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