914 vs. 912, need input Options

[Z Driver]

I've been looking at 914's for a while as an auto-x car/fun driver. I receltly saw a 912 (pretty beat up) in my auto-x region and have fallen in love with that car. I like the idea of the early 911 styling with a four cylinder. I think the 911 shape up to the 993 generation are just so classy. There's a nice 912 I might take a look at but I need to know if I'll be walking into a car that will not compete well in auto-x. I know the 914 is a proven auto-x winner, but what about the 912 in HS or FSP? I just love the 912 and the extra power is nice but I don't want something I'd have to pour much money into and not have it at the level of a stock 914.

[MattR]

I have both... so i'll chime in.

The 914: I havent driven mine, only driven others and worked on mine, but its a solid car thats very fun to drive. It handles well and has power. Easy to work on (except a valve adjust), parts are relatively cheap, and it has the right idea as far as engine layout and center of gravity.

The 912: its a classic porsche. Its a blast to drive, its power band is peaky (which makes it a reasonable driver, but no fun up to 3.5k). Parts are expensive, engines are tough to come by, and by getting a 912 you fall in the 911 catagory, so the upgrades cost on par with guys why spend big bucks on early cars.

Im selling the 912. Its great to drive, but when Im done I'll have a 914 thats been gone through 100% by me versus an unknown (albiet strong) 912. Honestly, I dont think you can go wrong with either. Get in both and get your impression.