Have You Ever Owned An Entry Level Porsche?
About this episode
Exploring the world of entry-level Porsches, this episode dives into the history and significance of models like the 356, 912, 914, 924, 944, and the Boxster. The hosts, including veteran Porsche salesman Michael Maurer, discuss how these models were received, their collectability, and how they shaped the brand's legacy. With anecdotes about personal experiences and insights into market trends, the conversation highlights the evolution of Porsche's entry-level offerings and their impact on enthusiasts today.
Join us for Episode 199 where we welcome Mike Maurer who sold new Porsches for over 30 years. We are chatting about Porsche’s past entry level cars. How they came to be, did Porsche enthusiasts accept them, what did the media think and how are they regarded now. It’s an informative episode that will have you thinking back to a car or two you may have owned.
Porsche Macan
"So I'm waiting. I bought the set of wheels for the Macan. They're on the car."
The Porsche Macan is a small luxury SUV that offers a mix of sporty driving and comfort. It's known for its stylish design and good performance.
The Porsche Macan is a compact luxury crossover SUV that combines sporty performance with everyday practicality. It features a range of powerful engines and a well-appointed interior, making it popular among enthusiasts and families alike.
Porsche Cayenne
"And so, I mounted the winter tires on the Cayenne. And I will say, have you ever experienced where the..."
The Porsche Cayenne is a high-end SUV that offers a mix of sporty driving and the ability to handle rough terrain.
The Porsche Cayenne is a luxury SUV known for its performance and versatility, combining sports car handling with off-road capability.
tire pressure
"I went around and checked the tire pressure on them to make sure that they were correct. And the next morning..."
Tire pressure is how much air is inside your tires. It's important to keep it at the right level for safe driving and better gas mileage.
Tire pressure refers to the amount of air in a tire, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). Proper tire pressure is crucial for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.
valve stems
"...I always ask for new valve stems, which has a new core and stuff like that. So anyways, I also, I also, I didn't get to go to the new member party..."
Valve stems are little parts on your tires that let air in and out. If they get old, they might not work well, which can cause tire problems.
Valve stems are components of a tire that allow air to enter and exit. They are crucial for maintaining proper tire pressure and can wear out over time, especially in older wheels.
oil return tubes
"...turn my oil return tubes around. And I'm happy to report that after one week, and they are not leaking and all went well. This is good..."
Oil return tubes are pipes that carry oil back to the engine after it has been used. If they leak, it can cause a lot of oil to spill out, which is not good for the car.
Oil return tubes are components that help channel oil back to the engine's oil pan after it has circulated through the engine. Proper functioning of these tubes is essential to prevent oil leaks and ensure adequate lubrication.
Porsche 911
"...nd the sad part is there was a BMW underneath the 911 that collected some of that oil on the rear trun..."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that has been around since the 1960s. It's known for being fast and stylish, and many people admire it for its performance and history.
The Porsche 911 is an iconic sports car known for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout. Since its introduction in 1964, it has become a symbol of performance and luxury, often discussed for its engineering excellence and motorsport heritage.
Porsche Cayman
"...he news was that Porsche is going to be building Cayman and Boxster ICE engines. Right. And so Porsche ha..."
Porsche Boxster
"the news was that Porsche is going to be building Cayman and Boxster ICE engines."
The Porsche Boxster is a small sports car that has a convertible roof, meaning you can drive it with the top down. It's designed to be very fun to drive.
The Porsche Boxster is a two-seat convertible sports car that combines performance with open-top driving. It shares many components with the Cayman and is known for its agility.
ICE engines
"the news was that Porsche is going to be building Cayman and Boxster ICE engines."
ICE engines are the traditional type of car engines that run on gasoline or diesel. They create power by burning fuel inside the engine.
ICE stands for Internal Combustion Engine, which refers to engines that burn fuel to create power, as opposed to electric motors. This technology has been the standard for automobiles for over a century.
Porsche RS Spyder
"Porsche has announced that officially they will bring back the GT4 RS and the RS Spyder."
The Porsche RS Spyder is a special racing car made by Porsche that is designed to be very fast and perform well in races.
The Porsche RS Spyder is a racing car that has competed in various sports car racing series. It is known for its lightweight design and advanced aerodynamics, making it highly competitive on the track.
hybrid system
"the rumor is, and I think Damon had a good observation that will probably be a hybrid system."
A hybrid system is a type of car engine that uses both gas and electricity to run. This helps the car save fuel and be better for the environment.
A hybrid system combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology is becoming increasingly popular in modern vehicles.
Nürburgring
"...including you guys are testing at the Nuber ring, you know, nothing about that."
The Nürburgring is a well-known race track in Germany where many car manufacturers test their vehicles. It's famous for being very difficult and is often used to see how fast cars can go.
The Nürburgring is a famous racetrack in Germany, known for its challenging layout and is often used for testing high-performance cars. It has become a benchmark for automotive performance and handling.
Porsche 356
"...let's go deep, deep, deep into our past back to 1956 and talk about the 356. But even in 1954, actually. 54. 54 is the first one. Oh, 58 was the last year..."
The Porsche 356 is a classic car made by the German company Porsche. It was popular in the 1950s and is known for being lightweight and good for racing.
The Porsche 356 was the first production automobile from Porsche, introduced in 1948 and produced until 1965. It is known for its lightweight design and rear-engine layout, which contributed to its success in racing and as a sports car.
Porsche Speedster
"...there was only about a 10% price differential, base price, between the Speedster and a 356A coupe..."
The Porsche Speedster is a lightweight version of the Porsche 356, known for its sporty look and feel. It's a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts.
The Porsche Speedster is a variant of the 356 model, characterized by its lightweight design and sporty aesthetics. It was popular for its performance and is highly sought after by collectors today.
MG
"...you would compare an MG..."
MG is a car brand from Britain that makes sporty cars. They were popular a long time ago for being fun to drive and not too expensive.
MG is a British automotive brand known for producing affordable sports cars, particularly popular in the mid-20th century. Their cars are characterized by their classic styling and spirited performance.
Volkswagen Beetle
"in 57, the Volkswagen Beetle was $1400. And that $2800. That's double the price."
The Volkswagen Beetle is a small car that has a unique round shape. It was very popular in the past and is known for being affordable and reliable.
The Volkswagen Beetle is a classic compact car that became an icon of the 1960s. Known for its distinctive rounded shape and rear-engine layout, it was one of the best-selling cars of all time.
numbers matching
"like a pretty good deal too. That's a non numbers matching probably for $250,000. That's a good driver."
'Numbers matching' means the car's engine and parts are the same ones that originally came with it. This is important for collectors because it can make the car worth more money.
'Numbers matching' refers to a vehicle where the engine and other key components have their original serial numbers, matching those on the vehicle's title and documentation. This is often important for collectors as it can significantly affect a car's value.
bucket seats
"...the car came with standard bucket seats, which some people didn't find comfortable..."
'Bucket seats' are specially shaped car seats that hold you in place better than regular flat seats. They are often used in sports cars.
'Bucket seats' are individual seats that are contoured to hold the occupant in place, often found in sports cars and performance vehicles. They typically provide better lateral support than traditional bench seats.
headrests
"...the headrests were optional for the passenger or the driver. Sometimes the driver just gets a headrest."
'Headrests' are the parts of the car seats that support your head. They help keep you safe in case of an accident by preventing your head from moving too far back.
'Headrests' are safety features in cars designed to support the head and neck during a collision. They help prevent whiplash injuries by limiting the backward movement of the head.
Porsche 912
"...he's like, oh, it's a 912. I'm like, oh, okay..."
The Porsche 912 is a less powerful version of the 911, made by Porsche. It has a four-cylinder engine, which makes it cheaper and more accessible for buyers.
The Porsche 912 is a variant of the 911 that was produced from 1965 to 1969. It features a four-cylinder engine, making it more affordable than the six-cylinder 911.
901
"Well, they were developing with the 901 actually was called the 902. Because they knew that the pricing of the 911 was going to alienate a lot of the 256 customers."
The 901 was the original name for what we now call the Porsche 911. Porsche had to change the name because another car company already owned the rights to names that had a '0' in the middle.
The Porsche 901 was the original designation for the Porsche 911 before it was changed due to a trademark dispute with Peugeot, which had rights to the '0' in the three-digit naming convention. The 911 became the iconic model known today.
detuned engine
"...it has a detuned engine. It's slower than a 911 and the 356 people probably..."
A detuned engine is an engine that has been changed to make it less powerful than it could be. This is sometimes done to save fuel or to make the car easier for more people to drive.
A detuned engine is one that has been modified to produce less power than its original design. This can be done for various reasons, including improving fuel efficiency or making the car more accessible to a wider audience.
affordability issue
"...the affordability issue is a big part of that. Take a 912, 45, $4,600, same 911 was $5,700..."
The affordability issue is about how much a car costs and whether people can afford to buy it. The Porsche 912 was made to be cheaper than the 911 so more people could buy it.
The affordability issue refers to the challenge of pricing a car within a range that is accessible to potential buyers. In the context of the Porsche 912, it was designed to be a more affordable option compared to the 911.
356 engines
"...production of the 356, the SC. So we've got, hmm, we can use these four bangers and we can put them into a car..."
The 356 engines are the engines that were used in an older Porsche model called the 356. They were reliable and helped keep costs lower when making the 912.
The 356 engines refer to the powertrains used in the Porsche 356, an earlier model produced by Porsche. These engines were known for their reliability and performance, and they were utilized in the 912 to keep production costs down.
flat-six engine
"although it didn't have that extra power that the flat six had."
A flat-six engine is a type of engine that has six cylinders laid out flat instead of standing up. This helps the car handle better because it keeps the weight lower.
A flat-six engine is a type of engine configuration where six cylinders are arranged horizontally, allowing for a lower center of gravity and better handling characteristics. This design is famously used in many Porsche models, including the 911.
Bring Your Trailer
"Damon just threw up August 10th auction on Bring Your Trailer, $65,925 speed, $75,000..."
Bring Your Trailer is a website where people can buy and sell classic cars through auctions. It's popular for finding special cars.
Bring A Trailer is an online auction platform specializing in classic and enthusiast vehicles. It allows sellers to list their cars for auction while providing a platform for buyers to find unique vehicles.
AMCO
"That was a very popular AMCO, AMCO made those because the license plate and the rear valence was so subject to being bumped into."
AMCO is a company that makes parts for cars, especially older ones. They create things like bumpers to help protect the car.
AMCO is an aftermarket company known for producing accessories for classic cars, including bumpers and license plate holders. Their products are popular among car enthusiasts looking to enhance or protect their vehicles.
wheelbase
"And are 912s, do they have the difference in wheelbases? Same thing. Same body? Same wheelbases."
Wheelbase is the distance between the front and back wheels of a car. It can change how the car drives and how much space is inside.
Wheelbase refers to the distance between the front and rear axles of a vehicle. It affects the car's stability, handling, and interior space. A longer wheelbase generally provides a smoother ride.
Toyota Mr2S
"...hink about it. But for a while there, we had like MR2s that were mid-engine, FIATs and what on. But bac..."
The Toyota MR2 is a small sports car that has its engine in the middle, which makes it handle really well. It's known for being fun to drive and is often cheaper than other sports cars.
The Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine sports car produced from 1984 to 2007, celebrated for its agile handling and sporty performance. It offers a unique driving experience and is often discussed for its affordability and fun factor in the sports car segment.
Porsche 917
"... it was a little like the Mura you had to get, or 917, or the 914. So for the 914 to be a mid-engine a..."
The Porsche 917 is a famous race car from the 1970s that is known for being very fast and winning many races. It's considered one of the best race cars ever made.
The Porsche 917 is a legendary race car that dominated endurance racing in the early 1970s, known for its powerful engine and aerodynamic design. It played a significant role in establishing Porsche's reputation in motorsport and is often discussed for its engineering innovations and racing success.
Volkswagen Bus
"in their buses. So you can imagine, you think of it now, you'r..."
The Volkswagen Bus is a classic van that many people love because of its unique shape and roomy interior. It's often associated with road trips and fun adventures.
The Volkswagen Bus, also known as the VW Type 2, is a classic van that became an icon of the 1960s counterculture. Its spacious interior and distinctive design have made it a beloved vehicle for families and road trippers alike.
Fiat X19
"A front-engine car, a rear-wheel drive. Yeah, the Fiat X1/9. X14, was it? X19."
The Fiat X1/9 is a small sports car made by Fiat that has the engine located in the middle of the car, which helps it handle better on the road.
The Fiat X1/9 is a two-seat sports car produced by Fiat from 1972 to 1989. It features a mid-engine layout, which contributes to its handling characteristics.
Fiat 124 Spyder
"The 124, I think. 124 Spyder. Yeah, a Spyder."
The Fiat 124 Spyder is a convertible car made by Fiat that is fun to drive and has a stylish look.
The Fiat 124 Spyder is a convertible sports car produced by Fiat from 1966 to 1985. It is known for its stylish design and enjoyable driving experience.
Datsun 240Z
"When every road test that I saw, including the Datsun 240Z, Porsche would come on top."
The Datsun 240Z is a classic sports car that was made by Datsun. It's known for being fast and stylish, and it was cheaper than many European sports cars.
The Datsun 240Z is a sports car produced by Datsun from 1969 to 1973. It is celebrated for its performance, sleek design, and affordability compared to European sports cars.
Porsche 914S
"...very desirable. They would end up making 119,000 914s. Across all of its years? From 70 to 76. The 912 ..."
The Porsche 914 is a two-seater sports car made in the 1970s that has a unique look and is fun to drive. It's considered a more affordable option for those wanting a Porsche experience.
The Porsche 914 is a mid-engine sports car produced from 1970 to 1976, known for its unique design and affordability compared to other Porsche models. It has gained a cult following due to its fun driving dynamics and is often celebrated for its role in making sports cars more accessible.
Honda Civic
"...nto these cars for that. That's less than a Honda Civic. Obviously, you know, not necessarily the best d..."
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people trust because it's reliable and gets good gas mileage. It's a popular choice for those looking for a practical vehicle.
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has been a staple in the automotive market since the 1970s, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It's often discussed as a benchmark for affordable and dependable transportation.
Porsche 944
"...d that is the transactional cars, the 924 and the 944. Will we celebrate 928? And 928. 928 is not an e..."
The Porsche 944 is a sporty car made in the 1980s and early 1990s that is known for being fun to drive. It's often seen as a more affordable way to enjoy the Porsche brand.
The Porsche 944 is a sports car produced from 1982 to 1991, known for its balanced handling and affordability compared to other Porsche models. It features a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and has become a favorite among enthusiasts for its performance and practicality.
Porsche 928
"...nal cars, the 924 and the 944. Will we celebrate 928? And 928. 928 is not an entry level car, but 924 ..."
The Porsche 928 is a fancy sports car made from the late 1970s to the mid-1990s. It has a different engine layout than most Porsches, making it comfortable for longer drives.
The Porsche 928 is a luxury sports car produced from 1978 to 1995, notable for its front-engine layout and grand touring capabilities. It was designed to appeal to a broader audience than the traditional 911 and is recognized for its unique blend of performance and comfort.
Porsche 924S
"...t of money. Yeah. But they the fate that a lot of 924s and 944s ended up and that's so good. Like they ..."
The Porsche 924 is a sports car made from the late 1970s to the late 1980s that is easier to buy than many other Porsches. It's known for being fun to drive and not too expensive.
The Porsche 924 is a sports car produced from 1976 to 1988, known for its front-engine layout and being one of the more affordable entry points into the Porsche brand. It has been praised for its handling and is often discussed as a classic that offers good value for enthusiasts.
Toyota Corolla
"...kidding me? Like you can't buy a used clapped out Corolla for $7,100. You can't afford not to buy that. I ..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that is very popular because it's cheap to buy and run. Many people like it because it lasts a long time without many problems.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars in history, known for its reliability, affordability, and fuel efficiency. It has been a popular choice for drivers seeking a dependable and economical vehicle since its introduction in 1966.
Porsche Carrera Gtr
"...ut it had the Porsche had already raised the 924 Carrera GTR. So that had the wide wings, the wide flares, and..."
The Porsche Carrera GT is a very fast and expensive sports car made in the early 2000s. It's known for its amazing looks and powerful engine, making it a dream car for many.
The Porsche Carrera GT is a high-performance supercar produced from 2004 to 2007, known for its stunning design and powerful V10 engine. It is often discussed for its engineering excellence and status as a modern classic in the automotive world.
Porsche 550 Spyder
"...Yeah, just a few things, but they kept that same 550 Spyder type inspiration. It was Grant Larson, I think on..."
The Porsche 550 Spyder is a small, lightweight sports car from the 1950s that is known for being very fast and stylish. It's famous partly because a movie star owned one.
The Porsche 550 Spyder is a lightweight sports car produced in the 1950s, famous for its racing pedigree and association with actor James Dean. It is celebrated for its design and performance, making it a highly sought-after classic car.
Ford Excursions
"...ach time we come to port, we've got some special excursions awaiting you. So we have more days to see with th..."
The Ford Excursion is a really big SUV made in the early 2000s that can carry a lot of people and tow heavy things. It's great for those who need a tough vehicle for big jobs.
The Ford Excursion is a large SUV produced from 2000 to 2005, known for its massive size and towing capacity. It is often discussed for its utility and capability, particularly among those needing a vehicle for heavy-duty tasks.
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