Restoration or Porscharu, Whether to restore or Suberize Options

[R_u_dd]

I've got a 1971 914-4 with the 1.7 in need of restoration. The body has some minor dents, typical rust not severe but needs work. Looks to be the original engine and transmission. Most of the parts are there, though corroded.

Manufactured 10/70
vin 4712904015
4259606 L21E Tangerine
engine W018107x

I would like to make it a Porscheru with the WRX 2.0 Turbo and Subaru transmission wiring harness and ecu. But, I have misgivings about transforming a car that could also be restored to the original. Let's say I would like to stay around $5,000 (maybe I'm dreaming here), first do the metal repairs and paint, then drop in the Subaru engine. Similar to Orange 75 Project, engine is in...

I am looking for a little better performance and I'm not sure the original 80 hp engine with a lot of work involved is the answer.

So, for the return on investment, is it worth doing a restoration, or as my wife says, "do what you want to do with the car"- that would be the Porscheru.

Restore or Suberize?

Click below for all the pictures:

Photos on Photobucket


(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/i1301.photobucket.com-17072-1401772696.1.jpg)

Battery tray area

(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/i1301.photobucket.com-17072-1401772696.2.jpg)

Engine with corrosion and rust

(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/i1301.photobucket.com-17072-1401772697.3.jpg)

Engine Out

(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/i1301.photobucket.com-17072-1401772697.4.jpg)

[76-914]

Stock EJ20's or Turbo'd EJ20's are cranking out over 200hp??? I thought the 2.5 was 165hp. North of 200hp would put you in the category of a EG33 or EZ30D/R, 6 cylinder???
There aren't any snags with the ECU if the car was an auto originally. You'll just need the GB wire off the VSS harness to signal your ECU.
If you can weld you'll save about $500 if you build your own cradle and another $175 if you build your own shifter. Save another $600 if you make your own harness. Radiator/fans/related plumbing = $200-$500. The center differential from the Suby transmission will get you $250-$300 on Ebay. You'll need to upgrade your rear suspension to accommodate the extra weight if you go with a six. Otherwise stock is good.