Determining value, When is an original six just a conversion? Options

[enderw88]

I have a line on an original 914-6. It is running a '79 3.0 engine, has racing seats, roll cage (removable, I think). The front suspension is modified, with 944 Turbo front brakes and with the original 914 front brakes moved aft. The paint is not the original color. The seller wants to price it like an original /6, which I guess it is.

How can I estimate the value of this thing with respect to a well done 914/4-6 conversion? This car is so far from original that I can't see putting it back. It is like trying to sell George Washington's axe, even though the head has been replaced once or twice, and the handle broken some time ago so that was replaced too, but its still George Washington axe...

[Pat Garvey]

Here's my take on an "original 914-6". My opinion & feel free to take me to task.

An "original 914-6" has engine and transmisssion number to match the VIN. Yeah, I know that the tranny numbers are vague, and I'll give some ground (limited) there. It should have a 2.0 six from the 914-6 lineage at the least. Bodywork should be as delivered for that vehicle. Paint should be at least 75% original. If the paintwork is greater, but the original engine/trans are correct it is a restored car. And, there is nothing negative about a properly restored 914-6. I would bid on a restored-to-original six anytime.

The original poster inquired about the value of a highly modified six that seller considered "original". It is FAR from original & would take extreme bucks to bring it back to even restored levels. It is obviously overpriced.

Look, you guys know that I'm a purist. Would I convert a 4 banger to a six? Yeah, I already have a 4 banger original car. But I would only do it with "lost" 914-4. Would I mess with an original six - no way! It's a classic, and deserves to be treated as such.

The principle is the same here - would you put flares and a 3.6 in a 904 or 906?
Pat