A history of Porsche brakes
Its brakes are the unsung heroes of the 911’s dynamics yet, surprisingly, Porsche was a reluctant convert to disc brakes, persisting with drums on the 356 as late as 1964. Back then, drum brakes were significantly lighter than the original steel disc combinations. In the company’s eyes, drums were justified because low unsprung weight contributed to those essential Porsche qualities: agility and control.
However, Zuffenhausen also recognised that the 911 would be heavier and more powerful than the 356 and opted for all-round disc brakes from the outset of the new model. The 911’s system was developed with Alfred Teves Break Systems (ATE) and comprised two-piston iron calipers on solid discs. The rear calipers were slightly smaller to reflect the greater work
