The 1976 912?
 

Was this powered by a V.W. Type 4 engine like the 914 Chrysler wiTech MicroPod 2?

Was Porsche in dire financial straights in the mid to late 70's? Or were low end outsourced power plant models like the 914-4 and 924 for the North American market simply intended to compete with the Japanese for market share in the "cheap and sporty" Class?