Lot Ended
Description
1965 Porsche 912
Smart early 912 in
good running order; all the looks of a 911 SWB at a fraction of the price; UK
registered with all duties paid
The year after
production of the now-iconic 911 had commenced in 1964, Porsche introduced the
identical looking 912 as an entry level model to the marque.
Although it shared its monocoque steel chassis with that of the
911, together with independent front torsion bar and trailing arm rear
suspension with all-round disc brakes, the engine was taken from the outgoing
Porsche 356. This was a 1,582cc flat-four that produced 90bhp. Driving through a
4- or optional 5-speed gearbox, it gave the car a top speed of 115mph – no match
for a 911 admittedly, but with a lighter all-up weight and the short-wheelbase
911 platform, it was still a fine sportscar in its own
right.
The proven reliability of the 356
powerplant combined with the 911 looks and low price made the 912 a very
attractive buy and it substantially outsold the much more expensive 911 during
the first few years of production. It proved especially popular with the
American market and around 32,000 were sold before production ceased in 1969,
all but a tiny handful in LHD.
Once somewhat
unloved, now that early SWB 911s have shot beyond the reach of most mere
mortals, the 912 is increasingly sought after today and prices have risen
accordingly, the very best routinely making £55k+ at
auction.
Dating from the first year of
production, this 912 was recently imported from Idaho, our vendor buying it from
a trusted source who claimed that the 34,961 miles indicated is correct.
However, as is typical of American imports, it has no history whatsoever so you
will have to make your own minds up on that score.
An early Karmann-built car with the standard 4-speed gearbox, it
looks most attractive in Light Ivory (6404) and appears to be in commendably
solid and largely original condition throughout, although it has clearly been
repainted to a good standard at some point in the not-too-distant past.
Described by the vendor as a “good driver
quality 912”, it has been starting easily and running nicely as we have moved it
around on site, with good 60psi oil pressure. Accompanied by a V5C and
registered here as JWE 874C, it is due to have black and silver number plates
fitted before the end of the auction.
With all
the looks of a SWB 911 but with none of the mechanical complexity and a fraction
of the cost, it looks mighty tempting at the sensible guide price suggested.
For more information contact James on
07970 309907 or email james.dennison@brightwells.com
* All charges are subject to VAT