INTRODUCTION

The 1974 Porsche 914 is a two-seat, mid-engined sports car featuring a distinctive targa roof. Co-developed by Porsche and Volkswagen, it offered balanced handling, lightweight construction, and affordability—earning a loyal following despite initial poor reception 

HISTORY & ORIGINS

Born from a joint VW–Porsche initiative to replace both the VW Karmann Ghia and Porsche 912, the 914 debuted in 1969. By 1974, over 17,000 units were produced that year, featuring improved 1.8 L and 2.0 L flat‑four engines.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

1.8‑Liter Flat‑4

• 1,795 cc, 5‑speed manual

• 76 hp @ 4,800 rpm; 100 lb‑ft torque @ 3,400 rpm 

• 0–60 mph in ~12.6 s; top speed ~105 mph 

2.0‑Liter Flat‑4 (introduced 1973)

• 1,971 cc, 95 hp @ 4,900 rpm; 116 lb‑ft torque @ 3,500 rpm 

• Slightly quicker performance

A limited number of 914/6 sported a 2.0 L flat‑six, but these were from 1970–72 and not offered in 1974 

DESIGN & FEATURES

• Exterior: Mid-engine layout, targa removable roof, pop-up headlights, Karmann-built fiberglass-reinforced body panels, and integrated bumpers 

• Interior: Two-seater cockpit, Porsche-style steering wheel, vinyl bucket seats, front and rear trunks for modest cargo 

Dimensions: 156.9″ L × 65″ W × 48.4″ H; wheelbase 96.5″; curb weight 2,072–2,194 lb depending on engine.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

• 914/4: Base model with 1.7 L, 1.8 L, or 2.0 L flat-fours.

• 914/6: Earlier variant with 2.0 L flat-six, phased out by 1974 .

• Limited Editions: Special 914 LE editions available in rare colors like “Creamsicle”.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

• Four‑wheel independent suspension (torsion front, trailing arm rear)

• Disc brakes all-around

• Targa roll-over bar

• No ABS, airbags, or electronic aids; simple and mechanical.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

• 1.8 L: ~27 mpg U.S. (8.6 L/100 km)

• 2.0 L: Slightly lower, but still efficient for a mid‑‘70s sports car.

• Light weight (~2,100 lb) helped achieve respectable fuel economy.

MARKET COMPARISON

Compared to contemporaries like the Datsun 240Z and MGB GT, the 914 offered superior mid-engine handling and Porsche brakes—but suffered from modest power and a quirky image . It was more affordable than the 911, making it accessible to enthusiasts .

PRICING

• Original MSRP (1974): approx. $5,450–$6,055 

• Collector market (2025):

  • Average 914/4: ~$20,000–$30,000 

  • Restored or rare LE models: $40,000–$60,000+ (e.g., Phoenix Red model sold ~15K at BaT) .

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Gained cult status and a devoted fan base for its enthusiast driving experience 

• Celebrated for its handling balance and lightweight mid-engine layout.

• 914/6 models remain highly valued due to scarcity and performance pedigree