Prospective Owner Seeking Advice, Hoping to officially join the club! Options

[Briby37]

Hey Everyone,

Long time lurker and 914 admirer. First time poster. After some saving, and approval from my wife, I'm in the market for a 914! I've been developing some basic thoughts around what I'd like to be looking for, and while it's a matter of preference, I'd love to get your thoughts.

1. '73 or '74 to get the updated transmission, and avoid CA smog (I'm a California resident, bay area)

2. 2.0 - no replacement for displacement!

3. Excellent Drivability - I'm not looking for a project. While I may opt to get it tuned, or upgrade an exhaust, I'd like to be able to drive it home

4. Minimal rust - hell hole, longitudinals, trunk(s), etc. Outside of full restoration, seems like "rust-free" is a misnomer.

5. Appearance group

6. Budget of roughly $20K

That all being said, I'm not exactly sure what to look for in a good interior other than lack of tears, and cracks. So if anyone has a quick note of advice there, I'd appreciate it. Generally speaking, I could spend some money on the car after purchase, but I'd rather spend money up-front. I live in an apartment, so while I have a safe garage, I can't do much work myself.

Any thoughts are appreciated ("sounds good," "no way you'll find all of that," "try looking at X instead," etc.). Thanks, and I'm looking forward to updating you all on my progress!

[Briby37]

Great tips. I appreciate you all making me feel welcome.

I hear you on the rust. I don't want anything to do with needing to repair/replace rusted out sections.

Not sure about the 914/6 conversion. I like the 4s, and feel like I can get more for my money sticking with that.

As for the LEs - it's basically only aesthetics, correct? I'm not necessarily looking for an investment that returns anything other than fun. And if I'm honest, I'm not in love with the LE color schemes. Please do correct me if I'm wrong, though.