Porsche 356: 75th Anniversary

The Porsche 356, a classic sports car, was developed by Ferdinand Porsche's son "Ferry" Porsche in 1948. It evolved through four distinct series and was a force in sports car racing. The car has a fascinating history and attracts collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. The book "356 Fascination" celebrates the car's history with ongoing restoration efforts, vintage racing, and an "Outlaw" movement.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2023
Publisher: Motorbooks International

Porsche 356: 75th Anniversary delves into the comprehensive history of Porsches iconic sports car, spanning from the initial Gmund coupe to the cherished collector car of today. Renowned engineer Ferdinand Porsche, prior to World War II, played a pivotal role in numerous significant automotive engineering advancements, including the development of the first hybrid drive vehicles. Throughout the early 1900s, Porsche ventured into the realm of racing, creating notable racing cars such as the Mercedes SSK and the formidable Auto Union Grand Prix. During this era, Porsche also pioneered the groundbreaking Volkswagen, which would later serve as the foundation for his renowned automobile manufacturer.

The Typ 356, designed by Ferdinands son, Ferry Porsche, was introduced in 1948. While the rear-engine layout drew inspiration from the Volkswagen, the 356 stood out with its distinct chassis, high-performance engine, and elegant wind-cheating body. Initially, the 356 gained recognition primarily within Germany, but by the early 1950s, it was acclaimed for its exceptional handling, robust build quality, and increasing string of competitive achievements.

Over its 17-year lifespan, the Porsche 356 underwent four distinct series: pre-A, A, B, and C, offering a wide range of body variations, including coupes, cabriolets, Speedsters, Hardtops, and Roadsters. Equipped with the powerful "Carrera" 4-cam engine, the 356 excelled in sports car racing, dominating road racing, endurance, and hill climb events for over a decade.

The 356 story is rich with fascinating characters, encompassing the engineers who meticulously crafted the cars, the race drivers who established the "giant-killer" mystique, and the owners like James Dean and Janis Joplin who fell deeply in love with the petite bathtub-shaped sports cars. From titled European gentlemen in the 1950s to the diverse enthusiasts who embraced the 356 today, the car has transcended its original purpose and become an enduring symbol of automotive passion and innovation.

In conclusion, Porsche 356: 75th Anniversary is a captivating journey through the history of Porsches iconic sports car, from its early origins to its enduring legacy. Through meticulous research and storytelling, the book offers a deep appreciation for the engineering brilliance, design ingenuity, and cultural significance of the 356, cementing its place as a true automotive legend.

Weight: 1948g
Dimension: 314 x 257 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780760377376