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black and red stripes. The arms of Stuttgart are placed at the center, depicting a black horse “rampant” in reference to the city’s beginnings as a stud farm. The appearance of the horse also represents power and forward motion. The 356 was the first car to wear the Porsche crest, first appearing on the center of the steering wheel and later on the bonnet. Unfortunately it was

something that Ferdinand Porsche didn’t get to see before his death on January 30, 1951, aged 75. Following his father’s death, Ferry drove the company on. A massive contract with Volkswagen benefited Porsche greatly: for every Beetle sold, Porsche would receive a share of the profits. Demand for the 356 was still high, and despite the initial planned production of

only 1,500 units, Porsche went on to build more than 78,000 356s over the next 17 years. Their involvement in racing also increased, following a victory at 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1951. It was the start of a new era in which Porsche would promote and enhance their brand, securing a respected status among car manufacturers and enthusiasts alike.