 |
The Porsche 356 was a
sports car sold from 1948 through 1965, and Porsche's first production
automobile. It was preceded by the Porsche 64, which has lead to some
argument over which car is officially the first Porsche, although the Type
64 was never mass-produced and was never much more than a drivable
test-mule. The 356 concept was created by Ferdinand "Ferry" Porsche (Ferry
being a nickname), styled by Erwin Komenda, and mechanically derived from
the Volkswagen Beetle, which Ferdinand Porsche Sr. had designed. It was
initially available as a coupé, cabriolet (luxury convertible) and later a
roadster (a stripped down convertible) and went through several evolutions
before being retired in 1965. 356 "Carrera" (with a special racing engine),
"Super 90" and "Speedster" models are among the most desirable versions; 356
Carrera models often sell for well over $150,000 USD. The original selling
price of a late 50's Porsche was nearly $4,000, the price of a Cadillac!
The 356 "Speedster" was introduced in late 1954 after Max Hoffman, the sole
importer of Porsches into the United States, told the company that they
needed a lower cost, racier version for the American market. With it's low,
raked windshield (easily removable for weekend racing), bucket seats, and
minimal folding top, it was an instant hit. The now much coveted Speedster
(which often sell for over $100,000) was later used in a number of films,
including - 48 Hrs. (and its sequel Another 48 Hrs.), and Top Gun.
Production of the Speedster peaked at 1,171 cars in 1957, and it was
replaced in 1959 by the Convertible D model, which featured a taller, more
practical windshield, glass side windows, and more comfortable seats.
The basic design of the
356 remained the same throughout its lifespan,
with evolutionary, functional improvements
rather than yearly superficial styling changes.
Nevertheless a variety of models in both coupe
and convertible forms were produced from 1948
through 1965.
|
