Back to Porsche
Official AutoWiki Guide

Porsche 912

Find Me One
```html

The Porsche 912: A Comprehensive Guide

The Porsche 912, produced between 1965 and 1969 (and then briefly revived in 1976 as the 912E), represents a significant chapter in Porsche's history. Conceived as a replacement for the outgoing 356, it offered a more affordable entry point into the Porsche family while maintaining the brand's commitment to sporting performance and distinctive styling. The 912 is a two-door, 2+2 high performance sports car, classified as a grand tourer given its emphasis on comfortable long-distance driving and sporty handling.

Generations

  • 1965-1969 (912): The original 912. This generation used a modified version of the 356's 1.6-liter air-cooled flat-four engine, detuned for better drivability and fuel economy in the heavier 911 chassis. Key features include the torsion bar suspension, four-wheel disc brakes (standard from 1966), and a lightweight design.
  • 1976 (912E): A single-year revival of the 912, bridging the gap between the outgoing 914 and the upcoming 924. The 912E used a fuel-injected 2.0-liter VW Type 4 engine, sharing its chassis with the then-current 911. This variant offered improved emissions control and reliability compared to the original 912's engine.

Reliability & Common Issues

The Porsche 912, while generally reliable for a car of its age, does have certain areas that require careful inspection and maintenance. Understanding these issues is crucial for potential buyers.

Original 912 (1965-1969):

  • Engine: The 1.6-liter flat-four, while robust, is prone to oil leaks. Pay close attention to the valve covers, pushrod tubes, and crankshaft seals. Regular oil changes are essential. Carburetor adjustment can be finicky, leading to poor running if neglected. Cylinder head studs can also fail over time, especially in earlier models.
  • Transmission: The four- or five-speed manual gearbox is generally reliable but check for worn synchros, especially in second gear. Listen for whining noises, which can indicate worn bearings.
  • Suspension: The torsion bar suspension requires periodic lubrication. Worn torsion bars can sag, affecting handling. Check the condition of the shocks and bushings, as they will likely need replacement on an unrestored car.
  • Brakes: The four-wheel disc brakes are effective but can suffer from corrosion. Check the condition of the rotors, calipers, and brake lines. Ensure the brake booster (if equipped) is functioning correctly.
  • Rust: Rust is a major concern, particularly in the rocker panels, floor pans, battery tray, and around the windshield. Thoroughly inspect these areas for signs of corrosion.
  • Electrical: Lucas electrical components are notoriously unreliable. Check the wiring harness for cracked insulation and corroded connections. Ensure all lights, gauges, and accessories are functioning correctly.

912E (1976):

  • Engine: The 2.0-liter VW Type 4 engine is more robust than the original 912's engine, but fuel injection issues can arise. Check the condition of the fuel injectors, fuel pump, and control unit. Vacuum leaks can also cause running problems.
  • Rust: Similar to the earlier 911s, rust is a significant concern. Check the same areas as mentioned for the original 912.
  • Suspension and Brakes: Shares common issues with the contemporary 911, including wear and tear on suspension components and potential brake corrosion.
  • Smog Equipment: Due to the emissions regulations of the era, the 912E is equipped with smog equipment that can degrade performance and require maintenance.

Driving Experience

The Porsche 912 offers a unique driving experience that blends classic Porsche characteristics with a more accessible and forgiving nature than its 911 sibling. The lighter engine contributes to a more balanced handling feel.

Pros:

  • Balanced Handling: The lighter engine makes the 912 more balanced than the 911, resulting in nimble and predictable handling.
  • Fuel Economy: The 1.6-liter engine (original 912) offers significantly better fuel economy than the 911's larger engines.
  • Classic Porsche Feel: The 912 retains the classic Porsche steering, suspension, and braking characteristics.
  • Simplicity: The 912 is mechanically simpler than the 911, making it easier to maintain and repair.
  • Affordable Entry Point: Historically, the 912 offered a more affordable entry point into the Porsche world, though prices have been rising in recent years.
  • Smooth ride (912E): The 912E has more power and a slightly smoother ride due to suspension improvements.

Cons:

  • Performance: The 1.6-liter engine (original 912) can feel underpowered, especially compared to the 911. Acceleration is leisurely, particularly at higher speeds.
  • Noise: The air-cooled engine can be noisy, especially on long journeys.
  • Parts Availability: Some parts for the 912 can be difficult to find, particularly for the original engine.
  • Heating/Cooling: Air-cooled Porsches are known for less effective heating and cooling, especially in extreme weather conditions.

Buying Advice

Purchasing a Porsche 912 requires careful research and inspection. Here's some advice to help you find the right car:

What to Look For:

  • Rust-Free Example: Prioritize finding a car with minimal rust. Extensive rust repair can be costly and time-consuming.
  • Complete History: A well-documented service history is a valuable asset. It provides insights into the car's maintenance and care.
  • Original Components: Look for a car with as many original components as possible. While modifications can be appealing, originality adds value.
  • Solid Mechanical Condition: Have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified Porsche mechanic. This will help identify potential problems.
  • Clean Title: Ensure the car has a clean title, free from any liens or encumbrances.

What to Avoid:

  • Cars with Extensive Rust: As mentioned earlier, rust is a major concern. Avoid cars with significant rust damage.
  • Cars with Poorly Executed Modifications: Avoid cars with poorly executed modifications, as these can negatively impact performance and reliability.
  • Cars with Missing or Damaged Parts: Finding replacement parts for the 912 can be challenging. Avoid cars with missing or damaged parts.
  • Cars with Unclear History: Cars with a murky or incomplete history should be approached with caution.
  • Overpriced examples: Research the market thoroughly to understand fair pricing. Be wary of cars priced significantly above market value without clear justification.

Specific Years:

  • 1966-1969 912 (Original): Generally considered the most desirable of the original 912s, as they benefited from minor improvements over the earlier models.
  • 1976 912E: Offers a more modern driving experience with fuel injection and improved reliability, but sacrifices some of the classic charm of the original 912. It's often considered a good value.

Ultimately, buying a Porsche 912 is a rewarding experience. By doing your homework and exercising caution, you can find a classic Porsche that provides years of driving pleasure.

```