In 1969, Porsche’s enduring historical connection with Volkswagen was reaffirmed through the introduction of the VW-Porsche 914, a striking mid-engined sports car designed by Porsche and destined to be assembled by Karmann of Osnabruck. This collaborative endeavor arose from the needs of both companies at the time: Volkswagen sought a replacement for its aging Karmann-Ghia, while Porsche was eager to diversify its lineup. The debut of the 914/4, initially showcased at the Frankfurt Auto Show, saw it equipped with a 1,679cc, four-cylinder, air-cooled engine borrowed from the Volkswagen 411. Meanwhile, the 914/6 boasted the robust 2.0-liter six-cylinder engine from the Porsche 911T, installed at the Zuffenhausen factory where the 914/6 was meticulously crafted.
Both iterations of the 914 featured independent suspension, a blend of components from the Porsche 911 and Volkswagen. This setup was paired with four-wheel disc brakes and a five-speed gearbox, ensuring exceptional handling and balance. While the four-cylinder version of the 914 garnered some criticism for its perceived lack of speed, the 914/6 never faced such scrutiny, as it delivered a more spirited performance. As is characteristic of Porsche’s heritage, a competition-focused variant of the 914/6 emerged—the 914/6GT. Produced in limited quantities in 1970, the GT version underwent extensive tuning to produce approximately 220bhp. Lightweight features like glassfiber panels and Plexiglas windows contributed to weight reduction, while dramatically flared wheel arches accommodated wider wheels. Additionally, Porsche offered a GT kit that could be retrofitted onto a standard 914/6 by authorized Porsche dealers.
Today, the 914/6 has become highly sought after by enthusiasts. However, its production was relatively short-lived, with only 3,360 examples manufactured between 1970 and 1972.
Source: Bonhams Cars
