Porsche’s story as one of the world’s most desirable and respected performance luxury car manufacturers began 75 years ago with the 356 in 1948. After that, the brand’s legacy was cemented as it continued to make the world’s ost incredible sports cars, and blossomed into what it is today, with three quarters of a century of legendary history to look back on.
Jay Leno, one of the automotive world’s favorite celebrities, got behind the wheel of a stunning example of the Porsche 356, a 356 SC model from 1963 when the original Porsche model was giving way to the 911 we know and love today as one of the world’s favorite sports cars, which is also celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.
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The car is taken care of by Leno’s friend, Richard Powers, who was introduced to it after it was in storage for 36 years. Powers knows the entire history of the car from when it was first bought in Switzerland. In fact, the car has had the same paint since the 1980s, and has a parking permit sticker for UCLA from 1971. Meticulous records for service and maintenance have been kept, and the car is nearly completely original besides the seats. It has only 69,000 miles.
One of the greatest highlights of the car is its incredible build quality. It remains in wonderful condition after years, and it has 95 horsepower coming from a 1.6-liter engine.
A drive in the car shows that after 60 years, it remains an enjoyable and spirited car to drive, and a testament to the timeless splendor of classic sports cars. After experiencing the 356, it’s no wonder that 75 years later, Porsche has become the automotive titan that it is today.
Source: Jay Leno's Garage via YouTube