Porsche’s long-standing relationship with Volkswagen was reinforced in 1969 with the debut of the 914, a Porsche-developed, mid-engine Targa sports car built by Karmann in Osnabrück. Volkswagen needed a successor to the ageing Karmann-Ghia, while Porsche was seeking an additional, more affordable model to expand its range.
Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the 914/4 was fitted with Volkswagen’s 1.7-litre air-cooled four-cylinder from the 411, while the 914/6 used Porsche’s 2.0-litre flat-six from the 911T. Both versions featured fully independent suspension combining Porsche and VW components, along with four-wheel disc brakes and a five-speed manual transmission.
The 914 earned praise for its balanced handling, though the four-cylinder cars were often criticized for modest performance. That criticism did not apply to the 914/6, but its higher cost limited sales and production ended early. In 1973, it was effectively replaced by the 914 2.0, a four-cylinder model with increased displacement, forged alloy wheels, front and rear anti-roll bars, and a more refined interior with extra gauges.
In a review from The Collector Car Guru, a 1972 Porsche 914 1.7 is examined in detail, covering its background, driving experience, and idiosyncrasies. The video highlights the car’s distinctive design, engine choices, and handling strengths, while revisiting the long-running argument over whether the 914 deserves full recognition as a “real” Porsche.
Source: The Collector Car Guru
