The 912 E was introduced as a cost-effective alternative to Porsche’s 911 models. Priced at around $10,500, it was significantly cheaper than the 911’s $15,000 price tag. However, the tradeoff for the lower price was a less powerful engine, producing only 90 horsepower. The engine was initially developed by Volkswagen and used in the VW 411 and 412 models before being adapted for use in the 912 E. The car was equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission and used the Bosch K-Jetronic fuel system, while the 911 had already adopted the MFI system. Despite the less powerful engine, the 912 E was still fuel-efficient, able to run at around 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres.
Critics praised the 912 E for its combination of classic Porsche styling and unique silhouette, as well as its balanced handling, making it a practical car. The car’s design featured clean lines, a long hood, and rounded headlights, creating a timeless look that was considered attractive from every angle. The 2.0-liter air-cooled flat-four rear-mounted engine gave the car a distinct handling character that was praised for its balance and predictability, proving that a car doesn’t need a lot of power to be fun.
Unfortunately, over time, the 912 E has been unfairly dismissed as a cheap and less-powerful knockoff of the 911, when it was never intended to be a replacement for it. However, this is a disservice to the unique character and value of the 912 E. With its badge clearly stating ‘912 E’, it’s an honest car that does more with what it has than the 911 could with what it didn’t. From its timeless Porsche design to its engine, the 912 E is a truly unique car that deserves more recognition. But perhaps the real problem lies with our society’s tendency to judge and compare everything to an impossible standard.
Driving the 912 E is not just about the car itself, but also about the larger societal pressures and expectations that we face. In a world that often values power and status above all else, it’s easy to dismiss the 912 E as a lesser car because of its lower horsepower and price point. But this attitude ignores the unique value and character of the car, which is not defined by its similarity to the 911 or any other car for that matter.
Instead, the 912 E is a reminder that we don’t need to conform to societal expectations or follow the crowd in order to find joy and satisfaction. By embracing the individuality and honesty of the car, we can reject the idea that we need the newest or most expensive things in order to be happy
This is a lesson that applies not just to cars, but to all aspects of our lives. By learning to appreciate the value of the things we have, rather than constantly striving for more or trying to meet impossible standards, we can find greater happiness and fulfilment. The 912 E may not be the most powerful or prestigious car out there, but it has a unique character and charm that is all its own. And by driving it, we can learn to embrace our own individuality and find joy in the things that make us truly happy.