Among the many sports cars of the 1970s, the Porsche 914-6 stands out as one of the most fascinating. A car that was designed to slot beneath the 911 in Porsche’s lineup ended up being so good that it created problems for the brand. With its midengine layout, lightweight design, and the revered six cylinder engine, the 914-6 became a performance machine that Porsche itself had to hold back.
A Joint Effort with an Unexpected Outcome
The 914 was originally conceived as a joint project between Porsche and Volkswagen. Volkswagen wanted an affordable sports car, and Porsche saw an opportunity to create an entry level model. The standard 914 was fitted with a four cylinder engine, offering fun but not overwhelming performance. However, Porsche then decided to install the 2.0 liter flat six from the 911T into the car, creating the 914-6, and the result was nothing short of spectacular.
Too Good for Its Own Good
The 914-6 was never meant to overshadow the 911, but it nearly did. The combination of a mid engine layout and a flat six engine gave it handling characteristics that some argued were superior to its rear engined sibling. Porsche, realizing the potential conflict, intentionally hobbled the 914-6 by fitting it with the lower spec 911T engine rather than a more powerful version. It was also priced nearly as high as a base model 911, ensuring that most buyers opted for the more prestigious 911 badge instead.
Performance That Stunned Enthusiasts
Even with Porsche’s restrictions, the 914-6 was a formidable sports car. Weighing just over 2,000 pounds, it made the most of its 110 horsepower engine. The car’s balance was exceptional, offering a level of stability and precision in corners that the 911 of the era couldn’t match. With its low center of gravity and direct steering, it delivered an incredibly connected driving experience.
A Rare Gem
Porsche only built around 3,300 examples of the 914-6, making it one of the rarest production models in the brand’s history. While the standard four cylinder 914s were produced in much larger numbers, the six cylinder version quickly became a collector’s item. Today, the 914-6 is among the most sought after classic Porsches, recognized for its unique place in the brand’s history and its raw, undiluted driving character.
The Legacy of the 914-6
Despite its short production run, the 914-6 left a lasting impact. It proved that a properly balanced, mid-engine sports car could challenge even Porsche’s flagship models. The car’s DNA can be seen in later Porsche models like the Boxster and Cayman, which also embraced the mid-engine layout for superior handling.
Final Thoughts
The Porsche 914-6 was a car that Porsche had to keep in check, not because it wasn’t good enough, but because it was too good. A mid-engine sports car with a six cylinder engine, it remains one of the greatest driving experiences of its era. For those lucky enough to own one, it represents a unique chapter in Porsche history—one where the underdog almost outshined the legend.
