Visionary as ever, Porsche had become aware that the then newly introduced Porsche 911, with its more powerful six-cylinder powerplant, was the company’s sole product and was concerned that the considerable price increase of the 911 over the 356 could cost the company sales and narrow its brand appeal.

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In 1963, therefore, Porsche executives decided to introduce a new four-cylinder entry-level model based on the 911. A conclusion was arrived at to tailor the 356’s 1.6-liter Type 616 engine. This would be at the core of what became the Porsche 912.

Styling, performance, quality construction, reliability, and price made the 912 an extremely attractive buy for both new and old customers, and the Porsche 912 substantially outsold the 911 during the first few years of production. Porsche produced nearly 30,000 912 coupé units and about 2500 912 Targa body style models during a five-year manufacturing run.

Surely the most desirable spec of the 912 was the long-wheelbase version that was manufactured only in the final year of production, in 1969. To improve handling without penalizing the ride, the rear wheels of the long-wheelbase version were moved back by 2.5 inches, with no change in overall vehicle length. Another distinctive body change for the 1969 model was the addition of wider wheel flares added to the side of the body, which could accommodate wheels as wide as 6 inches.

These developments are all evident on the 1969 Porsche 912 Coupe 5-Speed featured with matching numbers that we presently have for sale at Beverly Hills Car Club, finished in its factory color Sand Beige (6807) exterior perfectly complemented by a Cinammon interior.

Representing Porsche’s final production year of the original 912 before the model was temporarily discontinued (1976 912E), this coupe combines the classic early Porsche design language with the improved drivability of the longer-wheelbase chassis introduced for the 1969 model year.

Powered by a 1.6-liter flat-four engine paired with Weber dual carburetors, this 912 delivers optimal power delivery and lightweight handling characteristics that distinguish the model from its six-cylinder counterpart. The 5-speed manual transaxle allows drivers to fully enjoy the car’s responsive nature, while four-wheel disc brakes provide confident stopping capability.

The exterior retains the clean and timeless styling that defines the early Porsche lineup. With that Sand Beige finish, the body is accented by chrome trim, chrome hubcaps with Porsche crests, rear rubber bumper guards, and a single-exit exhaust with a chrome tip. Additional details include a driver-side Durant-style mirror, pop-out rear quarter windows, and 15-inch steel wheels that complement the understated appearance of the car.

Inside, the Cinnamon interior presents a warm and period-correct atmosphere. The cabin features low-back bucket seats with adjustable headrests, rear jump seats, 4-spoke steering wheel and 5-gauge VDO instrument cluster. Additional interior appointments include an analog clock, door pockets, manual crank windows, and a period-correct Blaupunkt radio paired with a fender-mounted antenna, all contributing to the authentic late-1960s’ Porsche driving experience.

One interesting fact about the 912 is that – as I suggested – its lighter four-cylinder engine gives the car a more balanced weight distribution than the contemporary 911, making it particularly well-regarded for its nimble road manners and predictable handling.

As the final-year example of the original 912 series, this Long-Wheelbase coupe represents an appealing combination of classic styling and improved chassis refinement. Whether added to a Porsche collection or enjoyed as a vintage sports car, this Porsche 912 remains a rewarding and approachable air-cooled Porsche that is mechanically sound.

Boasting a classic and iconic design that has captivated aficionados for decades, this 912 is a great find that has been cherished by the same owner since 1989, showcasing a remarkable history of long-term ownership.

In 1966, when the 912 launched, Road & Track magazine was most impressed.

‘The 912E will obviously find favor with those who prefer a slightly more practical and tractable Porsche,’ it wrote. ‘It’s a car with almost all the sporting virtues of the more expensive 911S, yet its simpler pushrod 4-cylinder engine should make for better fuel economy and less expensive maintenance than the 911’s six…The fittings are simpler in this model although in terms of materials, trim and finishing the 912E is of high Porsche quality.’

Road and Track also loved the Porsche 912’s 11.3-seconds 0-60 mph time and 115-mph top speed.

The 912’s high-efficiency boxer engine, low drag, and low weight allow it to get up to 30 miles per US gallon (7.8 L/100 km; 36 mpg‑imp).

As I said, sales of the 912 initially outpaced the 911, boosting the manufacturer’s total production until success of the 911 was assured.

-Alex Manos, Owner