms and torsion bars up front, the car handles, steers, and stops faultlessly. Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) It's the perfect synthesis to experience twisty backcountry roads and, as an extra treat, the engine's sound is absolutely heavenly! Despite all its sporting prowess, the 914 is thriftier than virtually all "modern" sports cars: on a recent 800-mile road trip, we were able to average an astonishing 38mpg at a steady 75-80mph! Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Chided during its seven-year production span as a junior Porsche, the 914 is finally being recognized as a very collectible model; it's still the most affordable air-cooled Porsche one can buy, especially in regard to its excellent gas mileage. This particularly nice example, with its sensible upgrades to engine, transmission, and interior, will satisfy the most demanding pilot. Heck, this car weighs hundreds of pounds less than the 110-hp Porsche 914-six of the same vintage - it'll outperfom its bigger brother any day, while being an absolute gas miser! Click on the above image for an XXL-sized view (a separate browser window will open) Here's a truly unique, mid-engined sports car that is as enjoyable today as it was four decades ago. This one features one of the most desirable factory colors, has never suffered from any kind of neglect, runs and drives with the best of 'em, and, perhaps most importantly, can boast of a well-documented provenance. Please, bid accordingly, as you might not be able to unearth another early chrome-bumpered 914 like it anytime soon! 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, perform your due diligence before you bid. Please, note that this car is currently advertised on our Web site and on display in our Showroom. We reserve the right to accept a satisfactory offer and close this auction at any time. Feel free to contact us via e-mail at 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 a $1,000 deposit to be paid via PayPal within 24 hours of the end of the auction and the balance to be paid via bank wire transfer (or in cash) within 5 business days, unless other arrangements have been agreed upon during the auction. The car comes with a clear Wisconsin 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 plate 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. E-mail inquiries to the webmaster@californiaclassix.com.