The Porsche 912, produced from 1965 to 1969, was an entry-level sports car that offered an affordable alternative to its more expensive sibling, the Porsche 911. While the 911 featured a six-cylinder engine, the 912 came equipped with a four-cylinder engine, making it popular among Porsche enthusiasts who valued agility and fuel efficiency. When it came to transmission options, the Porsche 912 offered a range of choices to suit different driving preferences.
1. Four-Speed Manual Transmission:
The standard transmission offered on the Porsche 912 was a four-speed manual gearbox. This transmission was popular among purists who enjoyed the engaging and interactive driving experience. The manual gearbox allowed drivers to have full control over the power output and shift through gears as per their preference, with precise and satisfying gear changes.
2. Five-Speed Manual Transmission:
In 1968, Porsche introduced a new option for the Porsche 912 – a five-speed manual transmission. The addition of an extra gear allowed for a wider spread between gear ratios, which improved the car’s performance and drivability. This transmission option provided a more refined driving experience, with enhanced acceleration and easier cruising on highways.
3. Sportomatic Transmission:
For those who preferred an automatic transmission, Porsche offered the Sportomatic as an optional extra. Introduced in 1967, the Sportomatic was a semi-automatic transmission that combined the ease of an automatic with the control of a manual transmission. It featured a torque converter and a conventional clutch, allowing drivers to manually select gears without the need to operate a clutch pedal. This transmission offered smooth and effortless shifting, making it a popular choice for urban driving or those wanting a more relaxed driving experience.
4. Tiptronic Transmission:
Towards the end of the 912’s production run, Porsche introduced the advanced Tiptronic transmission as an option. This transmission, initially introduced in the Porsche 911, offered a blend of manual and automatic operation. With the Tiptronic transmission, drivers could choose to drive in automatic mode, allowing the car to shift gears on its own, or switch to manual mode and shift gears manually using buttons or paddle shifters located on the steering wheel.
In conclusion, the Porsche 912 provided a variety of transmission options, ensuring that buyers had choices to match their driving preferences. From the classic and engaging four-speed manual to the advanced technology of the Tiptronic transmission, the 912 offered versatility and options for all types of drivers. Whether one preferred a more interactive driving experience or the convenience of an automatic, the Porsche 912 had a transmission option to suit every taste.