1969 Porsche 912

Today, all but true Porsche enthusiasts may have forgotten that the Butzi Porsche-styled 901 (aka, 911) had a four-cylinder twin for the first five years of production. Introduced in 1965 as a replacement for the venerable old 356, the new four-cylinder Porsche brought the 911’s new design across the entire product line. A 912 is essentially a 911 body paired with a pushrod four-cylinder, which was actually a slightly detuned variant of the 356SC motor. While the 912 did weigh 133 pounds more than the old 356C, the new body was more aerodynamic and a five-speed gearbox, a $75 option for the 912, aided performance. Upon its introduction the 912 sold for $4,700, and it outsold the 911 by a margin of two to one. Porsche’s 100,000th car was actually a 912, and it was a Targa outfitted for a German police department.

Outside of the engine compartment, only badging and interior fitments distinguished the 912 from the 911, with true base cars having a plastic steering wheel rim and a three-dial dash as opposed to the 911s five-dial unit. A four-speed all-synchromesh transmission was standard with a five-speed optional. Most of the other usual 911 options were available including special order paints, a sunroof, and the unique soft rear window Targa top. For 1969, like the 911, the 912 rode on a stretched wheelbase with flared fenders and redesigned gauges. 1969 would prove to be the final model year for the 912.