Porsche's Technological Innovations Part 5: The Giant Killer

As recounted in chapter 3 of Porsche’s Technological Innovations on Roarington.com, Ferry Porsche’s first creation, named "Number One" and built as a unique exemplar, featured a mid-engine layout. The idea was soon abandoned for reasons of cost and cabin space, leading to the adoption of the rear overhang engine layout for the new Stuttgart manufacturer. It was 1948, and although this decision proved successful for road cars, it soon became clear that this solution was disadvantageous in professional racing. For a sports brand during years when racing fueled passion and desire, Porsche risked falling short in the dreams of potential customers if it didn’t prove competitive. The decision to launch the 550 project—named due to decades of Porsche projects, especially those by Ferry’s famous father, Ferdinand — revealed Porsche’s technical potential and imagination to the world.