912 & 912E Differences Between Years - "Which Year is Best?"

Over the six years of manufacture, the factory was constantly updating the 912.  Owners could also create a unique 912 by specifying numerous options offered.  Following are numerous changes in the evolution of the 912/912E (click for a table of original specifications or a list of 912 books).  Features should be considered individually; an original car may not have all the features listed in a yearly group.

1965

The original short wheel base (SWB) 912.  Self-supporting bodywork with front independent suspension on transverse links and damper struts, stabilizers, longitudinal torsion bars, rear independent suspension on lateral links and transverse torsion bars.  "Safety Steering" jointed steering mechanism with three short column links (including one angled intermediate shaft) connected to a rack and pinion box.  4 cylinder boxer, 1582cc, compression 9.3:1, output 90 DIN (102 SAE) hp/5800 rpm.   Pushrods and rocker arms.  Cogwheel camshaft drive.   Forged crankshaft with 4 main bearings, pressure lubrication.  Mechanical fuel pump, 2 double downdraft Solex carburetors.  Glass covered headlights, sealed turn signal units, chrome or painted 4 1/2" x 15" steel wheels with caps, four-wheel disc brakes, Nadella half-shafts, 356-style aluminum bumper and rocker trim, small round Durant side mirror, silver wiper arms, angles 912 script, operable vent windows, green-on-black faced three gauge instrument cluster, 356-style painted dash matching exterior (on very early cars), 356-style unmarked shift knob, 356-style map pockets full length of doors, rubber floor mats front and rear, heater control forward of gearshift, white sun visors.  1964-1965 model year paint colors and codes (usually 64xx pattern) also used for 356 and 911 models.

About 6,400 912s were produced during calendar year 1965, with less than 1000 definitively 1965 model year cars.  Those construction from September on were typically considered 1966 model year cars (usually but not always with paint codes 66xx).  Factory options: five-speed racing pattern transaxle, hillclimb gears, right-hand drive (see right), five gauge instrument cluster, chrome bumper guards, three-point seat belts, 356-style roll headrests bolting onto rear of seatback, Hella 128 fog lights, rear window wiper, sunroof, luggage straps, wood-rim steering wheel, special colors.