In 1954, the first Porsche built especially for racing is a mid-engine sports car with an aluminum body. It swiftly becomes a stand-out by earning a class victory and a third-place overall ranking in the Carrera Panamericana against higher-capacity competitors. Another event that boosts this car’s fame occurs at the Mille Miglia. Hans Herrmann and his codriver just manage to whiz underneath a closing railroad barrier in the low-profile Spyder – the car and its occupants remain unscathed.
Specifications
Model Year
1954
Engine
4-Cyl. Boxer
Displacement
1498 ccm
Power Output
81 kW (110 HP)
Top Speed
220 km/h
Astrid Böttinger
Spokesperson Heritage and Porsche Museum
Team Coordinator Communications
Fifty-five years ago, Richard Attwood and Hans Herrmann won the first of a total of 19 overall victories for Porsche in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Today, the British-born Attwood celebrates his 85th birthday.
