This Porsche 912 Is Fully Committed

“That car isn’t just me, it’s all the people I’ve interacted with to get to this place,” says John Benton. “I bought this car at 23 years old, I didn’t have all the answers…My car is the result of all those little journeys, here and there…”
Now, John has his own shop that caters to classic Porsches, but it’s really about how he got to this point-a journey happened in his beloved 912.
“I’ve heard people say that my car is me. You know, when they see it, when they drive in it, they’re like, ‘Man this car’s you, it’s so obvious’,” he says. “That wasn’t my intent, but it’s neat to hear from people-even strangers-you know, ‘you built this car, it’s so obvious’,” he says.
His car had been found, driven, taken apart, repaired, restored, and loved over his many years of ownership, and the 912 really was his companion. “It was my daily driver…and weekend race car…” with modifications to suit both. Now, its heart is a “Very high-revving, twin-spark 1.7-litre, fuel injected 616 motor…” but to list off specs would do a disservice to Benton’s passion for these machines.
“Everything I know put into a car…” he says. The only thing missing is his friend and former business partner, John Coffee, who died earlier this year…but not before completing his opus, a Datsun 240Z prepared for the Peking-To-Paris Rally. “John just hit a home run,” says Benton “…it’s his legacy.”
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[@bethjohnston8975]

I bought my 912 when I was 19 in 1969 . I still have it .

[@chilinsnOball]

you're awesome.

[@andrewclark4116]

gytguu., ,,

[@adamlambert8527]

Legend

[@leanmeangreenbeanmachine3347]

X to doubt

[@jvincent1446]

I wish I was so lucky, and smart. Cheers!

[@DJLeeland]

I just want to take a moment and talk to the man behind this channel. I don't know who you are, but you have an amazing talent. I've been watching your videos for at least 2 years now, But I think this this video may take the cake in your work. As a designer and photographer myself, I can appreciate all the work you put into it and all the behind the scenes work staring at a computer screen for hours on end, Trimming video, editing the lighting and colors, editing the voice overs, watching the same video over and over again only to see how your minor changes look different in the bigger picture of the entire video. And that doesn't even include all the work you put into the video before shooting! People won't even realize just how amazing it is the fact that the guy was talking about his childhood in a VW bug... And you made a flashback scene! Just.. Wow! Your videos are so gorgeous and your hard work pays off so well! Thank you for your amazing channel! I hope I can meet you one day.

[@Valkyr]

🎥✌🏼️

[@district5rookie]

+1

[@Musicblender]

agree. This video deserves an award

[@Kooldood.]

definitley agree this video is piece of art

[@elliotnewton7646]

Couldn't of said it any better. As a photographer and aspiring videographer I watch videos like this all the time, but this one really stopped me in my tracks. The shots of the kid in the beetle combined with the music and voiceover genuinely gave me goosebumps. It takes me hours and hours of work to produce 2/3 minute videos of cars for my work, so I can't even imagine the process behind this, but what a feeling of achievement it must be once it's live. Seriously incredible work guys, best one yet.

[@RollYourRock]

Can a KZbin video be nominated for an Academy Award? One of the best yet... thx

[@JJ_ExMachina]

+RollYourRock Sort of, once a year KZbin runs an award event that people submit their choice of video in certain categories and the ones with the most votes gets awarded the trophy. Here is the wiki link about the awards and how it works: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KZbin_Awards Now the problem is; what category do you place this video in. Inspirational, Automotive, Commentary, Series... there is just so many it works so well for.

[@Valkyr]

👍🏼😋

[@PFNasz]

FUCKING AWESOME!!

[@djhero0071]

Fucking every single one OF COURSE!!!!!

[@juxtaposeism]

how does the word "fucking" connect to the content of that video??? jeez

[@Andrew-on5do]

This is easily the most underrated channel on KZbin.

[@MrNickpress]

provides quality for those who know

[@maxjelley4055]

Ikr, how can shmee150 get millions of views, if ur a petrolhead this is the place

[@flatbread8709]

An look at them now, nearly a million.

[@Andrew-on5do]

@@flatbread8709 and they suck now hahah. 4 years later.

[@brianbelton3605]

In 1974, i was 15, My first car was a 1967 porsche 912, I was 15, this car needed lotsa TLC. I was able to fix it, with my best friend, mike, and Mike was a brilliant engineer (also 15 at that time) Mike could fix anything, even at 15. Sadly, my best friend passed this year. Mike was the best friend I could ever wish for. This porsche was just one of our fun projects. We then found a sunbeam tiger. Thankfully is still in his family. I miss you Micheal I will miss you forever. Thank you for all you have done for me.

[@SeattleGooby]

My jaw dropped as I realized who this was about, I recognized the Benton name, but never put a face to it. When John Coffey came into view, I had to take a moment. His passing hit me hard, he was always helpful and direct. He will be missed. Thanks Petrolicious for capturing some of his last moments in a truly fitting manner!

[@JHLee47]

Absolutely love that "flashback" scene after the intro. It lends a charming and relatable vibe to the narrator's nostalgic tales.

[@oprikawize]

I love how you created his childhood scene, well done

[@BertineFamily]

I have a similar memory... I'm maybe five years old, I'm in the back seat of my uncles 911 and we're driving down Valencia St., between 20th and 16th. Aunt Jan looks concerned, but Uncle Tommy has a huge grin as he zigs and zags through traffic. 50 years later this experience is hard-coded into my memory. Literally, my most vivid memory.

[@petarvalev7560]

This channel is the reason why cars are way more than just an object. For some people it is a way of life! Thank You

[@ThatMumboJumbo]

As someone who has been toying with the idea of a 912 (literally browsing classifieds right now) This is the perfect video for me.

[@lauritsboesrensen269]

Porsches are amazing, plz get one (you have c63 right?)

[@Valkyr]

I'm sure John could hook you up!

[@alexduffield1971]

Go for it! Don't be another KSI or Tmartn. Have something interesting that you connect with and not just something that shows that you have a thick wallet.

[@alexwakefield1878]

#TRUTH

[@13THPR0PH37]

Yep. Love them. It's a dream for me.

[@JulsBurns]

Pure art. I watched this when it was first posted, and I find myself rewatching it fairly often. This video inspired me so much I wanted to try my best to make a vehicle that represents me. Right now I’m building a 1979 Honda XL500s into a tasteful scrambler, I would love to be featured on this channel to share my build and what it means to me.

[@DeltaSniperZRR]

Oh man that opening scene, amazing! Awesome 50s/60s vibe. You guys should do that more, filming at night with those neon lights all around.

[@mattadrev471]

That Z is so legendary already.....def helped bring up the prices of ALL older Z's.

[@griffinlast864]

Whenever I watch these videos I get all torn up and overwhelmed with happiness. These videos are works of art that hit home, absolutely stunning work.

[@gothops154]

I'm almost positive that Dakar 240z was on The Smoking Tire. So cool to see its back story

[@alfyqq]

I have an old 911, but seeing this video, I am falling in love with the 912! Love the video!! Thanks!

[@JJ_ExMachina]

+Petrolicious It is amazing when you see someone with the same connection to vehicles that you hope you have. I think this is one of the best videos that has been done on this channel to date. The cinematography is outstanding, the story, and the vehicles are wonderful. More please, and thank you for all the time it took to do this video. I have seen first hand how much work and effort goes in to getting just one of the stylized shots used in this video. Then this video is completely chocked full of them, it just mind blowing the time that was spent on this video, just to pop it out for the viewers to watch for free!

[@cardoso1999]

This is so good, the quality of the video, the relationship between owner and car, the stories, the traditional sunset ligth in the car, the philosophical speech... Thank you so much! Great work!

[@mhandsco]

Best ever? Zig-zag narrative, on point builder and +1 Porsche 912. Nothing but love for this.

[@bartbutkis]

I recently found this channel and simply love it when a new video is offered up on my KZbin feed. I especially found this particular video to be magical. Although I don't understand all the mechanical nuances running throughout, I was entranced with the connection that Mr Benton has with his work and what it means to him. Pretty damn glorious.

[@kukko83]

There is always something to love about your videos, whether it's just the car, the owner and or builder, the scenery, the story, or the artistic and technical aspects of the videos themselves. I feel like this one had a lot of those elements all together. I really enjoy this channel, please keep it up.

[@Nihaofoo]

This is one of my favorite videos of this channel. Great car and great passion for what he does. Something we're all looking for

[@greg1268]

Petrolicious, I think I've said this to you before but I'm saying it again, your videos are beautiful! Almost spiritual, I love them. Top notch videos for top notch vehicles. Keep it up!

[@DooganReginald]

Living in Texas, the Benton team has been beyond helpful answering my (annoying) questions as I restore my 912. Very thankful for their work and the knowledge they happily share.

[@alexduffield1971]

This channel needs more subs. God, I love these videos.

[@qdying4373]

im trying to translate these videos to chinese. im not a native speaker, so i may not translate every words correctly ... hope someone can help me...

[@emmanuelofori6521]

Glad the termination did not put you down.You are now living with your passion and that is my dream to have my kind of workshop here to do things i love to do with cars.

[@big_ben_1776]

I love the passion in all the videos you guys do. Absolutely incredible

[@smallpaulissmall5582]

This was one of my favourite episodes in quite a while! From the cinematography of the childhood scene, to how the subject never sat down and spoke to the camera, but instead remained somewhat mysterious which put the focus on the vehicles.. this episode is a cut above!

[@saifkazi1587]

The video ended and I'm just sitting here sitting...as the sunlight falls right on my shoulders making me realize how beautiful life can be painted, with a mix of passion, enthusiasm and love...to find happiness in others happiness. The idea so smoothly conveyed through the medium of cinematography and machines. Beautifully crafted, like a monument with centuries-old geometry.

[@Malteser3535]

This is a piece of art. Starting with a near-perfect car with the perfect (translated) "my12" plate combined with awesome camera angles. Did anybody notice the skyline reflecting in the speedo? A job well done to the producer(s)!.

[@edwinheintjes9285]

1st I thought "ugh.. another 911/912 story?".... But wow, nice car, great man, nice story.

[@tangerinedream8987]

Beautiful. Just.. superb. Someone who loves Porsches as much as I do. Is amazing. And he's a mechanic too.

[@erinhoover6621]

This is your one video I relate to the most❤️❤️❤️ this was so beautiful to watch. Executed SO flawlessly with his story.

[@AUDIDOIT]

Beautiful filming and story. Really enjoyed this and could connect to what John was saying. Breathtaking film.

[@0616ko]

I have watched this video multiple times over the past year. One of my favorite of all KZbin videos. Thank you.

[@willowdaleproductions2919]

I signed into youtube just to say that this was an incredible production, i enjoyed every second and it made me want to be a better person.

[@jasonren666]

man i watched this to check out a 912 and got a great story as a bonus

[@evanyates1079]

I could watch Petrolicious vids ALL DAY. Nice job as usual.

[@nerdherd2604]

This is the kind of love that makes me wanna do my best for my Zs. My 280zx is almost done; it's been a hell of a journey.

[@arodbkny]

Oh my! This is the best cars channel anywhere! The words in this video got me all misty eyed- it’s so personal and emotional. It made me think when I was a kid loving sports cars at a young age.

[@adammarkowitz7944]

How could anyone give this video a thumbs down? Well done, sir.

[@georgiamcdermott5140]

Although many others say this, your videos really are amazing and inspiring!

[@cliffwalden4038]

I've always wanted an old 912, but I never got around to getting one. Unfortunately, with current values, that boat has sailed for me. So I live vicariously through videos like this one.

[@rikcannon8351]

This is definitely a great video one of my favorites for sure. It’s hard to find people that have a passion for the cars and the talent to make them what they are. I would seriously consider having these guys build me a car!

[@thorandmoljnir]

Wow, you guys just keep topping yourselves with these videos.Amazing...

[@SF_Native]

This is hands down my favorite car channel. Amazing work.

[@califguy100]

This short film was one of the best I have ever seen and conveyed your message. You are a very lucky man!

[@erikhertzer8434]

Excellent minidoc and sublime video production quality...shows the timeless and simple beauty of the forgotten 912.

[@sergeantluz]

I can't believe just how good this video was.

[@himura357]

It is also my dream to one day own a restoration shop and also give customers their dream cars. Great video.

[@ItsMikeArre]

Can't help to think Magnus Walker was all over this guys shoulder guiding him into the right direction with his 912

[@marcosgonzalez7607]

Thats what I was thinking. 😂

[@eeterp32]

you have to be kidding.

[@ItsMikeArre]

+Pennywise please if any1 farts Porsche in Los Angeles Magnus is all over it

[@Digitalstar3]

Yeah, when I saw the Irish green 911 I was like "Yeah I think I know who's that "supportive person""

[@billcahill7649]

Magnus is not a mechanic in any sense of the word. Magnus is just a rich guy who likes porsches and had other people build it for him. John Benton is the real deal, if anything paved the way for Magnus.

[@OhMyKMPR]

Finally an American who pronounces Porsche right!

[@topdeckdog]

Who cares?! Dialects, pronunciation and accents vary culture to culture, continent to continent. I don't doubt that your Mandarin sucks.

[@corychecketts]

I came for the car and left with a philosophy lesson. Awesome video.

[@BigAL_Visuals]

i am here for a short while, im trying to make a world that makes sense to me, that i enjoy living in. And i believe that sharing what i know and sharing what other people know makes for a better life experience whatever were talking about... this man has so much passion

[@kathleenbergeron1292]

This reminds me of a short few paragraphs I read in a big coffee table book on convertibles, maybe twenty years ago. The book had two or three pages each of several noteworthy convertibles, from Caddies to Zagatos. There was a piece on BugEye Sprites, and the few paragraphs I recall mentioned a guy in L.A. who rebuilt that particular car. Nothing else. The description of the guy, his commitment to his craft, and his satisfaction with who and what he was seemed so zen-like. I've never forgotten those few sentences, although I've had no success finding that book again. But, as I said, this video and the man it describes reminded me of that mechanic all over again. The world is a much better place with folks like that in it.

[@robertamoyaw8812]

When he said "we lost John............ You could tell this man has a huge heart, for anyone or anything in this business. God bless him

[@BrettsGarage]

I bought my 69' 912 about 8 years ago. I did a lot of work to it and used the inspiration of Magnus and Benton for it. I still have a long way to go and wondered what it would cost for him to make it perfect and a daily, fun, driver.

[@DavidRKuhn-vf4pi]

Another inspirational video! Hopes, dreams, attitude, raw talent honed by time and tribulations. This world needs more of theses attitudes. On spot again. I watched it twice and am not a Porsche fan but, this man and his team gets the life=art= function= expression. A nod and a smile ,WELL DONE period

[@natfas6641]

I'm now in the process to restore to original a 1966 912 white Porsche, and this video really pump me, nicely done, I hope I can drive mine soon.

[@cbone1135]

What's the color code for the White Porsche used for you 1966 912?

[@johnybrokeit]

This is one of the most beautiful car stories i have ever experienced. And especially this gentleman, John Benton, his words are so peaceful and inspiring and absolutely beautiful; my favorite part of the film. How did he do it, the shop, the cars, especially the connect with so many car enthusiasts that is now part of his car (this one i love the most), ..and while having to provide for his family; the pressure of obligation; huge respect for overcoming and dealing with it all. The take-away for Me from Mr. John's words is to reach out to others who know a bit more than you, to help with your project, and to be sharing. Its so beautiful that its all for the sake of our beautiful machines. I get it!! : ) Legend. This is the best part of a project. I have been rebuilding a small little motorcycle called the Yamaha RX-135 custom the way i want to see it (here in India). But its been lying in my apartment all spread out for over 2 years now. I get scared when I see electricals. I will reach out! And this is a beautiful homage to Mr. John Coffee. Much respect! Petrolicious, a masterpiece : ) Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@MarineCorpSc2]

this channel gives me goosebumps every single time.

[@VisualSOLUTIONSMedia]

The production and post production are, as always, superb. But what's extra special is the subject. His story, his articulation of it, his passion are priceless. What would I have done differently? More natsound of the engine/exhaust. Otherwise, perfect.

[@ifrit35]

What I really like about this channel is that the videos are focused on how an individual feels about his car or his motorcycle and everything else is irrelevant. I wish there were more channel like this as opposed to all that are centered on numbers.

[@sacooper802]

this is number one car show that really shows the connection and mystique and mostly passion of man and machine, an award winning show that should be exposed to a broader spectrum of viewers , a show that non gear heads would enjoy as well its so tastefully done.

[@alexherceg9496]

Can we agree this car is called a “nine-one-two”.. not a “nice-twelve”, like every other Porsche. Glad you can do what you like and enjoy yourself and your 911!

[@gizmothewytchdoktor1049]

john feels about his 912 as i do about my xjs. nigel is not there to make others approve of my automotive hobby and the love of it(although its a rare day at a petrol station when someone doesn't have a kind word or comment to offer). it is about how i feel behind the wheel and the way nigel (and yes,i named him ;-)talks to me. we fit together and that is a rare occurrence in my experience. if you own and work on your ride you get to know every little quirk...every little nuance that the car has to offer. it's knowing that when you turn the key and he comes to life and offers the song that only it can sing(v12s make a glorious sound) do you awake to the moment of comfort and satisfaction that very few things in life have to offer. a spirited drive on a twisty back road allows both of us a chance to breathe and for a moment forget about all that has been of concern or frustration. this video catches that and i am glad that someone else can experience a similar response. enjoy the days we are given for they almost always seem to be so few. =dok=

[@76ajc]

You guys absolutely killed it. Hands down, best video you’ve done. Thank you.

[@StevenJeNova]

Wow! Again, a beautiful video, with awesome cars & awesome people. Couldn't be better. Thanks.

[@1DarkBaron]

I love this guys outlook...and his respect for John Coffey, and the way he expresses it, tells me all I need to know. You, John Benton, and your Porsche, are both awesome in my book.

[@stevetorr4956]

I just introduced my mate to this channel. The look on his face when he was scrolling through the videos was priceless.

[@petercooper1060]

I understand and have had the same experience, I wish it were possible to experience that same feeling of discovering a Porsche at the age of sixteen in 1966

[@uncommonplaces]

Agree with the statement below.....the video and story telling work on this channel is so inspiring. This one video tops them all. Thanks and may you keep on putting out such great content.

[@behindeachfilmgrain]

Amazing and beautiful machine’s! I’m a pro graphic designer/photographer and I can appreciate your passion and desire to create art that makes every one that has watched and listen to your experience you have gained over the years you have gained! Thank you for sharing with us all a small portion of you!

[@josephabdo6664]

Mr. Benton is a winner I just learned rhat 2019 his shop burned down and i believe he lost his beloved 912E, and he faced adversity with a positive narraitive in the face if so much strife….I wonder how he is doing today. a Good man, Hope he is doing well💪

[@AD-kg6yp]

Amazing to see a man growing up together with its car. They definitely have a soul now, one for two.

[@18echosf]

What an incredible video and overall story.........I absolutely loved it. I hope to meet John Benton one of these days and just says “Thanks” for helping to keep the dream of Porsche alive and well.

[@BlackBarnSocialClub]

This is what feeling a video is like.

[@10ampsloblo21]

wowy that vw brings back memories my 1st car was a 59 vw I owned 8 of them over time.

[@GrandpaSStudio]

Amazing work! Amazing car! Amazing shots! Really nice to watch :) Waiting for next one :D

[@BixenteDelBosque]

You got my like one more time. Truly beautiful work guys, thank you so much, this is touching.

[@whateverrrrrr123]

I am moved that he mentioned his partner....your future will be bright my friend. You can feel that WE for him is important then anything.

[@priceoffreedom9030]

Saw a picture of this particular car in the October issue of Road and Track. It looks incredibly beautiful!

[@ldhorricks]

How do yo find the time to make beautiful vignettes like this. The cinematography, editing, production value is just astounding. Beyond the filmmaking skill which is clearly apparent in these little-big films, there must be a an incredible investment in time. I've worked my entire adult life i the motion picture industry and I have to say this is top-shelf production value and creative. I can't believe I just now discovered this site, being a professional photographer, longtime film worker and classic car owner.

[@tonyboughman8050]

Wonderful production quality. Loved the remembrance of the VW. Thought-provoking narrative. Thanks to all!

[@bombakdik]

Lovely words and very very nice episode. What he says about how things can rapidly evolve when you get to know people at meetings who can help you, it’s just spot on! I find myself in that totally!

[@SHOGUNNAUTO946]

I dont own a porsche or anything close to that but these videos make me really appreciate and value the old mitsubishi I have. thank you for this. watched it many times over

[@hugh-johnfleming289]

I adored mine. It looked like crap but everything underneath was built for driving. One of two cars I wish I still had.

[@ZenDude65]

WOW, that was a great video. The 912 owner was awesome and the videos producer was also awesome. Good job guys.

[@michaellenheiser3157]

Not only is the video fantastic, but the Gentlemen in the video is a great steward of the brand and also a great individual.

[@uweheinrich6784]

Just love this video....I have seen it many times but always watch it again. I hope to meet you at the Coffee and Cars in Glendale...1919 Verdugo..one of these days...

[@Siper2]

This was absolutely fantastic, mesmerizing and inspirational. Marvelous story! My man, I would love to buy a car from you one of these days.

[@Vampirebear13]

There just are not enough thumbs up to give this video!!!! FANTASTIC!!!!!!

[@stevebuscemi1006]

absolutely amazing

[@stevebuscemi1006]

***** yup

[@stevebuscemi1006]

***** something to do innit

[@stevebuscemi1006]

***** CarThrottle, like facebool for cars

[@stevebuscemi1006]

Facebook*

[@stevegodon2975]

Did you ever own a car like this one? Steve from Montreal

[@MikeyCh09]

Had the same feeling buying my first Porsche to restore. That feeling of ‘Yes, this is the car.”

[@linengreyghost5378]

Thank you Mr. Benton for getting "IT" and sharing "IT".

[@jennifer.juniper4845]

Brilliant video and I admire your philosophy hope you’re able to maintain it. The 912 is beautiful

[@christiancormier7847]

Really nice story! Beautiful 912

[@jasoncarpp7742]

Beautiful looking Porsche. I've always loved these old-school Porsche 911s and 912s.

[@UncleBeefRecords]

I can't get enough of that car

[@Alan-N]

Beautiful in every way , thank you 👍🇬🇧