Why the Porsche 912 Patrol Car is Japan's Most Unique Police Vehicle

When you think of iconic police cars, names like Ford Crown Victoria or Dodge Charger might spring to mind. However, in Japan, the unique and stunning Porsche 912 has taken on this role, creating a fascinating blend of high-speed performance and law enforcement. Between 1968 and 1974, this remarkable vehicle roamed Japan’s expressways, ensuring that order was maintained on the country’s meticulously engineered roadways. In this article, we explore the captivating story of the last surviving Porsche 912 patrol car, now owned by Takahiro-san, and dive into the rich history behind it.

The Expressways of Japan: A Marvel of Engineering

Japan’s expressways are not just routes for quick travel; they are a testament to outstanding engineering, winding through mountains, valleys, and stunning coastal vistas. Over 73 percent of Japanese terrain is mountainous, which makes the development of long, straight highways appear almost impossible. Yet, the nation’s impressive civil engineering accomplishments have birthed beautifully designed expressways that cut through the heart of its dramatic landscape.

Imagine cruising along these picturesque roads while being monitored by law enforcement—an intriguing concept that adds to the allure of driving in Japan. From the sleek curves of the Tomei Expressway connecting Tokyo and Nagoya to scenic routes showcasing breathtaking views, these highways invite adventure but equally demand safety. This need for management on the road lays the groundwork for the iconic Porsche 912 patrol vehicle.

The Birth of the Porsche 912 Patrol Car

The advent of Japan's expressway system in 1963 brought along exciting opportunities for motorists but also necessitated effective oversight by law enforcement. Acknowledging the importance of speed and reliability in a police vehicle, Japan turned to renowned vehicle manufacturers and ultimately selected the Porsche 912 for its patrol duties on the country’s fast-paced highways.

With a lightweight body, aerodynamically smooth design, and a gutsy 1.6L flat-four engine, the 912 was selected for its balance of performance and practicality. While comparison with the more powerful Porsche 911 might beg a detailed analysis, the 912 offered greater reliability and fuel efficiency—making it a one-of-a-kind police vehicle. In fact, MIZWA, the dealership responsible for importing Porsches into Japan, provided four such models for expressway patrol.

Porsche 912 in Action: A Legacy of Law Enforcement

The Porsche 912 was stationed on the Tomei Expressway, one of Japan's major highways, patrolling the route from Tokyo to Kanagawa Prefecture. Over just six years of service, it racked up impressive mileage—clocking 155,943 km (96,800 miles). During its tenure, the 912 made headlines not just for its unique police lineage but also for chasing down speedsters, including a memorable high-speed pursuit of a suspect traveling at 178 km/h (111 mph).

Despite its success, as the years passed, newer and faster vehicles emerged on Japan’s roads, leading to the gradual phase-out of the Porsche 912 patrol cars. By the early 1970s, scarcity of parts and skilled technicians to maintain them added urgency to their retirement. The oil crisis of 1973 further strained their utility, leading to the last patrol of the 912 in 1974, after which new homegrown models like the Nissan Silvia took the spotlight in law enforcement.

A Collector’s Gem: Preserving the Legacy

The remaining 912 patrol cars were not simply scrapped but repurposed for public admiration, becoming artifacts of a fascinating police story admired by schoolchildren on educational trips over the years. Nevertheless, as public budgets tightened, many of these historical vehicles met the scrapyard. However, the story of Takahiro-san is a heartwarming one, as he fought to preserve this piece of automotive history.

After a six-month negotiation with a scrapyard, Takahiro-san managed to save one of the last surviving 912 patrol cars. With persistence, determination, and love for automobiles, he successfully registered it in the United States before finally bringing it back to Japan. Today, this Porsche 912 stands not just as a car but as a living testament to the innovation of Japan's expressway system and law enforcement history.

Conclusion: A Unique Intersection of History and Automotive Art

The Porsche 912 patrol car highlights a rare intersection of law enforcement and automotive design. As Takahiro-san takes this car on its unofficial patrol, he doesn’t just keep a piece of history alive but also pays homage to a bygone era of Japanese road culture. This unique vehicle, once tasked with maintaining order, now serves as a delightful bridge connecting the past with the modern-day enthusiast community.