Vehicle exhibits

Ferdinand Porsche established Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche GmbH in Stuttgart in 1931 as an engineering consultancy. One of its earliest commissions was the design of the “people’s car” for Germany, which became the Volkswagen Beetle — one of the most successful automobiles of all time. After the war, Porsche’s son, Ferry Porsche, set out to build a car of his own, resulting in the company’s first production model: the Porsche 356.

Introduced in 1948 and styled by Erwin Komenda, the 356 combined lightweight construction, a rear-mounted air-cooled engine, and exceptional handling. Early examples used many Volkswagen components, but as development progressed, Porsche refined every aspect of the design. Production began in Gmünd, Austria, before moving to Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen in 1950, where the model continued until 1965.

The final and most advanced version, the 356C/SC, debuted in 1964. It brought disc brakes to all four wheels and, in SC trim, Porsche’s most powerful pushrod engine — a 1.6-litre flat-four producing 95 hp, capable of 201 km/h (125 mph). This made the SC the ultimate road-going development of the 356, just as the new 911 was being introduced.

With over 14,000 examples produced in 1964 alone, the 356 reached its peak popularity at the very end of its life. Today, the SC is one of the most desirable variants, valued for its blend of performance, refinement, and classic Porsche character.

This exhibit is fitted with several sought-after factory options, including an electric sunroof, fog lamps, a chrome luggage rack, and a wooden steering wheel — details that make it a true standout among Porsche’s first great sports cars.

Donated by the Late Barry Owen of Christchurch