dream car...le sigh 11/22/2009
I often think about this car, the 1961 black cabriolet Porsche 356. She's a beauty. According to the wiki: The Porsche 356 was the company's first production automobile. It was a lightweight and nimble handling rear-engine rear-wheel-drive 2 door sports car available in hardtop and convertible configurations. Design innovations continued during the years of manufacture, contributing to its motorsports success and popularity. Production started in 1948 at Gmünd, Austria where approximately 50 cars were built. In 1950 the factory relocated to Zuffenhausen, Germany and general production of the 356 continued until April 1965. It is estimated approximately half of the total production of 76,000 Porsche 356s still survive. 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. Cabriolets (convertibles) were offered from the start, and in the early 1950s sometimes comprised over 50% of total production. One of the most desirable collector models is the 356 "Speedster", introduced in late 1954 after Max Hoffman, the sole US importer of Porsches, advised the company that a lower-cost, open-top version could sell well in the American market. With its low, raked windshield (which could be removed for weekend racing), bucket seats and minimal folding top, the Speedster was an instant hit, especially in Southern California.  It'll take a hefty six figures to make her mine, or I can go for the cheaper replica... either way, I'd be happy. And at the risk of committing vintage vehicular blasphemy, I would also be inclined to convert her to electric, but that would add on another 10 large. A girl can dream can't she? CommentsLeave a Reply |
|
RSS Feed