1970 Porsche 914-6

The love child of a torrid relationship between Porsche and Volkswagen, the 914 had the credentials to become a very effective sports car. Lightweight (under 1,000 kilos), mid-engined, independent suspension, 45% -55% weight distribution and a 5-speed gearbox, it should have been up there with the best. Launched in 1969, Volkswagen elected to install a 79 bhp derivative of their ubiquitous flat-four engine, meaning the very effective chassis could not be fully exploited. Porsche, however, upped the ante by installing their flat-six boxer engine from the 911T which raised the power to 110 bhp. Christened the 914-6, it was now possible to take advantage of the cars great balance and delicate handling, but at a cost. With a price very close to its half-sister, the 911, there were few takers for this often overlooked Porsche/Volkswagen hybrid. It proved its mettle in GT racing with a class win at Le Mans in 1970 but it wasn't enough to boost sales and production of the 914-6 came to an end in 1973 with little more than 3,300 being built.

Supplied in 1970 by renowned Parisian Porsche dealership, Sonauto, (responsible for developing the above-mentioned Le Mans winning 914-6 GT), this Adriatic Blue Vo-Po benefits from a dealer uprated engine producing 160 bhp and is currently fitted with a close ratio gearbox and sports exhaust making HUI 9146 more than capable of leaving similarly aged 911s trailing in its wake. Imported by the current custodian in 2000, this unrestored car has benefitted from being dry-stored and apparently only ever used on dry days, avoiding the fate of many 914s and 914-6s; the dreaded tin-worm. Rare features such as a short rear view mirror, collapsible handbrake and even the 'Master and Valet' black and red keys point towards a car that has led a cossetted life during its 47 years. Supplied with its standard gearbox, silencer and some suspension components (to enable a return to originality), this rare mid-engined 70s Porsche/Volkswagen comes with an MoT valid until May next year and is currently showing 55,000 kms. The seller has indicated that the registration number will be included in the sale.