While this news has been somewhat eclipsed by the virtual implosion of the U.S. auto industry, after more than a year of boardroom wranglings and financial maneuverings, it looks very likely that Porsche and its bigger sibling Volkswagen will soon be merging…or, at a minimum, officially joining forces. While this may seem anathema to the diehard Porsche purist, actually the first true partnership between the two German firms resulted in one of Porsche’s most exceptional—if not unsung—racecars.
In 1969 Porsche had a problem; while their lineup was steadily improving in performance, luxury, and quality, it was also steadily increasing in price. Leaders of the Stuttgart firm soon came to the realization that they lacked a suitable “entry-level” sports car that would be affordable to someone new to the market, but afraid to buy a 911.
