914-4 Restomod Reveal

Delivery Day Spotlight: The Ultimate 1973 Porsche 914-4 Restomod

As we kick off 2026 with a bang, we're thrilled to reveal one of our most meticulously crafted builds yet, a full restomod of a 1973 Porsche 914-4, resplendent in Alaska Blue Metallic. This isn't just a restoration; it's a symphony of customer dreams, fusing modern engineering fused with classic Porsche soul. From the heart-pounding PMB 2.3 powerplant to bespoke interior touches that scream sophistication, this 914 is ready for it's new owner. Join us as we peel back the layers of this masterpiece, answering the burning question: What does a PMB build look like when it's primed for delivery?

The Heart of the Beast: Power and Precision

At the core of this 914 lies our custom PMB 2.3 powerplant, delivering a seamless 160 horsepower through an advanced electronically controlled fuel injection system. Gone are the days of finicky starts – this setup ensures instant ignition and optimal fueling across every RPM range. The custom dual-outlet exhaust system exits through mirrored factory valence openings, paired with SSI heat exchangers that preserve the full functionality of the stock HVAC system. It's power you can feel, with reliability you can trust.

Drivetrain Precision: Masterfully Restored Side-Shift Transmission and Rennshift Mastery

No PMB restomod is complete without transforming the often-overlooked shifting experience into something sublime. This 1973 914 features a masterfully restored side-shift transmission – the classic Type 901 unit, fully rebuilt with precision tolerances, fresh synchro’s, and bearings for buttery-smooth operation that feels modern yet retains that authentic Porsche mechanical feedback. Every shift is crisp, positive, and engaging, elevating the driving experience from good to exceptional.

To take it further, we've installed our signature Rennshift shift console – a high-performance upgrade designed specifically for side-shift 914s. This precision-machined unit shortens throws, eliminates slop, and delivers a direct, race-inspired feel right at your fingertips. The custom Rennshift lever (already highlighted in the interior accents with its matching yellow theme) mates perfectly to the console, creating a cockpit command center that's as tactile as it is beautiful.

Underpinning this setup is our CFR spherical firewall bushing and lower linkage kit – a game-changing upgrade over factory rubber components. The spherical bearings at the firewall pivot point and lower linkage eliminate flex, bind, and vague feel, providing razor-sharp response and zero lost motion. Shifts snap into gear with confidence, whether you're carving mountain roads or blasting down the highway. This isn't just an upgrade; it's the final link that makes the entire drivetrain feel alive and connected.

Combined with the 160HP PMB powerplant and aggressive tire setup, this transmission and shifter ensemble turns every drive into a precision event – exactly what a PMB build delivers.

Front and Center: The Stealthy Oil Cooler Innovation

Starting up front, we've engineered a completely custom metal-fabricated oil cooler shroud that exemplifies PMB's attention to detail. This isn't off-the-shelf; it's handcrafted to retain the original late-model 914-4 spare tire strengthening supports while incorporating beading that mirrors the factory metalwork down to the finest ridge. Housing our PMB Performance 908-style oil cooler, it keeps engine temperatures in check even under duress. For a stealthy aesthetic, only the lower valance is subtly notched – no bulky additions here. Imagine the airflow efficiency: cool air funneled precisely, with the shroud's contours blending seamlessly into the body's lines, enhancing both form and function. This upgrade transforms the front end from standard to sublime, ensuring your drives stay cool and composed.

Handling Mastery: Suspension and Wheels

True to the 914's agile heritage, we've complemented the stock spring rates and rubber bushings with fresh Bilstein shocks on all four corners for that perfect balance of comfort and control. But the real gamechanger? Our wheel and tire setup: Maxilite "Deep 6" fronts and "7R" rears, fitted with an aggressive 215 front and 225 rear grip combo. This narrow-bodied 914 handles like nothing else we've piloted – corners carve with precision, and straight-line stability is unmatched. It's the kind of setup that turns every twisty road into your personal playground.

 Rear Revival: From Ruin to Radiance

The rear of this 914 tells a story of redemption. Originally, the trunk was utterly destroyed by a previous owner's hack-job AC condenser installation – think crude cuts, mangled panels, and haphazard mounting that left the metal warped and weakened. Holes drilled without care, brackets welded poorly, and overall structural integrity compromised; it was a nightmare that screamed "amateur hour." At PMB, we didn't just patch it – we fully restored it to pristine condition, erasing every trace of the botched mod. Now, it's flawless, with smooth lines and factory-fresh strength.

Adding to the wow factor, we scanned the body and factory rear taillight housings to create our exclusive 914 version of the iconic 911R taillights. Each housing was 3D printed for precision fit, then painted to match the Alaska Blue Metallic perfectly. The result? A stunning, modern tribute that glows with heritage while looking like a true one-off.

Inside the Cabin: A Deep Dive into Luxury and Legacy

Step inside, and the interior elevates this 914 to art-on-wheels status. These custom seats feature a bold plaid theme that extends elegantly to the dash, creating a cohesive, eye-catching motif. The French-stitched dash and custom center console pad – themed with Alaska Blue stitching – add subtle yet luxurious touches, with the pad providing ergonomic comfort for long hauls. We've gone further with painted interior longitudinals and the rear firewall in a matching hue, tying the space together visually and structurally. The missing back pad area, often overlooked, has been reimagined with a custom automotive finish that rivals the exterior giving passengers (and the driver) a refined backdrop.

More custom elements shine through: hand-made German Square weave mats with blue leather binding for that authentic grip underfoot, and the AchtungKraft yellow door pulls that pop against the blue. The custom door handles harmonize with the Prototipo steering wheel and custom Rennshift lever, blending color, texture, and style into a cockpit that's as functional as it is fabulous. Every stitch, every hue, every material choice was deliberate – turning the interior from basic to bespoke, where classic Porsche minimalism meets modern flair.

The Final Test: 500 Miles of Perfection

Before any PMB build is presented to it's owner, we put it through the paces: 500 miles across two 250-mile loops blending desert straights and mountain switchbacks. This real-world mapping fine-tunes the EFI system to the car's unique personality, ensuring everything is fully sorted. No gremlins, no surprises – just pure driving joy from day one.

So, what does a PMB car look like when it's ready for final delivery? This 914 embodies it: a blend of innovation, restoration, and passion. If this sparks your interest, hit us up on Instagram or Facebook or DM us at 801-304-3141 for YOUR custom build. Stay tuned for more reveals, and drive safe!

Let us build one for you! – The PMB Performance Team