Come one, come all! We’re kicking off our all-new GOAT series, and for episode 1, we’re looking at the Porsche 911. So join us on this epic wish list and let’s have some fun!
First thing’s first
For those who think that this little sportscar is just a glorified Volkswagen Beetle, let me show you the door. And don’t feel bad if I slam it on you before you’re done walking through.
For this is no Beetle – no no no!
Towards the late 50s, Ferdinand Porsche needed a replacement for the ageing Porsche 356, which was a great mid-engine first attempt from the little Austrian manufacturer.
In order to create a worthy successor, Mr. Porsche dusted the old manuals he had from his time at the Hogwarts School for Automotive Engineering. The result would be a 2+2 sports car called the 911 aka the Carrera – a car that would later go on to define the company’s legacy.
I repeat, it’s NOT the Beetle
A car where the engine sat above the rear axle was nothing new for the automobile wizards in Germany. I mean, VW had been doing it for years with the Beetle.
And since VW did take over Porsche, the 911 would be dubbed the Beetle dressed for ballroom dancing.
But whereas the Beetle was only built to get the common folk from Point A to Wolfsburg, the 911 was so much more – it was tailor made for the drivers.
See, totally NOT the Beetle
With an air-cooled boxer engine pushing out way more power than the people carrier, ugh, magnificent chassis and better handling, the 911 would become THE car for enthusiasts and track junkies.
And this was not a one-time feat by Porsche either.
Every iteration of the 911 has outdone her predecessor. From the very first 901 to the all new 992, they’ve all been well-received, dominating tracks and carving corners for over 4 decades with no end in sight.
Eye watering price is justified
There is a reason why these cars are expensive.
Air-cooled 911s have become extremely desirable and the prices have been on a steady rise.
This is obviously because of the luxury associated with these vehicles, as well as the fact that Porsche don’t produce them en masse, which adds that one-of-a-kind value.
What it also means is that people who own older models of the 911 would look to take advantage of the hefty price tag of the newer releases, in the event some crazed collector dips in with $200,000 to spare.
That’s not to say the modern one’s aren’t great. The 997 holds its own in a competitive playing field and could perhaps be a future classic.
My love story with Porsche
I used to think Porsches were for the young who stumbled upon some trust fund money or won the lotto and needed a fancy car to chase some tail.
Then I drove one – a base 997 with manual transmission. And O.M.G. I haven’t looked back since.
Some famous faces behind the wheel of a 911
She’s known for her savage forehand and on-court screams, but Maria Sharapova also boasts an enviable Porsche collection, among them a white 911 Carrera, which she bought for $130,000.
Probably one of the greatest action stars in history, Tom Cruise knows a thing or two about owning a Porsche.
He’s driven his fair share in the movies too, notably a 928 in Risky Business, which, along with a classic 911, now sits in his garage.
And finally, you can’t be one of the richest people in the world and not think of getting yourself a 911. That’s exactly what Bill Gates did.
In fact, he got himself a used 1979 Turbo when things kicked off with Microsoft. It was auctioned off in 2012 for $80,000.
Other notable 911 owners include Steve McQueen, Jerry Seinfeld, Matthew Perry, and Ellen Degeneres.
Patrick Dempsey supposedly has a garage full of them. I guess that’s what 11 seasons on Grey’s Anatomy buys you.
#IWantOne!
That rounds up GOAT episode 1: Porsche 911.
Enjoyed the read? Aside from our dedicated GOAT series, we’ve also got a Dummy’s Guide that answers all those questions you’re too afraid to ask out loud. Episode 1 looks at car oil. Check it out now!
