With Porsche hoping to keep a broad market range of models, an entry level series was necessary to keep the showrooms full and sales tallying up in the books! With the help of Volkswagen, and a mid-engine design offering balanced weight distribution and exceptionally nimble handling characteristics, Porsche offered the 914 alongside to phase out the 912 in the 4-cylinder lineup. Not only was it quickly recognized as an inexpensive way to own a Porsche, but it was also soon nicknamed the "Poor Man's Porsche" even among enthusiasts! A reputation for being quick, reliable, loaded with sporty attributes, and offering respectable gas mileage, they continue to be highly sought after for weekend cruising, or slightly modified for weekend racing!
Offered here is a delightful 1972 Porsche 914 1.7 Convertible Targa with only 1 owner nearly its entire life finished in factory code correct Bahia Red (L30E) over new black vinyl interior! Originally powered by the 1.7 Liter horizontal 4-cylinder engine providing a factory rated 79 horsepower and 96 lb. ft. of torque! Options include 5-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel disc brakes, Sapphire XXII AM/FM radio (in-op), heater and defrost, passenger vanity mirror, desired Appearance Group Package (center console with VDO gauges, pile-type carpeting, tinted glass, chrome bumpers, fog lights, vinyl covered roll bar, leather wrapped wheel) and removable Targa roof panel!
Built for only 7 years, these cars are by far the examples to seek out! Add in the fact that 1972 retains the chrome bumpers without the addition of large rear bumper guards seen on later models, it becomes the desired one to park in the garage for most collectors! This superbly solid example showcases a single repaint, new seat covers, all original glass and body panels, refinished wheels, and new tires (Nexen SB-802 165/80R15). Since being acquired we've taken the next step to have this Porsche 914 looking and running great. The later years of this vehicle's life were spent parked, so the engine was showcasing some leaks and oil burn after being exercised under our care. We elected to remove the engine for a comprehensive overhaul to ensure all valve seats, piston rings, and seals were back to satisfactory standards.
Under the guidance of Midwest Air-Cooled & Machine, we elected to have them order on our behalf upgraded AMC 1.8L heads, pistons/rings, jugs, upgraded Osvat exhaust valves, new camshaft, polished crankshaft, new crankshaft bearings, rod bearing, cam bearing set, new forged 215mm flywheel, clutch kit, starter, and a complete engine gasket/seal kit, along with fresh fuel lines & hoses to the injection system. The block and tin shields were all cleaned prior to reinstallation for a very fresh engine presentation. Additionally, we installed new front KYB strut inserts, headlights, replaced the fog light switch, installed new front and rear rubber bumpers, and a shift rod bushing with lever spring guide and lever ball to tighten up the gear selector. It has been tuned and driven over 100 miles under our care to properly break in the fresh engine, and the oil changed again to be ready for its new owner.
Historically, this Porsche 914 was purchased new from Porsche-Audi specialists Lichtsinn Imports in Highland, Indiana by an Illinois resident in September of 1972. This 914 has stayed in the Midwest region moving from Illinois to Kansas, and then to Missouri all with the same, original owner. This Porsche comes with its original window sticker, owner's manual, maintenance booklet, emissions booklet and wiring diagrams, 3 keys, and title copies back to 1974. This eye-catching 914 with 1 owner showing only 73,723 miles will definitely make its next owner very happy! Please feel free to call with additional questions or to schedule an opportunity to see this vehicle in person. Thanks for looking!
