1975 Porsche 914 1.8

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE 

This 1975 Porsche 914/4 Roadster is a California-specification example presented in its original, rare color of Ancona Blue Metallic (X5) over a black vinyl interior. It is powered by a 1.8-liter flat four engine bearing number EC038330, which is a date-correct 1975 engine that is believed to be original to the car. This 914 is offered with its Porsche Production Specifications certificate, a service manual, and a clean California title. 

According to Porsche’s Production Specifications certificate, this early 1975 model was produced in November 1974, fitted with equipment for California, a tinted windshield, and a center arm rest console. An enticing clue to its early history can be found on the nose of the car; the factory Porsche crest has been replaced with a bespoke version that, upon close inspection, reads “Beverly Hills Porsche”. One can imagine its proud first owner cruising the 90210 in those carefree days of the mid-1970s.  

The 914 has been previously repainted in its original Ancona Blue color, contrasted by black sail and rocker panels, and features the signature removable roof panel and pop-up headlights. The paintwork is showing its age and cracking in places. Original paint is present in jambs, engine bay, and inside the front trunk. There is some light body damage visible in the photos, primarily affecting the driver’s door.  

Wheels are period 15 inch Empi-style units shod in a matching set of 195/60 R15 tires bearing 2019 date codes. No spare is present. The interior features the original black vinyl fixed back bucket seats with a matching dashboard and door panels. A new Momo Prototipo steering wheel was recently installed as well as a new grey Perlon carpet set. A Sony AM/FM/CD head unit has also been installed along with speakers in the front door panels. The seller reports various blemishes including several cigarette burns in the seats; representative photos are in the gallery. Additional noted issues include an inoperative speedometer/odometer unit, and a broken (missing) seat adjuster on the driver’s seat. 

The 914 was sent to Porsche specialist shop Hi-Tec Automotive in San Rafael, California for a major service and inspection in December 2022, performed at a total cost of $6,490. Service and maintenance items included an oil and filter change and general safety inspection, a new set of rear brake calipers, a new battery, as well as a new fuel level sending unit. The engine received a major tune-up that included torquing the cylinder head nuts, replacing worn out fuel injection system vacuum hoses, replacing the distributor, installation of a fuel pressure gauge and repair of damaged wiring and various other minor issues. Finally, the fuel system was attended to with all four fuel injector hoses replaced along with the additional feed and return engine compartment fuel hoses. The engine’s overall health was verified with a compression check that resulted in readings of 115-120-100-110 psi respectively.   

 Following the recent major service, the 914’s owner reckons he has put about 500 or so miles on it, and the car presents today as an approachable, drivable classic that will be an entertaining motoring companion and potential entrant for any number of vintage driving events. Here is an attractive, roadworthy example of Porsche’s beloved entry level classic. 

Highlights  

• Solid, drivable example of Porsche’s mid-engined 914 

• December 2022 $6,500 major service by Porsche specialists at Hi-Tec Automotive  

• Documented with Porsche Production Specifications Certificate  

• Period Empi style eight-spoke wheels 

• New Momo Prototipo steering wheel 

• Rare Ancona Blue paintwork 

• Longtime California car 

• Original glass throughout 

 Features  

• Black bucket seats 

• Removable targa top roof 

• Factory tinted glass 

• MOMO Prototipo steering wheel 

• Aftermarket Sony AM/FM/CD head unit fitted 

• Four-wheel disc brakes 

 Known Imperfections  

• Battery tray rust

• Light body damage on driver’s side, primarily affecting driver’s door

• Older repaint is showing cracking, lifting, crazing and other signs of aging. Representative photos are included in the gallery

• Speedometer/odometer is inoperative 

• Tachometer works but often reads high 

• Missing/broken seat adjuster handle on driver’s seat 

• Various interior blemishes including several cigarette burns and small taped areas on upholstery (see gallery) 

• Spare wheel / tire are missing 

 Included  

• Porsche Production Specifications Certificate 

• Service manual 

• Copy of recent $6,500 service receipt from Hi-Tec Automotive 

Ownership History 

• November 1974 Vehicle Produced 

• 1975 Sold New in California – likely in Beverly Hills  Original owner & subsequent owner history unknown 

• June 2016 Acquired by Thomas Karanis Sonoma, California 

• September 2021 Acquired by Current Owner  San Rafael, California 

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Group Consignment Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. 

Contact: David Swig  Phone: 415.302.2247  email: dswig@hagerty.com