On 12 September 1963, Porsche unveiled the Type 901 at the IAA in Frankfurt as the successor to the Porsche 356. A year later, the model – by then ready for production – was presented to the public at the Paris Motor Show. Peugeot intervened, having the Porsche designation "901" banned on account of the protected zero in the middle of its own type designations.
Before Porsche could respond, exactly 82 production vehicles bearing the type designation "901" left the factory, starting on 14 September 1964, the day production began. After that, the "901" became the "911" – the three-digit sequence that would become legendary and, to this day, sets every sports car enthusiast's heart racing.
Porsche had already been giving thought to the body shape back in the 1950s. The design that was ultimately realised was developed by Porsche's son, Ferdinand Alexander. With his clear and simply beautiful design, he achieved a line that perfectly captured the spirit of the 1960s – and still resonates today. Ferry Porsche was absolutely right when he later said: "This model defined the unmistakable character of the Porsche sports car".
Even as young boys, people dream of one day owning a "Neunelfer". Those who couldn't afford one were at least given a miniature by friends for their birthday, which from then on took pride of place on the shelf.
Exhibition model
CHF 970.-
