Stiffening kit/rollcage or both? Options

[oldsoldier]

Just bought a 1973 914 with plans of autox / roadcourse PDX only. I've just had the engine (1.7 carbed) rebuilt as well as the complete brake system done. I bought a used 914 rollcage (4 point bolt in) and plan on installing it next month. Should I also install the stiffening kit as well or will the cage supply enough added support? Thanks in advance....Jack

[J P Stein]

My.02......which has been modified by time & experience.

A 4 point roll cage avails you nothing except extra weight and makes the car less safe.... unless you are wearing a helmet at all times (even then, it's iffy). The extra structure doesn't extend past the major "flex points" (the approximate ends of the door openings) of a 914.
I feel the same way about the "long reinforcements" in the passenger compartment. A roll hoop can be welded in and will add a bit of safety......tho one would have to work at rolling over a 914.

Stiffening a 914 chassis enough to force the suspension to do it's work properly is no small chore. BTDT.

Spend your money on good tires along with a good AX alignment instead. You (or your wife) can still have fun even if the car is not competitive.