Weapons grade versus more subtle 914/6 builds Options

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So it certainly appears if one uses BAT as a reference point that weapons grade 914/6 builds have been fully excepted as “worthy” the Porsche market.

Nearly all of those builds, however, have been high dollar endeavors, and while highly impressive machines many of them seem a bit compromised for actual road use or touring.

Any thoughts on where 3.0 and 3.2 L builds that are not taken to the max now trade?

[pencap914]

I'm just starting my 914/6 conversion, and needless to say it's been intimidating seeing these "weapons grade" builds that cost several times my annual salary. I certainly respect these builds, I'm sure a 914 with a hotrod 3.8 "big block" is one hell of a ride.

Regardless of cost, I think I would rather have a "small block" 914. If I wanted a muscle car, I would have gotten a Corvette, or (insert other Detroit iron here). Big block weapons grade 914's and more modest builds seems to be a similar dispute as the 427ci vs 289ci engine in the Shelby Cobra. Both equally respectable, the 427 Cobras seem to get a lot more attention and certainly sound and look more impressive. The 427s are more common, and seem to fetch more coin in a sale. However, I get more excited when I see a 289 Cobra. I've never driven either one, but I would imagine the lighter weight and more tame engine would make it more confidence inspiring to drive in a winding canyon or track.

Its interesting to me to see how these big block weapons grade builds sell for multi x that of a more modest build (See the recent 2.7L 914 that sold for less than 30k on BAT.)

I would build a hot rod 4cyl for my 914, but they just don't make the same noise as the 6. I originally wanted to find a 2.2 - 2.4 engine for my build, and I purchased a long block 2.4 (err, short block... engine doesn't turn over... long story) but ended up finding a 2.7l engine for a decent price since they're more common.

I do plan on installing steel fenders and 5-lug conversion, because that was always the dream of mine since high school, and I simply have not outgrown that. I wouldn't call this build of mine a "weapons grade" but I also wouldn't call it a stock 914/6 replica. It falls somewhere in the middle of the spectrum. Call it, a "spicy consumer grade(?)" build.

I chose the lowly profession of Civil Engineer, which means I have to keep a close eye on my budget. If I do a lot of the labor myself, and be patient about sourcing used parts for a decent price, I think I could get by with a car that will cost me $30-$35k. I certainly don't think it would be worth building it then trying to sell it off for a profit. I would be selling my time for free.