An Enthusiast's Guide

The 914 was born into consistently confusing and troubled times at Porsche and Volkswagen. The idea of a non-911 Porsche in the late 1960s horrified many. A Porsche with an engine that wasn't in the back was simply unthinkable. Richard Gooding examines the story of a car of mixed parentage, which against the odds became a success in its relatively short, six-and-a half year lifespan. Around 119,000 cars were sold from 1969 to 1975, outselling contemporary rivals such as the Opel GT, and meaning it was the first mid-engined car to achieve six-digit sales. As a present-day classic, although challenging to some, low-slung looks and bright colours make the 1970s 914 period-perfect. Combined with near-ideal weight distribution and a low centre of gravity, its mid-engine layout means the 914 can achieve cornering G-forces comparable to the contemporary 911. The 914 was seen as a car that could inject a shot of glamour into VW's slightly worthy and dependable range of air-cooled cars. AUTHOR: Richard Gooding is a motoring writer with a car and Volkswagen obsession. A contributor to Volkswagen Driver and VW Motoring magazines, Richard has also sub-edited a diverse range of titles including Classic Car Weekly, Classic Cars, Land Rover Owner International and Practical Classics. SELLING POINTS: ? Covers the history, development and manufacture of the 914 through troubled times at Porsche and Volkswagen. ? The impact of its design upon its successors is discussed as well as buying and owning a 914 today It set the template for other non-rear-engined Porsches. ? Of great interest to Porsche and VW enthusiasts as initially the 914 was a Porsche-VW collaboration. ? Superbly illustrated with 218 colour photographs. ? Richard Gooding is a Volkswagen obsessive, a motoring writer and a contributor to many VW and classic car magazines. 218 colour photos