Ferdinand Porsche founded his automotive design consultancy during the early 1930s. However, it wasn’t until 1948 that his name would be associated with a car. The 356, which was small, lightweight, rear-engined, and highly maneuverable, became the benchmark for all future Porsches. 

Source: Dutton Garage

The 356 wasn’t initially intended for mass production; during its early days, these models primarily targeted the Austrian and German markets. The production of the first 50 vehicles spanned an extensive two-year period, commencing with the prototype in 1948. Its innovative features, including remarkable aerodynamics, precise handling, and meticulous craftsmanship, quickly garnered attention and admiration from enthusiasts on both sides of the Atlantic. Its reputation soared even higher due to its exceptional performance in renowned races and events like Le Mans, the Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and Carrera Panamericana, as well as numerous other global races and rallies.

The origins

Source: RM Sotheby’s

Ferdinand Porsche’s expertise and passion for automotive excellence propelled him to establish his design consultancy in the early 1930s. With each project, he solidified his reputation as a visionary in the industry. However, it took several years for his name to be associated with a groundbreaking automobile that would become a symbol of innovation. In 1948, the world eagerly welcomed the prototype of the Porsche 356. This moment marked a turning point in sports vehicle design. It boasted a distinctive and fresh approach, characterized by its small size, lightweight construction, and rear-engined layout. These features would go on to shape the DNA of all brand’s future automobiles. A collaborative effort between Ferdinand’s son, Ferry, and the company’s chief body engineer, Erwin Komenda, brought the 356 to life. Their shared goal was to create a sports vehicle that would captivate enthusiasts around the globe. Handcrafted with meticulous care, the early examples of the vehicle featured aluminum bodies skillfully shaped in Gmund, Austria. At its inception, the brand had no intentions of mass-producing the 356. Instead, their focus was on introducing this exceptional sports vehicle to the Austrian and German markets. The manufacturing process for the first 50 vehicles spanned two years, commencing with the production of the initial prototype in 1948. This deliberate approach ensured that every automobile delivered unparalleled quality and attention to detail. The model swiftly gained recognition among automotive enthusiasts on both sides of the Atlantic. Its exceptional aerodynamics, combined with precise handling and performance, set it apart from the competition. The craftsmanship and design elements showcased Porsche’s commitment to excellence in every aspect of the automobile. Moreover, the brand’s dedication to racing excellence propelled them to victory in prestigious events such as Le Mans, the Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and Carrera Panamericana. These triumphs further established the 356’s legacy and heightened its allure among automotive enthusiasts worldwide. The year 1951 marked a significant milestone for the roadster and its relationship with the renowned Le Mans 24-Hour Race. In a fiercely competitive 1,100cc class, a Porsche car emerged triumphant, signaling the beginning of a long and illustrious association with the iconic La Sarthe circuit. This victory underscored Porsche’s commitment to performance and solidified the 356’s position as a formidable force in motorsport.

The 1954 model year

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The 1954 iteration of the model introduced notable advancements and enhancements in both technical specifications and design elements. From a technical perspective, the vehicle featured several noteworthy improvements. It was equipped with an upgraded 1.5-liter air-cooled flat-four engine, delivering enhanced performance and power. The engine underwent various refinements, including improved carburetors and a higher compression ratio, resulting in a more spirited and enjoyable driving experience. Furthermore, the suspension system received refinements to enhance handling and stability on the road, ensuring a smoother and more controlled ride. Shifting the focus to the interior, the 1954 version displayed a range of updates and enhancements. The cabin boasted a more refined and ergonomic layout, providing comfortable seating and improved visibility for the driver. The dashboard received a fresh design, incorporating updated gauges and controls that improved usability and functionality. In addition, creature comforts were enhanced, offering options for upgraded upholstery materials and additional accessories, further elevating the overall driving experience. Externally, the 1954 edition exhibited subtle yet distinctive design changes that differentiated it from its predecessors. While maintaining the iconic body styling characterized by sleek curves and a timeless silhouette, the 1954 model year introduced refined details. These included reshaped bumpers and revised trim elements, imparting a touch of elegance and modernity to the exterior aesthetics. Notably, the front hood prominently displayed the iconic brand badge, symbolizing the brand’s rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. Compared to the previous model year, the 1954 edition featured incremental improvements across various aspects. The enhancements in engine performance and suspension refinement contributed to a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. Internally, the upgraded interior provided improved comfort and convenience, catering to the desires of discerning drivers. Externally, the subtle design changes added a fresh appeal to the iconic vehicle, further enhancing its desirability and attractiveness.

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One film that remarkably highlighted the 1954 model was “Top Five,” released in 2014 and directed by Chris Rock. The movie prominently showcased a customized iteration of the 1954 edition, making it a standout presence on the screen.

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Ferry Porsche was the mastermind behind the creation of the 356, drawing inspiration from the Volkswagen designed by his father. Similar to the iconic ‘Beetle’, this legendary model featured a platform-type chassis, a rear-mounted air-cooled engine, and an all-independent suspension with torsion bars. Its production, spanning the era of the renowned 911, witnessed continuous refinements and updates until the final examples rolled off the assembly line in 1965.

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Ferdinand Porsche’s name wasn’t associated with a car until 1949. The 356, the first to bear his name, featured an innovative design influenced by Erwin Komenda’s aerodynamic styling. This brand-new model boasted a revolutionary design that showcased Erwin Komenda’s aerodynamic styling. The production of aluminum-bodied cars in Gmünd was limited, but the steel-bodied coupes entered full-scale manufacturing at the Stuttgart base, initially in collaboration with Reutter, the coachbuilders. Eventually, in 1955, production relocated to its original factory in Zuffenhausen.

The origins

Source: RM Sotheby’s

Throughout its existence, this legend appeared in four distinct series: the original ‘Pre-A’, followed by the A, B, and C modifications. The ‘Pre-A’ era extended until 1955 and is recognizable by its split or bent windshields. The split windshields were used from 1948 to 1952, while the bent windshields with a center crease adorned the models from 1953 to 1955. Noteworthy enhancements were introduced in the 1952 version, including a more streamlined production process. The 356 received fully integrated front and rear aprons that extended below the rear bumpers, along with substantial bumpers tailored to appeal to the American export market. The export models also showcased ventilated disc-type wheels, with optional trim rings adding a touch of sophistication. Inside, a new 6,000 RPM tachometer graced the refined interiors. In late 1955, the A made its grand entrance, boasting a curved windshield. It marked the first road-going Porsche to offer the optional Carrera four-cam engine. Subsequently, the T5 B was introduced in late 1959, followed by the redesigned T6 B in 1962.

The 1953 model year

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The 1953 edition boasted a compact yet muscular stance, with rounded fenders that seamlessly merged into the sculpted body. From the front, the 1953 version featured a distinguished chrome-trimmed grille that proudly displayed the Porsche emblem. Stepping inside the 1953 release was like entering a realm of refined craftsmanship and driver-focused simplicity. The cabin featured a purposeful layout, designed to enhance the driving experience. High-quality materials adorned the interior, with plush upholstery and tasteful finishes that exuded a sense of luxury. The seats provided excellent support and comfort, allowing occupants to enjoy the thrill of the road for extended periods. The dashboard boasted an elegant yet functional design, with clear and easily accessible gauges providing essential information to the driver. The steering wheel, a perfect embodiment of the era’s classic design, fit snugly in hand, allowing for precise control. Underneath its captivating exterior, the 1953 version packed impressive performance and advanced engineering. The heart of the automobile resided in its rear-mounted, air-cooled engine. The 1953 edition saw enhancements to the engine, resulting in improved power and responsiveness. The exact specifications varied across the various trim levels and configurations, but the 356 delivered a spirited performance that thrilled drivers and solidified its reputation as a sports car icon. The precise handling was attributed to the car’s all-independent suspension, featuring torsion bars that provided exceptional road-holding capabilities and a balanced ride.

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The 1953 version marked the introduction of the “Pre-A” series, a designation used to identify the early automobiles produced before significant revisions were made. These early Pre-A vehicles featured distinct design elements such as split windshields, bent windows with a center crease, and unique interior details. The Pre-A series played a crucial role in establishing the iconic design language and heritage of this model, making it a highly sought-after model among collectors and enthusiasts.

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As the first production automobile to bear the Porsche name, the 356 emerged as a harbinger of greatness—a harbinger that would shape the destiny of an entire brand. With its beguiling charm and race-bred DNA coursing through its veins, the 356 introduced the world to a new era of automotive excellence.

Source: RM Sotheby’s

Step into a world where automotive history and timeless design converge. Meet the 1951 Porsche 356, affectionately known as the “pre-A” model. Instantly recognizable with its distinctive two-piece windscreen divided by a center bar, this iconic vehicle marks the beginning of a legendary lineage. As the years unfolded, the 356 gracefully evolved, adopting a single-piece windscreen with a center bend in 1952. Throughout its generations, from Cabriolet to Speedster and Roadster, the 356 captured hearts with its open-top charm. 

The origins

Source: Classic Driver

Before the outbreak of World War II, both Ferdinand and Ferry Porsche had been involved in the design of sports vehicles, honing their skills in crafting swift and powerful roadsters. Unfortunately, the war took its toll on their endeavors, as the company’s archives, containing twelve years’ worth of work, were obliterated during the bombings near Stuttgart. In 1944, the surviving equipment was relocated to the Austrian village of Gmund. However, the post-war period presented its own set of challenges for talented engineers. Following the war’s conclusion, Ferdinand and Ferry found themselves arrested by the French authorities in Baden-Baden on accusations of collusion with the Nazis. While Ferry was cleared of charges in March 1946, Ferdinand had to wait until 1947 for his name to be exonerated. Yet, even after his release, Ferdinand was still restricted from leaving the French occupation zone for an additional year. However, Ferry’s escape from this predicament was facilitated by the assistance of Italian entrepreneur Piero Dusio, who made a payment to the French authorities. Dusio had his interests in mind, as he sought the expertise of the esteemed Porsche father and son duo to design a racing vehicle. 

Ferry drew upon his father’s pre-war approaches, which had been tested on Auto Union automobiles, to create a prototype that proved highly successful. With the funds acquired from Dusio, Ferry secured legal representation for his father, who was still in custody, while simultaneously initiating plans for the production of a personal sports vehicle. All models in this series were built on the platform of the Volkswagen Beetle, featuring a rear-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, and shared suspension. The elegantly contoured body boasted distinctive styling while delivering surprisingly commendable aerodynamic performance. Initially, the company offered coupe and convertible bodies with a 2+2 seating arrangement. However, it wasn’t long before they commenced the production of a more stylish and sleek 2-seater Speedster roadster. In the year 1948 alone, a total of 52 vehicles were manufactured in Gmund, featuring lightweight aluminum coupes and convertible bodies.

The 1951 model year

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The 1951 iteration of the Porsche 356 marked a significant milestone in the ongoing development of this legendary sports vehicle. While preserving the distinctive essence of its predecessors, the 1951 version incorporated a range of notable enhancements that distinguished it from earlier versions. In terms of its exterior design, the 1951 edition retained the recognizable silhouette that had captured the hearts of car enthusiasts. However, a key visual difference between the 1951 model and the previous year’s version lay in the windshield configuration. Unlike the original 356, which featured a two-piece windscreen divided by a center bar, the 1951 edition introduced a sleeker single-piece windscreen with a center bend. This modification not only enhanced the car’s aesthetics but also improved visibility for the driver, thereby elevating the overall driving experience. Beneath the bonnet, the 1951 release offered a selection of engine options, including the highly regarded flat-four powerplants. These meticulously engineered air-cooled engines delivered spirited performance and emitted a distinctive exhaust note that became synonymous with the Porsche brand. While specific specifications varied depending on the particular variant, the 1951 version generally featured engines with displacements ranging from 1.1 to 1.5 liters, producing horsepower figures between 40 and 60. Such power output provided ample thrust for an exhilarating driving experience. Inside the cabin, the 1951 release exuded timeless elegance and a driver-centric design ethos. Despite its compact dimensions, the interior boasted a thoughtfully arranged cockpit tailored to the needs of the driver. Ergonomically positioned controls, such as the three-spoke steering wheel and intuitive instrumentation, engendered an immersive driving environment. Upholstery options varied, offering choices between classic leather and durable yet comfortable cloth materials, allowing for a personalized touch. Furthermore, the 1951 model year introduced refined suspension tuning, which significantly enhanced the car’s handling and ride quality. The suspension system, in conjunction with the lightweight construction and precise steering, contributed to the renowned agility and responsiveness that had come to be expected from Porsche vehicles. 

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The 1951 edition appeared in the classic Alfred Hitchcock film “North by Northwest” released in 1959. In the movie, the protagonist played by Cary Grant finds himself pursued by enemies, leading to a thrilling chase sequence involving a memorable scene with a 1951 edition Cabriolet. The sleek and stylish vehicle became an iconic element of the film, adding a touch of sophistication and excitement to the on-screen action. This cinematic connection further cemented the allure and cultural significance of the 1951 edition in the annals of automotive and film history.

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The Porsche 356 was a true icon in the world of automotive design, engineering, and racing. It embodied the spirit of its time and continues to captivate the imagination of enthusiasts and collectors around the world. From its sleek curves and timeless design to its innovative engineering and race-winning performance, this groundbreaking automobile left an indelible mark on the automotive industry.

Source: Supercar Nostalgia

The original 356 was produced from 1948 to 1955. It was available in coupe and convertible versions and was powered by a rear-mounted, air-cooled, four-cylinder engine. The car underwent several small changes during its production, but it remained largely the same until the introduction of the 356A.

The origins

Source: Porsche

The story of the 356 began with Ferdinand Porsche, the founder of the Porsche brand. His son, Ferry, inherited his father’s passion for automobiles and took the lead in the design of the 356. He enlisted the help of his team of designers and engineers, including Erwin Komenda, who was responsible for the body design of the model. Together, they worked tirelessly to create a vehicle that was not only beautiful but also fast and reliable. The technical components, including the engine, suspension, and chassis, were borrowed from Volkswagen models. However, the team made significant improvements to these components, tweaking and refining them until they were perfect. The result was a sleek and sporty vehicle that was a joy to drive. The new automobile was powered by a flat-four engine that was mounted in the rear of the vehicle, giving it excellent handling and traction. It was also lightweight, thanks to its aluminum body, which made it faster and more agile. Initially, the model was produced in Austria, where the brand had its roots. However, the automobile quickly gained popularity and was soon being produced in other countries as well. Its success was due in part to its versatility. The 356 was available in both hardtop and convertible versions, making it the perfect vehicle for any driver, whether they preferred an open-air ride or a more traditional one. 

Over the years, the team continued to improve and modernize the 356. However, they never lost sight of the automobile’s original design and ethos. The vehicle remained true to its roots, with most of the details and design remaining unchanged throughout its production. Instead, the focus was on technical improvements and modernization, ensuring that the model remained a top-of-the-line sports vehicle. Today, the 1950 release is a highly sought-after classic car, with collectors around the world eager to add one to their collections. 

The 1950 model year

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In 1950, Porsche introduced the 356, which came with significant enhancements in comparison to its predecessor. The car derived its power from a rear-mounted flat-four engine, air-cooled, producing 60 horsepower. This engine was matched with a four-speed manual transmission and featured a dual-carburetor setup. The vehicle could attain a top speed of approximately 100 mph and achieve the 0 to 60 mph sprint in about 11 seconds. Moreover, the 1950 model showcased an independent four-wheel suspension system that delivered exceptional ride comfort and handling prowess. The 1950 iteration displayed a sleek and aerodynamic external design that was ahead of its era. It exhibited a low-profile stance, characterized by a curved front end and a sloping roofline, imparting a sporty aesthetic. Constructed from lightweight aluminum, the car’s body contributed to improved performance and handling dynamics. Furthermore, the automobile provided a variety of color options, including silver, red, blue, and green. Inside the 1950 version, the interior was unpretentious and refined, prioritizing functionality and driver convenience. It featured a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a set of comfortable bucket seats. The dashboard was minimalist and featured a set of gauges that provided the driver with all the necessary information about the automobile’s performance. The vehicle also featured radio and a heater as standard equipment, which were considered luxury features at the time. To sum up, the 1950 version is a classic sports car that is revered by car enthusiasts around the world. Its technical specifications, sleek exterior design, and functional interior make it a timeless icon of automotive engineering and design.

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Several notable films featured the 1950 version of 356. The list includes: “Top Gun” (1986), “Risky Business” (1983), “Jerry Maguire” (1996), “Notorious” (1946),  and “The Graduate” (1967). 

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The famous 356A was designed as an updated 356 and was produced from 1955 to 1959. This iconic German roadster quickly became the new trendsetter in the automotive fashion of the 50s. 

Source: Phil Seeds Virtual Car Museum

The Porsche car was always a symbol of prosperity and success. A car for wealthy folk capable not only to earn money but also to spend them properly. For such people, the legendary German manufacturer produced its famous automobiles with innovative approaches and elegant designs. The knowledge and experience gained in the production of racing vehicles were reflected in all their products, particularly in the 356 series, which became the epitome of successful design and the hallmark of the company. In general, all the creations of the legendary brand changed and improved over the history of the company. However, in the case of the 356, the appearance remained almost unchanged over the years: it got the best aerodynamic solution, which became a standard for many automakers.

The origins

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The 356th model was the brainchild of Ferdinand (Ferry) Porsche – the brand founder’s son. The body design of the iconic roadster belonged to the corporation’s employee Erwin Komenda, and the technical components (engine, suspension, and chassis) were taken from Volkswagen models. Remarkably, Ferdinand created the very first car for personal use, but friends liked the car so much that they convinced Ferry to make more: thus, about 20 more samples were made later. The assembly was manual: no chance of serial production at that time. In such conditions, in 1948, the new roadster was born. Interestingly, it was produced in Austria and originally it was considered the model’s manufacturing country. The result was a sporty, rear-wheel drive, rear-engined, easy-to-handle, and very fast automobile which was destined to become a legend. It was produced in two configurations – hardtop and convertible, and for economical concerns, some parts for the future roadster were borrowed from Volkswagen. Thanks to the success that followed, in the 50s, it was reconstructed and gained its technology. Improvement and modernization continued for years. The remarkable sales and increased brand awareness made its models iconic. Production of the 356 lasted from 1948 to 1965, however, the design and most of the details of the 356 remained unchanged throughout its production: the company paid more attention to technical improvement than to external design.

The 1955 model year

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The 356A replaced the original 356 in September 1955, after debuting at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Often it was mentioned as T1 because of its internal index Type1. Consequently, in 1958 this index changed to T2. The 1955 release was a little different from the previous model (1948-1955) – the 356 Pre-A, as the company always followed a policy of incremental improvement rather than a radical redesign. So the new roadster differed from its predecessor only by a one-piece curved windshield (without a central bulkhead), chrome moldings on the sills, and a revised instrument panel with three gauges and 15-inch wheels instead of 16-inch ones. Less noticeable changes that affected handling were the suspension and steering. There were three body styles to choose from: the 2+2 coupe, the 2+2 convertible, and the two-seat Speedster. All of them were built in the Reutter studio in Stuttgart. The four-cylinder air-cooled boxer engine located at the rear of the Porsche 356A was available in four versions: 1300N (1290 cm3, 44 hp), the 1300S (1290 cm3, 60 hp), 1600N (1582 cm3, 60 hp), and 1600S (1582 cm3, 75 hp). “N” and “S” stood for “Normal” and “Super”. All these versions were 8-valve, with an overhead camshaft and OHV, in contrast to the Carrera series engine, which also had 8 valves, but two overhead camshafts (DOHC) and dual ignition with separate distributors. 

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The modification of the Porsche 356A 1500 GS was named in honor of the Porsche 550’s victory at Carrera Panamericana. The Carrera kit could be ordered for each of the three body styles (coupe, convertible, and roadster). In 1958, the engine was increased to 1588 cm3 and the model was designated the Porsche 356A 1600 GS Carrera. 

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