I edited your title for you Dave.
Two post vs. 4 post lifts are an endless argument. It depends on what you want to use it for. The two post is better for most car work, especially engine drops for a 914. But if you want storage for multiple cars, then 4 posts are better. 4 posts can also be used without permanently bolting them to a garage floor and can also be equipped with wheels so you can move them at will. It all depends on what your actual needs are. Think about it long enough and you'll see what I mean. I thought about it for several years before I bought mine.
I love my 4 post. I only have 9.5 ft. ceiling height. I can only park 2 914s one on top of the other because of the very low height of the cars. With 12' ceiling height, you should easily be able to park a Civic and a 914 using a 4 post lift. But as with all things, decide on a particular lift, find out the maximum height of the ramps when on the top most lock, and then measure your 914 and Civic heights to be certain. Should work though.
Here's a pic from last month.
Do a google search for "automotive lift" you'll get tons of info.