Book Porsche 914 An Enthusiast’s Guide - Richard Gooding

Title Porsche 914 - An Enthusiast’s Guide

Author Richard Gooding

Language english

160 sheets

218 color photos

Year 2016

Dimensions 19 × 25 cm

ISBN 978-1-78500-151-2

Summary:

The 914 was born into consistently confusing and troubled times at Porsche and Volkswagen. The idea of a non-911 Porsche in the late 1960s horrified many. A Porsche with an engine that wasn't in the back was simply unthinkable. Richard Gooding examines the story of a car of mixed parentage, which against the odds became a success in its relatively short, six-and-a half year lifespan. Around 119,000 cars were sold from 1969 to 1975, outselling contemporary rivals such as the Opel GT, and meaning it was the first mid-engined car to achieve six-digit sales.

As a present-day classic, although challenging to some, low-slung looks and bright colours make the 1970s 914 period-perfect. Combined with near-ideal weight distribution and a low centre of gravity, its mid-engine layout means the 914 can achieve cornering G-forces comparable to the contemporary 911. The 914 was seen as a car that could inject a shot of glamour into VW's slightly worthy and dependable range of air-cooled cars.

Contents:

1. Introduction : from unloved oddity to cult classic

2. Family ties

3. A troubled birth and a problem child

4. The 914 - all models and derivatives

5. The 914 in motor sport

6. Under the influence - models after the 914

7. Buying and owning a 914