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914World.com _ 914World Garage _ OMG - had the best day of my life
Posted by: Gustl Jun 22 2007, 04:02 PM
Maybe some of you already noticed that the gemini blue 916 isn't for sale any longer at Cars Dawydiak. A couple of weeks ago there appeared the "Thank you, but sold" info (see http://www.carsauto.com/detail.cfm?ID=174786).
The car sold to Austria, to a well known Porsche dealer ... let's call him Mr.X. I was in contact with him several times and we always had interesting topics to discuss. This week I received a mail from him, where he told me that the 916 will arrive soon, but the car would stay in Austria for a short time only.
So I tried to get the day off and visit Mr.X to take a look at the 916 ... there would be not so many chances to see a real 916 in person.
Due to the long journey my day started a 3:45 a.m. 
When I arrived after a 5 hrs drive, we talked a little and then he showed me his "storage" ... about 30 Porsches side by side 
He told me that I could watch the cars without any hurry, and ... the 916 is the last in row ... the key is in the lock. There was very little place, so the photos might look way strange, but who cares ... I really touched a genuine Porsche 916.
After a while he came back to me and told me that he would have to finish some work at the office (next door to the car storage), but then he would like to drive the 916 - and I could come with him, if I want 
The 916 arrived yesterday evening and he didn't drive it yet. So, if the engine runs, we could enjoy a test drive 
And so it happend - half an hour later he opend the back door of the storage and started the car. A little gas at the station, warming up the engine smoothly, and then ... fun
Sorry, I can't describe this in an appropriate way, it was just amazing. That sound while acceleration, the screaming tyres in the roundabout and some other corners, what a blast!!!
I even took a little onboard video with my digicam, but it's poor quality ...
I'll upload it tomorrow and post a link, and off course some photos from today.
But now I need to go to bed - I really need sleep - this was an 18 hrs day for me ...
For now, that's it ... here's one photo as foretaste 
Attached image(s)
Posted by: Ferg Jun 22 2007, 04:05 PM
You Lucky Dog!!!
Ferg
Posted by: George H. Jun 22 2007, 04:07 PM
Nice
forget sleep lets see the pic's
Posted by: Demick Jun 22 2007, 04:09 PM
Great story! Thanks for sharing
Posted by: Johny Blackstain Jun 22 2007, 04:10 PM
:envy: :envy: :envy: :envy: !!!!!!!!!!!! Lucky dog ! I'm soooo jealous. Can't wait for the video. ![popcorn[1].gif](style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)
Posted by: SirAndy Jun 22 2007, 04:11 PM
that would have made my day as well ... 
i'm jealous!
Andy
Posted by: sendjonathanmail Jun 22 2007, 04:11 PM
please say you got a vid of the test drive....please? --JON
Posted by: So.Cal.914 Jun 22 2007, 04:12 PM
Cool Wolfgang...You dog.
Posted by: markb Jun 22 2007, 04:40 PM
Wow, very cool.
I can't wait to see the pics.
Posted by: iamchappy Jun 22 2007, 04:40 PM
I love that car and I've never met it.
Posted by: jaminM3 Jun 22 2007, 04:55 PM
Is this a well known car or something?
Is is "very Niiice"
What is pushing it around? other mods? 
Posted by: Gint Jun 22 2007, 05:13 PM
Giddyup! Bring on the video...
Posted by: dr914@autoatlanta.com Jun 22 2007, 05:15 PM
Maybe some of you already noticed that the gemini blue 916 isn't for sale any longer at Cars Dawydiak. A couple of weeks ago there appeared the "Thank you, but sold" info (see http://www.carsauto.com/detail.cfm?ID=174786).
The car sold to Austria, to a well known Porsche dealer ... let's call him Mr.X. I was in contact with him several times and we always had interesting topics to discuss. This week I received a mail from him, where he told me that the 916 will arrive soon, but the car would stay in Austria for a short time only.
So I tried to get the day off and visit Mr.X to take a look at the 916 ... there would be not so many chances to see a real 916 in person.
Due to the long journey my day started a 3:45 a.m.
When I arrived after a 5 hrs drive, we talked a little and then he showed me his "storage" ... about 30 Porsches side by side
He told me that I could watch the cars without any hurry, and ... the 916 is the last in row ... the key is in the lock. There was very little place, so the photos might look way strange, but who cares ... I really touched a genuine Porsche 916.
After a while he came back to me and told me that he would have to finish some work at the office (next door to the car storage), but then he would like to drive the 916 - and I could come with him, if I want
The 916 arrived yesterday evening and he didn't drive it yet. So, if the engine runs, we could enjoy a test drive
And so it happend - half an hour later he opend the back door of the storage and started the car. A little gas at the station, warming up the engine smoothly, and then ... fun
Sorry, I can't describe this in an appropriate way, it was just amazing. That sound while acceleration, the screaming tyres in the roundabout and some other corners, what a blast!!!
I even took a little onboard video with my digicam, but it's poor quality ...
I'll upload it tomorrow and post a link, and off course some photos from today.
But now I need to go to bed - I really need sleep - this was an 18 hrs day for me ...
For now, that's it ... here's one photo as foretaste
EVERY day is the best day of my life!!!!!
Attached thumbnail(s)
Posted by: jgara962 Jun 22 2007, 05:35 PM
That's a great story. You are dedicated to drive 5 hours to see a car, but it sounds like it was worth it!
Posted by: Bleyseng Jun 22 2007, 06:39 PM
yes. thats a amazing 916 and I saw it once in person too but didn't get to ride or drive it. 
Posted by: gregrobbins Jun 22 2007, 07:00 PM
Great story Wolfgang. Thanks for sharing.
So George, great to look at, but when will you take it out for a drive?
Posted by: 914-8 Jun 22 2007, 07:14 PM
great story!
that's a cool car, but man, I feel bad doing a color change on a plain old 4 banger 914. All of the changes that 916 had had, complete repaint and color change, etc., would be much nicer from a historical perspective if it was still all original.
Posted by: bernbomb914 Jun 22 2007, 08:28 PM
914-8 so what why be a negitive wet blanket about this car. that is not the point of this artical. I wouldn't trade that molested 916 for all your original cars.
Posted by: Doug Leggins Jun 22 2007, 09:58 PM
Way to go Wolfgang!!!! Your post and the pic brought a smile to my face. I could see myself doing the same thing, waking at 3:45 and driving 5 hrs to see a great car. You are a through and through enthusiast. Here's to you buddy
Posted by: 914-8 Jun 22 2007, 10:06 PM
914-8 so what why be a negitive wet blanket about this car. that is not the point of this artical. I wouldn't trade that molested 916 for all your original cars.
any real 916 is of course uber-cool, because they are rare and historical. I'd have driven 5 hours for a chance to get a ride in it, too. but can't change the unfortunate fact that so much of that car's original history has been erased. positive or negative, it is what it is.
it's also a bit of a shame that people seem interested in erasing that car's original past as much as possible. it seems taboo to even mention the color change and other mods. and showing pictures of the car as it originally was is strictly verboten. even though the car as it originally came from the factory was quite cool and unique.
my own car is ummm, a wee bit astray from original, so unfortunately there can't be a trade.
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 01:55 AM
--JONI have a little onboard video, but it's only poor quality because I had to make it with my old, little digicam (Benq DC5330). I'll upload it within the next hours and post a link.
George, if I would have this pleasure every day, it won't be very special
... at least after 10 or 20 years
not really much changes - the car is almost original - apart from the colour
but - the 916 will brought back to factory spec - it will undergo a complete resoration
When I decided to do this (decision took me one second), I didn't know that I would get a ride in it ... I would habe been happy enaugh to see the car, touch it and take some photos
photos & videos after my breakfast
GustlPosted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 02:34 AM
here are the videos - bandwith alert
1st video - about 8.5 MB:
Mr.X tried to get the car running and bring it out of the storage: http://www.oct.at/wos/916/9142330018a.avi
2nd video - about 2.3 MB:
after the test drive he used a single garage: http://www.oct.at/wos/916/9142330018c.avi
the video of the test drive is still uploading, it's about 31 MB
Gustl
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 02:37 AM
while waiting for the upload to be complete - here are 2 "outdoor" photos, just before the test drive
Attached image(s)
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 02:57 AM
well then, here's the 916-test-drive-onboard-video
unfortunately only the last 3 minutes, but better than nothing
interesting to know:
the car still has its original 7x15 rims with new tyres in original size 185/70-15
engine is 2.7 RS (210 PS)
this was the 1st test drive in Europe for a very, very long time ...
enjoy: http://www.oct.at/wos/916/9142330018b.avi - 31 MB !!!
Gustl
Posted by: Thomas J Bliznik Jun 23 2007, 05:58 AM
well then, here's the 916-test-drive-onboard-video
unfortunately only the last 3 minutes, but better than nothing
interesting to know:
the car still has its original 7x15 rims with new tyres in original size 185/70-15
engine is 2.7 RS (210 PS)
this was the 1st test drive in Europe for a very, very long time ...
enjoy: http://www.oct.at/wos/916/9142330018b.avi - 31 MB !!!
GustlHi Gustl (Wolfgang)
Just found this & I am soooo happy for you. I can't think of anyone on this forum more deserving than you to have this experience
I am sure the current owner offered the ride because he could see your genuine excitement in this beautiful 916. Way to go Wolfgang 
I wish it was possible we all could take up a collection to buy you this 916. I know it's not possible due to it's value.
Tom
Posted by: Bartlett 914 Jun 23 2007, 06:20 AM
You are a lucky guy Wolfgang. I love that car. I have a picture of the interior that I use as my computer wallpaper. That car seems so perfect that the idea of "Restoring it" doesn't fit.
Posted by: Johny Blackstain Jun 23 2007, 06:36 AM
Wolfgang- well done brother . Engine sounds like my 2.7 . Funny how she wound up back in Europe. I like the antenna wire in the windshield going up & down in vid 3. I also notice no roof rattle noises... nice! Do you know where she's going to wind up? Also, you mentioned restoration... what color? 
again hermano!
Posted by: thesey914 Jun 23 2007, 07:46 AM
Gustl, Wow amazing -shame the cars going back to the factory paint (what colour is it btw?) I love that colour against the tan interior. Is this car in Germany or France -I think I would drive at least that far to see it.
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 08:41 AM
many thanks, Tom ... but the car is definitely not for sale ...
GustlPosted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 08:45 AM
the way I understood this is, that they disassamble the car and do a very smooth restoration (not only "old parts away, new parts in")
the target is, to bring it back to factory spec - not to get a "better than new" car
and the owner promised to send me photos, once it's done
Gustl
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 08:52 AM
au contraire - there are still four 916 in the USA
that's just me, trying to balance the digicam
it's sold to "homeland" - but I don't know more details about the deal ...
factory original, of course - dark blue (I think that was a 911 colour in the 70ies)
btw - cool new VIN below your avatar
Gustl
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 08:55 AM
dark blue
me too
currently in Austria - but next week they bring it to Germany, where the restoration will take place
Gustl
Posted by: dr914@autoatlanta.com Jun 23 2007, 09:12 AM
--JONI have a little onboard video, but it's only poor quality because I had to make it with my old, little digicam (Benq DC5330). I'll upload it within the next hours and post a link.
George, if I would have this pleasure every day, it won't be very special
... at least after 10 or 20 years
not really much changes - the car is almost original - apart from the colour
but - the 916 will brought back to factory spec - it will undergo a complete resoration
When I decided to do this (decision took me one second), I didn't know that I would get a ride in it ... I would habe been happy enaugh to see the car, touch it and take some photos
photos & videos after my breakfast
GustlI LOVE the fact that we have in you an enthusiast who is as enthusiastic about 914s FOR LIFE as I am!!!! I once drove four hours to see the prototype 916 in a body shop being refurbished as back then I had never seen one "in the flesh" so-to-speak, and at that time it was the most memorable day in my life also!
Only later when I was fortunate enough to purchase my 916 (thank you everybody for all of your parts purchases over the years to let me do it!!!!) that I was able to live the dream. I actually flew down to Jacksonville Florida, and drove the car back to Atlanta, as speed, to totally enjoy the rare and unique opportunity to drive the ultimate factory produced 914 (and believe me the difference between the 916 and any other 914 are outstanding, even the massaged 3.0 in the so called "retro concept car" we have in the showroom next to it)
Again I wish you the best and am so happy to know such an enthusiastic fellow 914 lover!
ps I spoke to Jerry Leonard quite often when HE owned this blue 916, and Brett Johnson and I were writing the Authenticity book
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 09:14 AM
here are some impressions of my first views through the car storage full with Porsches (o.k. - one non-Porsche ...)
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Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 09:26 AM
just a view exterior photos - as you can see, there was very little space and difficult light for photos ...
"the key is in the lock ... enjoy the car ... I've a little work at the office next door"
the license plate frame from Walter Dawydiak is still on the car
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Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 09:37 AM
here are some interior shots
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Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 09:42 AM
under various hoods 
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Posted by: Bartlett 914 Jun 23 2007, 09:47 AM
Wolfgang. Thanks for sharing all those great photos!
What is funny to me is to see the 60's Ford Fairlane in with all the Porsches.
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 09:54 AM
here are the most interesting numbers
check out the Karmann badge - it says L 80 E
this is because the 916 cars were all built from light ivory bodies
I checked out some areas under carpets, there the car sill was light ivory!
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Posted by: 914Tom Jun 23 2007, 10:10 AM
hi Gustl,
a porsche dealer in austria ?
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 10:12 AM
the steel roof
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Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 10:15 AM
windshield antenna
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Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 10:17 AM
hi Gustl,
a porsche dealer in austria ?
and which detail exactly is so funny
got a clown for breakfast, huh
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 10:22 AM
Becker Mexico Cassette full Stereo
center storage box with two non original lights (fasten seat belt & break fluid)
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Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 10:25 AM
last photos - a nice detail: the inside of the targa bars are black
AFAIK this is at all 916
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Posted by: computers4kids Jun 23 2007, 10:39 AM
Wolfgang...the pics and videos are awesome...thanks for sharing!
I hope it's OK...
I didn't want any of the dial-up folks to miss-out on your videos so I sewed all three of them together into one video that is 4mb.
http://computers4kidshome.com/916.wmv
Thanks again for sharing,
Mark
Posted by: JRust Jun 23 2007, 10:55 AM
"JAW DROP" I'm speechless! Truly a kid in the candy store for the first time. I've seen a few nice garages full of cars. That takes the cake for me. I would not have wanted to leave!
Posted by: Johny Blackstain Jun 23 2007, 10:57 AM
Wolfgang you are a dog! I'm so jealous. I went down to Atlanta & saw the 16 that George has 4 years ago, but I did not get to ride in it. Dog! Interesting info, all L80E? I had no idea. That garage is to die for!!! You also mentioned there are 4 here? I know of Georges', who has the other 3? Tell your friend to get rid of that Interstate battery immediately! I can't believe that car has a wet cell in it. Glad you liked my avatar . Great job, nice shots & cool videos. George is going to have to do something to get his 16 rolling... you've given him no choice ! Fantastico!
Posted by: KELTY360 Jun 23 2007, 12:12 PM
What is funny to me is to see the 60's Ford Fairlane in with all the Porsches.
Looks like one of the '64 Monte Carle Rallye cars. Finished 2nd to a Mini Cooper.
http://www.westcoastfalcons.com/scff/histriv/rally6.htm
Great car story Wolfgang! Amazing car. Gotta say, I love seeing that car with a few raindrops on it.
Posted by: 914Tom Jun 23 2007, 12:38 PM
hi Gustl,
a porsche dealer in austria ?
and which detail exactly is so funny
got a clown for breakfast, huh
sorry gustl, maybe it was the clown ....
i thought of österreich an think it is about 100km wide an 600km long.
in 5h you can travel the whole country.
so I guess this journey was the 'worst case scenario'
but this is WOT here, Sorry an please forget it.
Thank you for the details of the 916, never saw on, an probably never will see one.
TOM
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 01:04 PM
Wolfgang...the pics and videos are awesome...thanks for sharing!
I hope it's OK...
I didn't want any of the dial-up folks to miss-out on your videos so I sewed all three of them together into one video that is 4mb.
http://computers4kidshome.com/916.wmv
Thanks again for sharing,
Mark
Great job, Mark
I'm an idiot in video things - I've no idea how to shrink it or to cut
would it be o.k. if I make this available in a german forum?
GustlPosted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 01:14 PM
914.1.43.0195 - David Herzberg
914.2.33.0011 - Kerry Morse
914.2.33.0012 - George
914.2.33.0020 - Bill Story
I hope this info is still accurate
any newer info would be highly appreceated
Gustl
Posted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 01:20 PM
this could be - Mr.X is known to have very exclusive cars
and this car was absolutely race prepared - no interior, roll cage, fire extinguisher system, ...
sorry, I had hardly any interrest in this car
GustlPosted by: Gustl Jun 23 2007, 01:24 PM
hey Tom - absolutely no problem ... I just wanted to make the contra-joke
side-info: you can't travel from Bregenz to Jennersdorf in less than 8 hrs (if you go street legal
) 
GustlPosted by: JPB Jun 23 2007, 02:36 PM
That is the holliest of holly grails
Posted by: computers4kids Jun 23 2007, 02:50 PM
Wolfgang...the pics and videos are awesome...thanks for sharing!
I hope it's OK...
I didn't want any of the dial-up folks to miss-out on your videos so I sewed all three of them together into one video that is 4mb.
http://computers4kidshome.com/916.wmv
Thanks again for sharing,
Mark
Great job, Mark
I'm an idiot in video things - I've no idea how to shrink it or to cut
would it be o.k. if I make this available in a german forum?
GustlAbsolutely!
I'm still in awe with those garage pics of all those porsches!
Posted by: Pat Garvey Jun 23 2007, 08:35 PM
914-8 so what why be a negitive wet blanket about this car. that is not the point of this artical. I wouldn't trade that molested 916 for all your original cars.
Wehh, I sense some negtaivity here.....
In the presence o0f greatness too.
Wow - hostility!
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Jun 23 2007, 10:02 PM
Good fun Gustl, my shop also had a visit from a 916 owner in the early '80s...the late Otis Chandler. His car was yellow and he said that it was purchased directly thru Dr. F. Porsche's sister. We took turns driving it thru Culver City and I did remember that it was absent of 914 creaks and roof rattles. Also that the engine was full of torque. I then sucessfully talked him out of adding a turbo to the car...due to its inherrent uniqueness He really didn't need more power in the car, he already owned a 935, Gulf 917 and a 917/ 30 to go fast in ! I also sat shotgun in a tiny jumpseat for 6 laps in his 917/30 at Riverside. He was a polished driver in that car. His 916 was sold off --and I'm sure you know where it is !
Marty
Posted by: shelby/914 Jun 23 2007, 11:15 PM
Must have been a very exciting day and well worth the early drive. I almost hate to ask this question, but as a resident Ford guy, I must, is the white Falcon a rally car. Looks like it has a lift off hood with pins to hold it in place like my Shelby.
here are some impressions of my first views through the car storage full with Porsches (o.k. - one non-Porsche ...)
at least I know you noticed it
Posted by: type47fan Jun 24 2007, 12:34 AM
Great documentary of your experience, Wolfgang! Thanks for relating it to us in such vivid detail.
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