1972 914 Build log Options

[jimbot2000]

So I've been watching you guys for a little while now and decided to join the fun. On Saturday a friend and I will drag home a 1972 914 that I'm going to strip to it's nuts (I'll take them off too) and redo! I'm living in Germany so she's a euro with number 4722909638 which according to the data on this site makes her a 72. Interesting thing is it has a 2.0L engine which I imagine isn't the original motor (GB stamped in to the case) I didn't flip it over to get the serial number yet. The current owners started this project but just don't have the time to finish it as it turns out. They did another car, 1969 actually which turned out beautiful.

I've done one car before this that turned out nice. A 67 Austin Healey Sprite, but the autobahn is calling and the Sprite just isn't up to the task. She's got a wonderful exhaust note, and is a blast to drive. But the bug has bitten me, and I need another project.

So as I plan this project, I have a couple questions for the pros.

1. This 2.0 should do 100 HP with the stock set up, and the Bosch FI. I see that it's possible to change cranks, cams, and cylinder sizes. But I'm curious if I can keep the FI of do I need to go to carbs? I had a big DCOE on my Sprite (basically a side draft IDF) and hated tuning that thing. With an endless selection of jets and air tubes, one needs a dyno and CO2 analyzer to tune the thing correctly. So I'd really like to stick with the FI, but step up the horsepowers if I can. So I'm interested in recommendations.

2. The rust on the car is light. I can see that I'll need to make a patch for the drivers side long, and a couple other small patches. But stripping the car down will tell the true story. The door gap between the drivers door and front fender is a bit on the big side, maybe 8 to 10mm. As the fenders are welded on to this car, can you guys give me an indication of what might be going on here? I'll be measuring the whole car, and hopefully find it when I do so. I could probably just middle out the door, but I like things to be right. I know it's hard to say without seeing the car, but perhaps someone has something to say on this point.

I'm sure I'll have more questions, but it looks like I found the right place to go for the answers! I only have a few pics now, I'll see if I can get them up.

Jim