This beautiful 1968 Porsche 912 is one of the more obscure air-cooled models that has been a collectible for some time, known as the “soft window” variety of targa top examples. The 912 was purchased new in Europe by a Hollywood personality who shipped it home to Beverly Hills. It’s been with the second owner since 1978, only recently coming up for sale. The condition remains impressive, and the seller claims it comes with records dating back to the 1970s. Find it here on eBay with bids to $19K and the reserve unmet.
The seller reports that the targa top itself is original, but that the plastic rear window has been replaced. This is not surprising as it’s essentially like any other convertible top window, and can be scratched or become cloudy over time. No word on whether the paint is original, but it looks very consistent going down the sides. Chrome looks tidy as well, as do the tasty Fuchs wheels. One of the engine cover slats is bent, and is the only detail I spot that mars the exterior appearance.
The interior is simply a bone-stock cabin that looks to have held up well. It’s not overly detailed or a museum-quality cabin, but it reflects what I’d call gentle, consistent use. The radio has been replaced with an aftermarket unit, but impressively, the dash has no cracks despite the 912 residing in a sun-intense environment. The seller notes that the books, tool kit, manuals, extra keys, and jack all remain with the 912, a testament to its two owners that kept those bits with the car.
The engine bay is clean but not overly detailed. The 912 is said to run well, but no details on its maintenance history are provided. Presumably, with this kind of cosmetic condition and long-term ownership, its two owners made ongoing maintenance a priority. The 912 by itself has been rising in value as more enthusiasts get priced out of the 911 market, and the soft window targa top only makes this one more desirable in the eyes of Porsche buyers. What do you suppose it will sell for?
Looks to be a pretty nice car that will obviously bring big bucks. But silly seller Sam; if you’re gonna say it was originally owned by a Hollywood star-for Pete’s sake-tell us who. I know you want us to think it was someone the likes of Steve McQueen or Sean Connery but that’s probably not even close. Hammy Sammy, you don’t look cool. You just look like a goof when you say a “Hollywood star,” without naming him.
Add $10,100 to the current bid($29,100).
This car was bought brand new in Italy by the Hollywood personality in 1968. He kept it in his Italian home for 2 years then brought it to his Beverly Hills home in 1970. Then in 1978 he sold it to the second owner which was a lady from Woodland Hills California.
Think about this. If the “star’s” name was mentioned, It might bring a higher value. McQueen’s Bullitt car didn’t do too badly.
Spent a year driving one of these. Nice driving cars. No ripping up the pavement here but enough power to get you down the road.
Speedo is not original. It’s a “green gauge”; last year used in a 912 was 1967. 1968 marked the change to the modern white gauges with the modern font; like the tach seen in the same picture. Just saying.
Hollywood star….. – not enough to spring for an 11
In many ways the 912 is a better car than the early 911. Yes it lacks about 30 hp, 90 plus instead of about 120 but weighs nearly 200 lbs less ..and that weight in the 911 is carried at the very rear of the car with the extra 2 cylinders. And this being a soft window makes it very desirable. My wife has a 68 912 couple..it will happing cruise at 85 and get 35 mpg. Just did an effortless , fun 1,500 mile trip in it…Love to have this “softie”..I would probably never put tht back window in!