A golden yellow Porsche 912. Source: Motofutura
One of the main advantages that the Porsche 912 Coupé had over the original Porsche 911 was affordability. The 912 at the time was around $1,700 cheaper than the 911 ($4,700 vs $6,490) making it more accessible and affordable to a wider range of buyers. This was particularly important in the US market, where Porsche was trying to establish itself as a premium, luxurious brand.
The air-cooled flat-four engine of a Porsche 912. Predominantly in older Porsche models until the release of the Porsche 996. Source: Motofutura
The 912 had the same body style as the 911, but with a 4-cylinder engine instead of the 6-cylinder engine found in the 911. Despite its lower power output and smaller flat-four engine, the 912 still proved itself to be its own capable car. The original 1965 model had a 1.6-liter engine that produced 90 horsepower, which was enough to propel the car from 0-60 mph in around 11 seconds. Later models had a slightly larger 2.0-liter engine that produced up to 102 horsepower, which reduced the 0-60 mph time to around 9 seconds.
Source: Motofutura
A look inside of a Porsche 912's interior with a MOMO steering wheel. Source: Motofutura
However, one of the reasons why the 912 was so popular with car enthusiasts was its balanced handling. The car had a near-perfect weight distribution, all thanks to the engine’s positioning over the rear axle, which gave it a stable and predictable feel on the road. The 912 also had disc brakes and independent suspension at all four corners, enhancing its excellent braking power and handling.
A modified Porsche 912. Source: Motofutura
Source: Motofutura
The Porsche 912 also had classic styling that was reminiscent of other Porsche models from the 1960s. It had a sleek and timeless design that has aged well over the years, and it still turns heads today when it is seen on any street.
A Porsche 912 decal badge. Source: Motofutura
Good things don't last forever, as they say. The Porsche 912 was eventually replaced by the Porsche 914 in 1969. The 914 was a mid-engined sports car that was designed to be more modern and practical than the 912, but it lacked some of the wow factors that the 912 originally had, such as the body style and driving performance.
A Porsche 912 with a custom livery. Source: Motofutura
Today, the Porsche 912 is still considered to be a classic sports car that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. It is a reminder of a simpler time in the world of sports cars, when driving pleasure and balance were valued over raw power and speed. If you are lucky enough to come across a well-maintained Porsche 912 today, it is sure to put a smile on your face and give you a taste of what driving was like in the 1960s.
Porsche 912's infamous air cooled flat-four engine. Source: Motofutura
Source: Motofutura
