When you hear the word “Porsche” in conversation, what does it conjure up in your mind? It’s probably akin to elegance, style, speed and perhaps an underlying desire to own one. One thing that is certain, they are expensive to purchase.

Here’s an interesting point, Porsche’s have a reputation for having one of the highest rates of single ownership, compared to other high value cars. Meaning once someone buys one they rarely ever sell it.

Porsche’s history is fascinating. Ferdinand Porsche initially designed off-road racing cars in the 1930’s. He did this during his spare time, almost as a hobby, but also to bring in extra cash for his family. From these small beginnings the Porsche legacy began.

It was in 1948 that the first Porsche rolled out of the workshop. Its name wasn’t particularly ambitious; the 356 Roadster, so called because it simply related to the number of the chassis. Its 1.1-liter engine, which was a Volkswagen engine, managed a maximum speed of 84 mph, slow by today’s standards, but fast for its day. Two years later in 1950, regular production commenced. The 356 sold successfully and several different versions followed. By 1956 the 10,000th Porsche was made.

However, it wasn’t until 1963 that Porsche produced what was later to become their flagship car; it was the now infamous 911. The 911 originally was powered by a 2.0-liter engine. Various versions of the 911 were produced over the following decade.

Although the 911 was a popular model, it was particularly expensive, and Ferdinand Porsche was convinced that there was a market for a sports car with a lower price tag. Working closely with Volkswagen a new Porsche, the 914 was developed. The 914, introduced in 1969, had a centrally positioned 4-cylinder engine and a completely removable roof.

Six years later the Porsche 924 rolled out of the factory. Design changes meant that for the first time a Porsche had a transaxle configuration; the engine was at the front while the transmission system was at the rear. During the following 20 years Porsche produced the 944 and the 968 and the total number of these cars produced was over 325,000.

Porsches’ 928 Gran Turismo was the only sports car to win the acclaimed Car of the Year title and was the most expensive production car produced. Despite its high price, in excess of 60,000 were sold worldwide.

In 1996 the Porsche Boxster was produced. It was the first Porsche to offer the facilities of a true open-top sports car combined with the driving comforts of a regular car. One of its features included an electric roof which could be fully opened or closed in a matter of 12 seconds, simply by pushing a button.

An historic moment occurred in July 1996; the millionth Porsche rolled out of the factory. Today, Porsche continue to produce sort after sports cars. The main four models are the Boxster, the Cayman, the Cayman SUV and of the course the very much revered 911; the model that has stood the test of time from 1963.

www.ConklinNewton.com and Conklin Cars Salina are part of the leading car dealership company Conklin Cars.

http://www.conklinnewton.com and http://www.conklincarssalina.com are part of the leading car dealership company Conklin Cars.

Author Bio: www.ConklinNewton.com and Conklin Cars Salina are part of the leading car dealership company Conklin Cars.

Category: Automotive
Keywords: Auto, Vehicle, Industry, Luxury