The Porsche 914 has long divided opinion over whether it’s a “real” Porsche, especially since many collectors own 911s and 356s but avoid the 914. Confusion stems from Europe, where four-cylinder 914s were sold as Volkswagens, while in the U.S. both versions were badged as Porsches.
The car traces back to the 1960s, when Porsche needed a 912 replacement and VW wanted a successor to the Karmann Ghia. They planned a lightweight, mid-engine sports car in two forms: a four-cylinder sold by VW and a six-cylinder 914/6 sold by Porsche. After a change in VW leadership, development costs rose, making the 914/6 nearly as expensive as a 911T. Only about 3,300 were built in three years. The four-cylinder was far more successful, with roughly 118,000 produced.
All 914s were air-cooled. The four-cylinder engines ranged up to 2.0 liters and 101 hp. Though slower than the six, the four-cylinder car was lighter and well balanced. Despite the VW connection, the design work was effectively done by Porsche, using a 911-style suspension layout.
Check out the video from Number 27 on YouTube for a closer look at whether the Porsche 914/4 really deserves its bad reputation and how it actually drives on the road.
