This 1975 Porsche 914 2.0 is a genuine survivor. As such, it isn’t perfect. However, it is a fairly tidy classic that has spent its life in a favorable climate that has protected it from potential rust issues. It is a turnkey proposition that could provide its next owner with hours of summer motoring pleasure. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P. for spotting the Porsche listed here on Craigslist in Pacoima, Los Angeles, California. The seller set their price at $29,995, and there is no indication that they will negotiate on that figure.
Developed as a joint venture between Porsche and Volkswagen, the former marque released the 914 as an affordable model in 1969. People immediately noticed Porsche’s latest offering, featuring styling that still polarizes opinions five decades after the last car left the line. This 1975 example is the 2.0 variant, featuring the larger and more powerful of the two available four-cylinder engines. The seller describes it as unrestored, and scrutinizing their images reveals some paint flaws and scratches. They aren’t severe, and potential buyers may consider spot repairs if they aren’t willing to splash out on a complete repaint. The panels are straight, and life in California has protected it from rust, with the car as solid as the day it rolled off the showroom floor. The trim and glass are in good condition, and this Porsche rolls on its attractive Fuchs wheels.
The 914 broke new ground for Porsche. It had spent its entire life developing and producing rear-engine sports cars, but the latest offering featured a mid-mounted architecture for better weight distribution. Buyers could choose from four different engines during the 914’s production life, with this car featuring an air-cooled, fuel-injected 2.0-liter four. It sends a factory-quoted 84hp and 97 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transaxle, but there is more to the 914 than the modest engine figures suggest. I wouldn’t say the car is as light as a feather, but with a curb weight of around 2,200 lbs, the motor isn’t lumbered with enormous weight to shift. That means that performance is quite sprightly, and the 2.0 will hit a factory-declared 112mph. The seller states that this 914 is in excellent mechanical condition and has a genuine 64,000 miles showing on its odometer. There are no fluid leaks, and the engine doesn’t smoke or make odd noises. Therefore, potential buyers can consider this Porsche a turnkey proposition.
This Porsche’s interior appearance is consistent with a survivor-grade vehicle with five decades of active service under its belt. The carpet is slightly worn and faded, and there are a couple of developing holes in the driver’s seat. The damage isn’t significant, and a competent upholsterer may be able to apply blind patches if the new owner doesn’t wish to spend almost $800 on a set of replacement covers. However, with the rest of the interior presenting nicely and the dash crack-free, investing in new seatcovers and around $500 on a carpet set would make this interior “pop.”
Although it isn’t perfect, this 1975 Porsche 914 2.0 has a few critical positive attributes. It presents relatively well, though a light cosmetic refresh or some minor paint touch-ups would be fairly straightforward if the buyer wishes to improve its overall appearance. The underside shots confirm its rust-free status, and with no mechanical issues, it is ready to hit the road with a new owner behind the wheel. The only question mark is the odometer reading, because such claims are less impressive without supporting documentation. If such verification exists, this little Porsche could be a winner.
Very nice and (sort of) in my neighborhood. Looks sharp in white with the “Porsche” door tapes. Interior is very nice, as Adam says. Love the “gas burner” wheels. Possibly most important, model year 1975. Last year of smog exempt in the Golden State. Likely has changed hands a few times (would have blue plate if original), but not abused, that’s for sure. Finally, Adam, “everything is negotiable”. I like it.
With the 2.0 this is a winner. These are making a comeback for sure. Just had one in orange on this platform a few weeks back on the East Coast that went for solid money and BAT is loaded with them these days showing that indeed people see the “value” in these collector cars – Porsche enthusiasts not so much!
I personally prefer the “Lime Green” color but this will do “if” mileage verification could be provided. Solid find and excellent write up!