From Collaboration to Classic: The Story of the Porsche 914/6
The Porsche 914/6 is a mid-engine sports car produced between 1970 and 1972. It was a collaboration between Porsche and Volkswagen designed to be a more affordable alternative to the Porsche 911.
The "914/6" specifically refers to the six-cylinder variant, which featured a 2.0-liter flat-six engine derived from the 911.
The Porsche 914/6 wasn't a full convertible but a targa-top sports car. This means it featured a removable roof panel that allowed for open-air driving while still retaining a fixed rear window and roll bar for structural support. The targa design provided the best of both worlds: the fun of driving with the wind in your hair and a solid structure for safety and rigidity. The removable roof panel was lightweight and easy to store in the trunk, making it quite convenient for its time.
Despite its short production run, the 914/6 is highly sought after by Porsche enthusiasts for several reasons:
- Performance: Its mid-engine layout provided exceptional handling and balance, making it a joy to drive.
- Racing Legacy: The 914/6 achieved notable success in motorsports, including a class win at the 1970 Le Mans and victories in the IMSA GT series.
- Rarity: Only about 3,351 units of the 914/6 were produced, making it a rare collector's item.
- Historical Significance: It is considered a precursor to modern Porsche models like the Boxster and Cayman.
Collaboration with VW
The partnership between Porsche and Volkswagen dates back to the 1930s, when Ferdinand Porsche designed the iconic Volkswagen Beetle, one of the most recognizable cars in history. Over the years, the two companies worked together on various projects, including:
- Porsche 356: The first Porsche sports car, introduced in the late 1940s, relied heavily on mechanical components from the Volkswagen Beetle.
- Porsche 912E: A short-lived model from the mid-1970s that used a Volkswagen engine.
- Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne: These modern SUVs share platforms and engineering expertise.
Their collaboration has evolved over time, culminating in Volkswagen's acquisition of Porsche in the 2000s, which further solidified their relationship.
The Porsche 914/6 stands as a testament to innovation and collaboration, blending affordability, performance, and a racing legacy into an enduring classic. Its rare, mid-engine design and historical significance continue to capture the hearts of Porsche enthusiasts worldwide.