Is there a modern 914, Wondering if there is a 21st century equivalent Options

[worn]

I have been wondering a lot lately if there is an equivalent of a light weight sports car like a 914 made for today’s drivers. The 914 seems to have been focused on driving, rather than comfort: my 61 Falcon was no less comfortable or optioned. I know they have to pass safety and emissions. A toybaru?

[burton73]

No brainer on this. Boxster. Ask anyone that has owned both.
Modern with all the good stuff.

Heavier but more HP.

Bob B

[era vulgaris]

No brainer on this. Boxster. Ask anyone that has owned both.
Modern with all the good stuff.

Heavier but more HP.

Bob B

I would agree, but would limit it to the 97-99 2.5L base model. It's the simplest Boxster, and if you want a comparable driving experience to a 914 in terms of power, I think the larger displacements will be too fast.
2.5 Boxster: 201 hp, 2822 lbs, 0-100kph 6.9s
2.0 914: 99 hp, 2090 lbs, 0-100kph 10.5s

My 98 2.5L feels straight line power-wise, very similar to my old 75 914 with the 2270. In terms of handling though, you're going to need to be going at least 20mph faster in the Boxster to get the same sensation because the suspension is so much more sophisticated. Curves and turns I'd take in my 914 at 50mph that were exhilarating are no-nonsense at the same speed in the Boxster.

The seating position is almost exactly the same, which I really like because for me the 914 is the most comfortable car I've ever sat in, hands down. Also the early 97-99 Boxsters don't have all the annoying touch screens and electronic gizmos, so it still feels pretty analog. I think the base model shift knob is actually the same one that Porsche had been using for the entire 924/944/968 range.

For a modern car it's been fairly straightforward to work on so far. I've repaired the SAI system, replaced struts, changed oil, replaced spark plug tube seals. Not as straightforward as a 914, but for a modern car, not bad.

I only wish the 5 speed on the Boxster was a dog leg. But otherwise I think it's fair to say it's a next-gen or next evolutionary step of the 914.

But if you want something that's a bit more vintage and probably more exactly the feel of a 914 but with a few more modern accessories like AC and fuel injection, the first gen AW11 MR2 or the 80's Fiat X1/9 might get you there. The X1/9 even has a targa top that can stow in the car!