1968 Porsche 912
Four-cylinder thoroughbred
Words and photos: Paul Knight
Original feature: Ultra VW
Back in the November 2016 issue of Ultra VW we ran a feature on a ’43 Kübelwagen belonging to long-time VW enthusiast, Phil Jarvis, in which we mentioned that he was also a fan of classic Porsche vehicles... Well, here’s the story on his latest project – a show-stopping Porsche 912!
As VW fans, the Porsche 912 early 911s have rocketed, hence the 912 is perhaps more appealing than it may be to some more hardcore Porschephiles. What I mean is that the 4-cylinder, Porsche 356-derived motor is visually quite similar to the trusty VW flat 4 we know and love. OK, very few parts are actually interchangeable with the VW Type 1 motor, but the air-cooled Flat 4 motors are based on the same basic design principles. Therefore, it’s perhaps less ‘scary’ than the Porsche-designed 6-cylinder 911 models for those looking to step up from a classic VW to tinker with a classic Porsche model.
Of course, there was a time when the 912 was overlooked, as collectors favoured the 6-cylinder 911 models, however in recent times, the values of early 911s have rocketed, hence the 912 seemed a more affordable alternative to those looking to take a step on to the Porsche ownership ladder. That said, the values of even the trusty 912 have boomed, too – in fact, really nice examples now exceed £80k (although projects can still be picked up for £10k).
For some though, the 912 is held in very high esteem – the model has always had a strong fan base, and there’s a good reason for this... the 912 is a great little car! In fact, back in the first few years of production, the 4-cylinder 912 actually outsold the 911 by quite a margin, and it almost always received rave reviews in motoring titles of the era.
There are some tat might baulk at the thought of just 90bhp in a sports coupe, but these are the people that have yet to enjoy the fluid driving experience of a good 912! The engine was essentially the same unit that powered the last of the Porsche 356 Super 90 models, and a good motor not only sounds great (thanks to throaty Solex 40PII carburettors and a raspy exhaust note), but is also a silky- smooth powerhouse in such a lightweight and micely balanced car. Remember, these SWB (short wheelbase) cars can feel a little tail-heavy and twitchy with a powerful and heavy 6-cylinder hanging out of the back, hence the revvy-1600cc 4-cylinder 912s are often noted as feeling more nimble and better balanced. We’re not claiming that a 912 is a match for a modern day sports car, however it is a real blast to drive in a spirited fashion on B-roads and across country!
This particular 1968 model has been meticulously restored by Phil Jarvis and is, in our opinion, one of the best examples in the UK. Of course, it hasn’t always looked this good... when Phil picked it up from his good friend Steve Walker, it was roughly painted red and in need of some TLC. In fact, the initial plan was actually just to make the California-import roadworthy and enjoy it as a budget ride. But, as Phil started to tear it down to tackle some essential repairs, he soon realised that it was actually a really nice little car.
However, it was only after he’d had a bad experience with some cheap paint that he decided to get serious, hence the car was shipped to renowned VW painter, Andy Finch of Spikes Vintage Restorations. With the help of his friend, Paul Lippett, Phil stripped much of the car, thereby saving a little on the labour charges etc. The car needed only four small patches of welding (none of which being more than an inch or two in size) and, once stripped back to bare metal, Andy was impressed to see just how original (and straight) the panels were.
“What followed was exactly what Spikes Vintage Restoration’s is famed for – a show-quality paint job. The process included epoxy primer, high-build primer, lots and lots of block sanding, more primer and then a few coats of Porsche Blutorange, which is sealed with several clear coats. And, having looked over this car closely, we’ve got to admit, the paintwork is just about as faultless as can be – it’s gorgeous!”
But, as we’re sure you well know, a perfect body shell is just part of the equation, hence Phil now had his work cut out for him to ensure that every seal, clip and all the little details were up to scratch and correct. To this end, he sent the interior trim to Anthony Ward at Dubholstery, who made a superb job of re-trimming the seats and fixing up the soft furnishings. He also made a fab job of repairing and overhauling the original door cards, which are unique for this particular year of production as they feature a shorter door pocket.
Black carpets and a white headliner make up for a truly smart package, and, having sat inside this car, we can report that it’s ‘just right’ in every way. Nothing after market or incorrect, just lots of period style. and that lovely four-spoke steering wheel... it’s a lovely place to be!
Phil went on to tackle the mechanical side of things and soon had the suspension re-assembled and detailed OE-style and the transmission re-fitted out back. However, when it came to the engine, he had an ace up his sleeve in the shape of a ‘ready-to-fit’ 1720cc motor he’d bought from EBay. In fact, the motor was actually sold by Karmann Konnection in Essex, and Phil knew the guys well, hence he trusted them fully with this purchase. Incidentally, KK also supplied a number of other parts for the car, as this is exactly the sort of project they specialise in!
The good news is that the motor fired right up on the first attempt and, thanks to the big-bore piston kit (a fairly common upgrade on these 1600cc motors), it’s got a little extra pep when Phil puts the pedal to the metal. As you’ll see in the photos, the engine is perfectly restored with all the correct parts and even the right decals fitted to parts such as the coil and the bypass oil filter mounted on the silver fan housing. It’s almost a shame to have to close the engine lid on this ’twelve!
The exterior was completed with restored or NOS trim etc., and it’s great to see that even the rear lenses are in great shape, as these are often faded and cracked on so many otherwise-great cars.
The eagle-eyed Porsche fans amongst you will have noticed that the steel wheels are no more, and that Phil has opted to fit a set of 14x5.5-in Fuchs, instead. The original anodized finish has been stripped, and the wheels have been painstakingly hand-polished, then detailed in black by Phil’s buddy, Bazz Adams. Sure, it’s one of the few ‘non-stock’ touches on the car, but they look superb, and we’re sure that the VW fans reading this feature would almost certainly have done exactly the same.
We’d almost forgotten how cool a good Porsche 912 could be... yep, this is exactly the sort of car we dream about owning! In closing, Phil mentioned that he may consider lowering the car a little, which might upset the purists but, just as long as it doesn’t spoil the superb handling of this classic ride, then we’re all for it.
Words and photos: Paul Knight
Feature originally published in Ultra VW