1963 marked an important milestone in Germany. The success of the Wirtschaftswunder reconstruction project, which had seen devastated West Germany recover far quicker than any other postwar European economy, was reflected in car production figures which in 1963 would reach an unprecedented two million. The booming economy engendered a wave of consumer confidence, and this was reflected in the record 800,000 visitors to that year’s Frankfurt show.
Among the new cars they admired was a smart Coupé from one of the smaller manufacturers, Porsche. Maker of a slightly bulbous two-seater that sounded like a Käfer (VW Beetle) on steroids, Porsche was well known in competition circles. Now it was proposing an altogether more contemporary-looking sports car. It was smoother and longer than its predecessor, and with two (small) back seats, but still recognisably a rear-engine Porsche.
Observers were more intrigued than excited: this was the specialist company’s first new car since re-establishing itself in Stuttgart in 1950, a major development. However, those who ventured on to Porsche’s stand were told that because production wouldn’t begin for a year, no technical or other specifications were available. It was noted that the engine cover of this exhibit, unlike other cars, stayed firmly shut.
It was in 1957 that Ferry Porsche had begun to think about replacing the 356. While still competitive, it had certain archaisms, not just its dumpy styling, but its cramped cockpit and the limitations of
