A 1974 Porsche 914 has been transformed into a dramatically more powerful machine, trading its modest factory output for a 430-horsepower LS3 V8 crate engine and a comprehensive series of mechanical and structural upgrades.
Originally developed as a joint project between Porsche and Volkswagen, the 914 debuted as a lightweight, mid-engined sports car aimed at broadening Porsche’s lineup. While early four-cylinder versions produced as little as 80 horsepower and even the range-topping 914/6 delivered 110 horsepower, the platform’s low curb weight and balanced chassis made it a capable handler. More than 118,000 examples were produced between 1969 and 1976, with strong sales in the United States helping sustain Porsche through the 1970s.
This example has been comprehensively rebuilt following its purchase in 2022. The body was stripped to bare metal, repaired as needed, and fitted with steel fender flares before being refinished in Marathon Blue Metallic, including the removable targa top.
Installed in 2024, the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 features a Holley Hi-Ram EFI intake, stainless-steel headers, and Renegade Hybrids mounting hardware. Cooling is managed by a front-mounted radiator with dual electric fans. The trunk houses the engine’s wiring, control unit, and an Alpine amplifier, while welded structural reinforcements tie into the shock towers to increase chassis rigidity.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 986 Boxster S six-speed manual transaxle paired with a Wavetrac limited-slip differential and a Wilwood clutch master cylinder. Suspension upgrades include Bilstein coilovers, an Elephant Racing torsion bar delete kit, and 911-spec steering and front-end components. Braking is handled by 996-specification big brakes.
The car rides on staggered 17-inch Fuchs-style wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich G-Force tires. Inside, black and tan leather bucket seats, a roll bar, Numeric Racing shifter, Momo steering wheel and AutoMeter digital instrumentation complete the build. The odometer shows 275 miles since completion, and the car is offered at no reserve with a clean California title.
Via Bring a Trailer
