Based loosely upon the VW Beetle, which Dr Porsche also designed, the 356 was the first Porsche model, and as such, represented the birth of a legend. The curvaceous little coupes and spyders were a huge success throughout the world, and continued to be so for the rest of the model's life due to Porsche's policy of continuous development. Here is the full and fascinating account of the Porsche 356, and the racing and rallying cars that sprang from it. It is the story of the very beginnings of what, today, is one of the greatest sports car marques and an icon of automotive excellence.