Porsche 911

The Porsche 911 is, arguably, the most successful sportscar of all time. Launched in 1963 and still in production over 35 years later, this simple, effective design has outlasted its contemporaries and defied its critics. Despite continuous development, it retains its distinctive character and is still one of the best known and most desirable vehicles on the road. Meredith's enthusiastic and expert account of this machine uses 220 archive photographs to show the car's history and explain how it has gained its reputation. He recalls the Porsche 356, the 911's remarkable precursor, and he describes the conception of the new car in the early 1960s and the design and engineering philosophy of Butzi Porsche, whose brainchild it was. Since the 911's conception, it has been subjected to intense development, which has enhanced its refinement and performance, improved the handling and level of equipment, and incorporated the latest technological innovations. Nevertheless, the soundness and elegance of the original design are undeminished. As the author demonstrates, the 911 on the road or on the racetrack, in standard form or as a turbocharged racer, is such an exciting, efficient machine that it has stood the test of time and become an icon of style as well as automobile engineering. Laurence Meredith goes some way towards demystifying the 911's enduring appeal, offering insights for Porsche enthusiasts and for all those keen to understand the famous career of this definitive sportscar.