74 2.0 Ravenna Green is here!, now...what have I got? undercarriage pics link added Options

[iankarr]

Hi Guys,

Just arrived. And the more I go over the car, the more pleasantly surprised I am (for once!). The engine fires right up, idles smooth and provides great power without any funny noises or smells. Sounds great and drives great. Transmission shifts perfectly with no grinding. It even easily and reliably goes into first at a stop.

Very little documentation came with the car, but what I got is interesting. Seems the car was bought in Tucson, AZ and spent its first 20 years there (score!). It was then purchased by a collector in Wisconsin, who stored it in a climate controlled garage. Must be right, cause there's no signs of Wisconsin winter anywhere. He kept it for 22 years and then sold it, along with 3 other 914s to the guy I bought it from in Indiana (who also stored it in a large collector garage for a year). He never titled or registered the car, so technically I'm the 4th owner, but officially only the 3rd.

The car has had a recent repaint in the same color (Ravenna Green L65K). Engine bay and area under windshield around airbox and fuel tank look to be original paint. Unfortunately they painted the bumpers and rocker covers a non-stock finish. No signs of body damage anywhere.

The Odo says 29K miles. I'd of course say that it must've gone around and is really 129K. But some things are giving me a sneaking suspicion that it may be...could possibly be... a 29K car. Probably wishful thinking, but my 73 2.0 has 97K verified miles and also came from AZ. It's in great shape, but some things on this 74 car look a whole lot younger. Would love the brain trust's assessment or clues on what to look for. Maybe the teener equivalent of measuring teeth or counting rings (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif). I'll try to get some DMV info.

Consider...

– The area around the ignition lock has no scratches or marks from use.
– The plating on the trunk latches and hardware is still the correct color.
– The dash top is original and not cracked.
– The seat handles are intact.
– The A/C actually works!
– The top has no chips or scratches.
– Door cards and handles look to be original and pristine.
– The roll bar pad is perfect on top and has only one small crack underneath.
– Sail trim is undamaged.

I'll get it up on the lift tomorrow, and that should tell me a bit more.

Would love to get your thoughts...

Couple other observations...It seems to be missing the charcoal canister. It's neither up front nor in the engine bay. Not sure how where the vapor lines go yet. I don't think those ugly fabric inserts are stock...but the way they fit the headrest looks so. And what is that exhaust????

EDIT: Pics of undercarriage
https://pix.sfly.com/cEddbQ

Video link of the car running:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bljTJSk1QAA