914 and 356 Compared, Curious to hear the differences Options

[63acornwall]

Over the years I've had 5 914s, 4 that could be driven. 3 were 2.0s and my first was a new '73 1.7. I've logged well over 100k miles in a 914 but never driven a 356. I'm curious to hear from those who've driven both as to how they compare.

Hi Marc , over the years I've had three 356s and one 914 - actually a 914/6 Tribute with 2.7 litre engine.....and a load of 911s .

I tried a 914 2litre with its original FI before opting for a 914/6 Tribute , it seemed to me that the 914 chassis could do with more power ( and more brakes to match ) to make it a better drivers car. The 2 litre 4 was nice enough but the sound and acceleration were lacking.

The simple answer to your comparison is that a 356 drives different to a 914 . It soaks up road bumps better . The seats are deeply upholstered and seem to be part of the suspension !
A 356 has 4 forward gears that are well spaced so you can make more use of first and second gear in town. The gear linkage is a bit more direct too !! - making gear change a bit more straightforward . Powerwise there are 3 levels of 356 power- 60,75,90 hp . The higher power makes it easier to go up hills or cruise at highish speed - say 80-90mph - if you try cruising at 100mph you will find the front end goes light and crosswinds are dangerous .
All models except the 356C ( made 1964-5) have drum brakes which stop Ok but if not properly adjusted will pull you to one side.
The 356Cs are as has been said are great driving cars , I currently run a pre A ( made in1955) which has been updated to disc brakes and a 912 engine .

Rust is big big issue , there is no hell hole like 914 but floor pans and longitudunal boxes rot out as well as the bits you can see like door bottoms and fenders and wheel arches etc .