1969 was the launch year for the Porsche 914, priced as a replacement for
the 912. A choice was available of either 1.7 fuel injected flat 4 (914/4) or
a 2.0 litre flat six engines (914/6), outputting 80bhp and 110bhp respectively.
Additional characteristics unique to the sixes included: larger 911 brakes and
five-bolt wheel hubs; a larger brake master cylinder; front suspension transplanted
directly from the 911 model line; gauges calibrated to the higher performance
six cylinder engine; a 911 based steering column; dual Weber carburetors; electric
windshield washer; different gear ratios in the transmission, and an assortment
of smaller details.
In 1970 a privately entered 914/6GT won its class at Le Mans and finished
4th overall. The 914/6GT became the competition version of the six cylinder model.
1971 saw the introduction of Optional Pedrini Light alloy wheels for the 914/4.
The 914/6 ceased production but a new 2.0 litre 4 cylinder 914 was introduced
to replace it, known as the 914S in the USA. Fuchs and Mahle light-alloy wheels
became available as an option for the 914/4. Centre consol was available on the
2.0 models. Rubber over-riders were fitted to US spec cars.
The 1.7 914/4 engine was enlarged to 1.8 litres and fitted with bosch L- jetronic
injection, power produced was only 76bhp. But european models fitted duel weber
cards and horsepower went up to 85bhp. Vinyl trim on roof pillars previously an
option became standard on the entire range. A limited edition model was available
in the USA which was a 2.0 litre model with spoilers and different paint. In 1975
Impact front and rear bumpers were fitted on US spec models and new interior trim
became available. 1976 saw production of the 914 come to an end.
914 SPOTTER'S GUIDE
Everything you need to know about the Porsche 914:
