Original radio vs. new CD player for a 1974 914 2.0 Options

[swm914]

Hi all, The new guy is back with another question regarding originality on a 1974. I had some nice replies yesterday on my 1st topic/question on shifter knobs. My 914 came w/o a radio. I have the original window sticker and it never had one. The lady that had it for 30 years just liked to drive it wo/ the tunes
I want to keep it original but am torn between finding an orginal radio or putting in a tastefully matching CD player. I know that is a personal thing but If I show this car will a modern unit detract in judging? If I go original, does anyone know what model(s) where installed in 1974? Some guy on ebay is selling an OEM Radio Sapphire XXV that he says is good for my year. Is that true?

Also, I have alot to learn about the guts of the 914. There is no existing wiring etc. so whether I go old or new I'm not sure what the best way is to tap into power.

Any opinions, advice apprciated. Thanks
Steve

[anthony]

The radio is mounted on a plate in the dash so it would be pretty easy to save the original plate (not cut a hole in it) and save it for contests.

It would be easy enough to make a new plate out of sheet metal and glue factory looking vinyl to it. Often people sell this plate with the hole already cut and vinyl attached.

Personally I enjoy the 914 with the radio off 98% of the time. I can barely hear it if the top is off. If I didn't already have a radio installed I'd probably not ever install one.

The other thing to consider is whether you will drill a hole in the fender for an antenna. I wouldn't do it but I'm not sure how well those hidden antennas work.