[Jeff Burger]

+ 1 with what kirk says

I grabbed a solid 1973 1.7 recently. I owned one 914 for a brief period 35 years ago and ever since it has been all 911 (coupes). I am not sure where the impetus really came from but I justified the purchase despite the Maaco repaint for many reasons-

Its rare to see one on the road today, its quirky and different , unpretentious (to most), next best thing to a convertible for those summer drives, it should get at least 10 more MPG on regular than my C2 daily driver, the need for speed (or brakes?)is not as important now, I got a solid, running register-able car at 1/2 the price of a rusty non running early 911 project, and finally I suspect it will appreciate as well or better then my bank account. Even if it doesn't, I will have a lot more fun with it then my bank account. Did I mention affordable? Insurance was cheap, and I immediately bought a rusty second parts car for spares including engine and transmission for very little money. I haven't registered it yet but unbelievably my 25 year old daughter suggested I should let her have it to use this summer.

My guess is since 914's have always had a limited following they will never be a stellar investment. I believe they lack broad enough appeal to get the speculators actively involved fueling the market. In addition they are averaging about 40 years old now so you better be prepared to work on them or suffer $100 an hour labor rates.