Porsche’s halo car, the Porsche 911, is lauded as one of the oldest coupes in production and one of the most successful competition cars in the history of motorsport. This grand tourer first came out in 1963. Very few changes were made throughout its production, and its original distinctive design remains until today.
The 911 (Nine Eleven) is a rear-engine, rear-wheel or four-wheel drive car that comes in a coupe, cabriolet and Targa body styles. This succeeded the Porsche 356, the company’s first ever vehicle, which ended production in 1965.
The concept behind the 911 can be traced to Ferdinand “Butzi” Porsche, grandson of company founder Ferdinand Porsche, in 1959. The 911 was created as a replacement for the 356, which was less powerful and less comfortable than its successor. It was initially called “901,” but after a dispute with Peugeot, was renamed 911.
Between 1973 and 1974, the great 911 classics were produced: the Carrera RS, the Turbo, and the SC. These models bore distinctive styles, and were greatly used in racing and rallies.
1998 marks the year when the 911 was switched from air-cooled to water-cooled engine. The latest 911 series, first introduced at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, carries a new platform: the third in its 50 years of production.
