Until the mid 90s Porsche was associated with a group of petrol heads who were all out for performance. Practicality wasn’t high on the agenda. So, what if you couldn’t take the kids and the dog, or daily drive your Porsche to work? This philosophy almost bankrupted the company, but fortunately they had an epiphany. You can have your cake and eat it too.
Enter Porsche’s game changing vehicles of the late 90s and early 00s. Fast forward a decade and you have the powerhouse company of today.
A Porsche isn’t every man (or woman’s) auto, but there is a model for any man’s needs. That being said, let’s take a look at four models that are radically different in all but name.
Porsche Cayenne
Aimed at families who want to explore the back roads on weekends, the Cayenne was a groundbreaking vehicle for Porsche.
When first introduced Stateside in 2003 it was the first off-road vehicle Porsche had manufactured since its tractors of the 1950s.
Targeting the steadily growing SUV market, it has carved a niche as a solid contender. With the S Class Diesels being famous for towing a 265-ton Airbus there is a lot to like about this all-rounder. Some of the latest models have a 0-60 time of under four seconds which is scarily quick for such a large vehicle.
911 GT3
However far die-hard fans might think Porsche has strayed from their roots with fanciful models like the Taycan or Cayenne, this vehicle proves that they haven’t lost their moxie.
The 911 GT3 is performance personified. There are no pretenses with this one ladies and gents. The 911 GT3 is out to dominate the track and street. Exquisite styling coupled with breathtaking acceleration embodies the purity that is Porsche.
For those of us for whom the GT3 is a little too much pedigree for the budget, there is its baby brother, the 718. Rumors of a four cylinder version may make it even more accessible than ever.
Taycan
Tesla couldn’t hold onto its crown of being the only electric performance vehicle on our market. Porsche believes in relentless innovation, and that is the spirit that the Taycan embodies.
Becoming the best-selling sedan in Porsche’s line up is no mean feat, especially as it’s a new kid when compared to the 911. We attribute this to a clever virtual marketing system. Add an even smarter charging and route planning service and you’ve got a whiz kid.
Yes, it is fair to say that while the Taycan retains the Porsche DNA it still has a firm foothold in the future.
Porsche 356
For those of us who like a more classic motoring feel and would rather own a Porsche as a long-term investment, there is the iconic 356.
In our opinion still one of the most attractive Porsche’s ever built, the 356 is where it all began. It’s somewhat fitting that we end our lineup with this model.
Interestingly enough, prices for a good example sedan range between $75,000 to $100,000. The convertible is worth upwards of a cool half million. This is Porsche at its purest; the original design by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche powered by a true air cooled heart that is indicative of the company’s close ties with Volkswagen.
Which Porsche Would YOU Choose?
You cannot please everyone. When it comes to Porsche’s current lineup and rich history, we think even the most difficult customer will find something to like.