914 compared to other vintage Porsche purchase thoughts Options

[wayne1234]

Looking for input from others who have owned or driven other vintage Porsche models. I am wanting to get back into a vintage car to drive somewhat regularly. Initially I was thinking I would get back into a 914 since I didn’t get to spend much seat time with my old one. I know they have shot up in value, As I’m cruising what’s for sale I’m trying to weigh what I want, this time around I can spend more on a good car if it makes sense. At first I was wanting a bit of a light project, and I still might, but I’m also thinking about just getting a nice one. Which at the price they are going for seems to open up other options, which has me thinking about straying away from the 914. Is it me or have the 356’s dropped in price? Especially the coupe. They were sky high 10 years ago. What do they drive like compared to a 914? I’m not going to track or push this car, I’m more looking for good overall vintage driving experience. I have also noticed there are a few 911’s that might fit the bill, but I almost think they are too common, I know a 911 will probably drive the best, but might have a little negativity in public, which is what I’m trying to get away from. What has been your criteria when you were thinking about your next car? I’m tending to hold on to them longer then I did in the past. And I’m wanting something more soul than than the garage queens I have. Thanks for any input

[Rufus]

Last buying decision I made was based on the fun factor in spirited street driving. IIRC it was Peter Gregg (please correct me if I’m wrong) who once said the greatest driving pleasure comes in a nimble, responsive, good handling car rather than a car with blinding straight line acceleration (i.e. a one trick pony.) This puts early Porsches at or near the top of the list of candidates.

IMHO the 914/6 or 914/6 conversion fill the bill perfectly ... with the obvious difference being how much value one puts on pedigree. My ‘67 911S is a cool car with timeless iconic design and pedigree. But I find that’s not so important to me now as earlier in life. Now I appreciate what some feel is the quirky 914 styling because fewer people know what it is, and it doesn’t have the perceived snob appeal of the 911S. The 914/6 ticks some important boxes for me ... lightweight, mid-engine (near optimal f/r balance, low polar moment of inertia), and dry sump / low CG.

Of all the cars I’ve owned, the two I’ll keep as long as I can drive ‘em are the 914/6 and my 1987 CRX Si ... IMHO both “bests” of their respective platform configurations for fun in spirited backroad driving.

In the end it’s a personal decision based on one’s desired balance between driving pleasure, styling, image, possible investment value, pedigree, etc..