Did the 1971 914-6's come with a side shifter or was there a change over point going to the side shift configuration?

I know the 70's had tail shift.

Also I have seen some 1972 914-6 with the ignition on the column, is that also correct?

The '71 six had a tail shifter; same as the '70/72.

The '72 six had the ignition on the steering column as they were using 4 cylinder steering columns for the '72. Personally I love the ignition to the left of the wheel as God intended.

Might also add that the 914-6 tail shifter is not the same as the 914 tail shifter..
Some of the 914-6s were converted later on, some complete trannies, others the "Six"" tranny converted..

All /6 are special tail shift. Conversion to side is not difficult, and is worth it according to those I have done it for

I saw a 914-6 which had matching number trans, but it was side shift. I was wndering if it was a conversion. Is it possible to convert back ?

All good info !

Converting back and forth is easy.