In 1963 Porsche executives decided to introduce a new four-cylinder entry-level model.

In production form, the Type 912 combined a 911 chassis / bodyshell with the 1.6L, four-cylinder, push-rod Type 616/36 engine, with a lower compression ratio and new Solex carburetors.

Compared to the 911, the resulting production Type 912 vehicle demonstrated superior weight distribution, handling, and range.

To bring 912 pricing close to the 356, Porsche also deleted some features standard on the 911.

On April 5, 1965 Porsche officially began production of the 912 coupé.

Styling, performance, quality construction, reliability, and price made the 912 a very attractive buy to both new and old customers, and it substantially outsold the 911 during the first few years of production.

Porsche produced nearly 30,000 912 coupés and about 2500 912 Targas, during a five-year manufacturing run.

Production of the Targa, complete with removable roof and heavy transparent plastic rear windows openable wit...