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The Porscheplatz in Zuffenhausen, Germany, is a museum dedicated to one of the world's most famous cars. Opened in January, 2009, the museum traces the history of this iconic sports car, from its early days when the company was founded by Professor Ferdinand Porsche in 1930, to the present day.

But the first true Porsche didn't appear until nine years later - the first car to be designed and manufactured by the new company was another iconic vehicle - the Volkswagen. However, the 'Beetle', as it came affectionately to be known, did provide components for the Porsche 64, which rolled out onto the streets in 1939.

WWII sidelined the company into producing tanks and armored vehicles for the German Army, which resulted in the brief post war imprisonment of Ferdinand Porsche and his son Ferry in 1945 for suspected war crimes. Ferry passed the time designing the Porsche 356, which was released in 1948. Porsche was now officially launched.

Porche's long history in motor racing began with the 356, which won its first race almost as soon as it was registered for the road. The sleek design and rear engine made it ideal for racing, even the low horsepower proving no obstacle in endurance races because of the reliability of the cars. To the present day, Porsche has clocked up more than 28,000 victories in motorsport, and builds more racing cars than any other manufacturer.

The Porsche 911, regarded as the company's touchstone in excellence, was launched in 1964. It is arguably one of the most successful cars in competition ever built, both in rallying and racing. The 911 Carrera, from 1973 and '74, is still highly prized by collectors. The `Porsche Principal" continues to be the company's manifesto - that you don't have to be big to be great, and size isn't everything.

Today, that principal has been extended to producing environmentally conscious cars, both in production and performance. Currently, Porsche produces the Boxster, the Cayman, the Panamera, the Cayenne, and, of course, the iconic 911. In 1999, this car came fifth in the International Car of the Century poll, and in the 46 years of its existence, has undergone continuous development.

The 2009 911 Sports Classic is another limited edition of this famous car, with just 250 cars bearing this exclusive title available on the market. The Porsche Principal wins again - when you are on a good thing, stick to it!

Learn more about this author, Gail Kavanagh.
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