Twinspool

Hi there, I have a nice '86 951 that I love, but I've been thinking about a 914-6 for use as a daily driver and the occasional DE event.. Would it be a mistake to try and switch from my beloved turbo car with it's brembo goodness and wonderful boosted torque to a 914?

I've never had the opportunity to drive one so please give me the pros and cons with respect to the car I have now...

951 good: powerful, leather, AC, attractive styling, I'm pleased with the handling but again, I haven't driven a 914.
951 bad: have to smog it, turbo runs HOT, heavier than a 914, has a water pump...

what else?

hitbyastick

I drove my dads 88 944 turbo s a few times, and usually drive the 914. Compared to a 944 the 914 would seem primitive. I lose the tight feel of the 914 though. A 6 would be a good base to build up on. You can make 6 pretty damn quick, and the handling with its mid engined goodness is awesome. For daily driving, I'd pick a 944 over the 914, because 914s (at least mine) are really stiff, but can take any turn because it is so light. Best way to find out is to go and drive a couple of 914s and see what you like better.

slomarsh

The two cars are as different as nite and day, yet the driver can appreciate the family pedigree in each. I'm lucky to have both and enjoy each for different reasons.
The 951 is a great freeway flyer and comfortable long distance traveller. It inspires great confidence with its stability and quietness. You probably will agree.
The 914/6 gives the driver a feeling similiar to a race prepared 911. The driver can easily imagine being at the wheel of a 917 when the 911 engine behind your back hits 6k on the tach. The six is a ball to toss around on slower speed roads-the more curves the better. It is lower than a 911 and has better visibility further enhancing the race car feeling. I enjoy the six around town and 'Sunday drives" but don't often take it on long freeway drives because it is somewhat tiring after a couple hours at steady speeds.
Maintenence is strongly in favor of the 914/6 with the exception of rust prevention. They are simple cars with few ammenities to break down.
Best of luck

slomarsh

Hello again Twinspool. I forgot your interest in DE events. Both cars are excellent. As you might imagine the 914/6 is a killer autocross car. The 951 is a hopeless second.
However, on a regular road course like Willow Springs the 951's will usually run circles around any six with less than a 3.6 engine.
Also, it is rare to see a 951 spin. Lose a 914 and they spin like a top!
hope this helps.....slomarsh