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.

1968

New safety regulations in the United States certainly had an influence of the modifications made in 1968.  New safety features included: reshaped door handles with recessed buttons, black matt windscreen wipers to reduce risk of glare, optional belt fastening in the boot, larger Durant side-view mirrors, rubber covers on ash tray handles, control knobs and door cranks, composite glass windscreen with increased strength, glare-free two-piece reflection-free dashboard allowing massive deformation in an accident, halogen lamped Hella 128 fog lights, wider wheel rims (1/2 inch), dual circuit braking system, uncovered headlights with larger chrome rings, white-on-black faced gauges, a anti-glare break-away windshield mirror mounted to the window frame, vent locks, attachment points for rear seat belts.  In the U.S. reflective side markers were mandatory.  U.S. emissions requirements including vacuum advance distributor, air pump, and split-shaft Solex carbs.  A larger generator (420 watt) charged the battery faster. 

Mid-year, the hard-window Targa becomes standard, and the soft-window optional.  Wider rims (5 1/2") giving enlarged tire contact, optional Fuchs 5 1/2" x 15" alloy "windmill" wheels.