The Porsche 911 was first unveiled to the public on 12 September 1963 when it was launched at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. Full production of the car began a year later in September 1964 at the Porsche factory in Zuffenhausen. The first models of the 911 had a rear-mounted 130 hp flat 6 engine, and like its predecessor the 356 the engine was air-cooled.
It is an undeniably iconic and inspiring design, that since its inception has been gradually evolved while keeping the rear engined layout that contributes so much to its character. This evolution through to the latest 992 model has maintained the car’s timeless proportions, with its distinctive curved lines, compact size and purposeful stance.
Water cooling came with the transition to the 996, which allowed an increase in power output and provided a way to meet stricter emissions standards which were emerging at the time. This change still divides 911 aficionados with the early cars retaining a very strong following.
The 911 was fifth in a 1999 poll to determine the Car of the Century. It is one of two in the top five that had remained continuously in production (the original Beetle remained in production until 2003) with the millionth example produced in 2017.