Why a 912?
 

I’m looking at a 912 right now. I’m a little surprised by my sudden interest. Maybe it is because my father had one. I have a 911, and I was thinking this might make for a nice balance: simpler to work on and evoking the 356 driving experience. Am I correct? What are the unique and pleasing (or not-so-pleasing) aspects of these models? Thanks for your thoughts.

I got a 912 because it was a lot less expensive then a 911. They dont have as much power (but enough to get you in trouble). I could still get a long hood swb and stay within my budget. I am selling mine though, and its only because Ive spent the last year restoring my 914 and I cant afford to have both.

The list could get real long on both the pro's and con's. Personally I think the pro's outweigh the con's. I own both and while my 911 will definately out top side the 912 the 912 will hold its on on a good and twisty road with its larger engined brothers. These cars have a fairly decent power to weight ratio. The longhood 912's only weigh about 2200 lbs. With appropriate wheels/tires, shocks, sway bars, etc they are a blast to drive. Find you a good one you won't regret it. Sign up on the 912bbs.org you will find a very dedicated group of 912 guys/gals there that can also answer most of your questions. The site is free all you do is just sign up as a member.

I own a 912 because...

I once owned a 911. I liked it, but I wanted more simplicity, better balance and a, well, less expensive _sports car_.

Emphsis on "sports car". My 912 is lighter, more fun to drive, and 1000 percent simpler to live with than my previous 911.

YMMV

I had three Porsches, a 356SC, 66 912, and a 74 911S. One had to go, and it was the 911. I prefer the four cylinder models because they are simple and inexpensive to work on, and they are more fun to drive. A 912, being quite a bit lighter and lacking the rear weight bias of a 911, is a noticeably better handling car. I live in the country with some really great curvy county roads, and although the 912 isn't as fast as the 911. it will give you all the excitement you can stand. A really great car!!

Good to hear. As owners, you've stated -- or confirmed -- a lot of the reasons I have for wanting one. And thanks, Jerome, for the tip.

I realize in re reading my post I may have come off negative about my 912. Its a great car and I absolutly love to drive it. Its really unique and easy to work on and is nice and light. If you have the chance to pick up a 912, I would highly reccomend it. They're great!