Red Porsches have become fairly ubiquitous on the second-hand market due primarily to their popularity in the ’80s and, to a lesser extent, the ’90s, but that popularity has not always been the case. And judging by their lack of prevalence among newer models, we may see their presence gradually wane over time. Among the earliest models they remain somewhat rare, yet they can be incredibly striking. Such is the case with the car here, a Polo Red 1968 Porsche 912, located in Indiana, with a reported 88,800 miles on it. I remain a huge fan of the 912 in general. These were the simpler, 4-cylinder, entry-level counterparts to the 911 that eventually were phased out when Porsche introduced the 911T as its lowest-cost offering. For a long time now the 912 has made for an excellent alternative to the 911 for those seeking a vintage driver for lower cost, but who still desired that 911 shape. That said, as prices for good models increase they do become a more difficult proposition. We’re still at a point where the best examples of the 912 only begin to reach the prices of a decent 911T, so we are not yet dealing with equal levels of condition, but given more time we may see an increased convergence of the market for these two entry-level Porsches.
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1968 Porsche 912 on eBay
Year: 1968
Model: 912
Engine: 1.6 liter flat-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 88,800 mi
Price: $41,500 Buy It Now
This is a beautiful, original, matching numbers, California car, in wonderful condition. 5 speed/5 gauge. 89K documented miles. Huge binder of records through the years. Very straight body, with original floor pans, lowered suspension, and polished Fuchs. Period correct Recaros. Interior floor has been stripped to bare metal, and sealed with 3 coats of POR-15, lined with Dynamat, and finished off with new carpet (approx. 2 years ago). The Solex carbs were rebuilt by Vorderman Motor Works of Fort Wayne, IN. The valves were adjusted, and new throttle linkage was installed at that point, as well. Recent plugs, and oil just changed in June, 2015, as well. Complete recent tune up, with all new Bosch parts. New Continental tires, and new premium battery. Runs and drives fabulously. Resprayed approx. 15 years ago, but still looks and shines very nice. I’ve owned half a dozen 912s, and this one blows them, and any other I’ve driven, out of the water.
Faults:
*One bubbled area inside driver’s door jam (see pics). This is the ONLY known area of corrosion.
*Few small paint flaws that could be addressed: driver’s rear fender, star on hood, and decklid spots.
*Small dash cracks
*May need new Bowden tube, for ease in and out of first gear, on occasion.
*Generator light has started to occasionally come on.
*Star on windshield. Out of line of sight, and has never grown or expanded.
As stated, while this car is not perfect, it’s as nice a 912 as I’ve encountered. It simply runs and drives flawlessly, and almost as you’d have expected in 1968. Only 88,000 pampered and loved miles, over 47 years, with much of it’s history documented.
I encourage all potential buyers to come inspect the car in person prior to buying or bidding. Your bid is a binding contract. Feel free to call me with any questions or for more information. Car condition is subjective. I have owned over 100 Porsches, and am picky about my cars, but potential owners should decide for themselves if this car is for them. Car is sold AS IS, WHERE IS. Transportation is ultimately the responsibility of the buyer. International bidders are welcome, but please have U.S. funds and transportation arranged prior to auctions end. Zero or negative feedback bidders please contact me prior to bidding or your bid may be cancelled. Please only bid or offer if you are serious. Finally, feel free to email or call me at 574-361-5315 with any questions, more details, or if you’d like to make an offer. Good luck!
This 912 sounds like it is more mechanically sound than it is aesthetically. The exterior looks pretty good, and that wonderful Polo Red paint shows well, though there are a few issues noted that need to be addressed. The interior is more of a mixed bag. The Recaro seats seem nice, but as non-original items it’s not clear that buyers will appreciate them at this price point. Add to that a cracked dash, which while not uncommon still will need to be addressed, and you’re left with some needed work for a 912 with a high asking price. For those looking for a 912 as a driver these issues may be of little concern and solid mechanicals have a certain value on their own, but I’m not sure the driver market is prepared to pay $40K+ at this time. It’s a wonderful looking example that we don’t come across too often. With some work, or just a lower price, it should provide excellent thrills.
-Rob
