As you can probably guess, as Pasadena and Encino’s top Porsche service providers, we’re passionate about the vehicles we work on. Over the years, we’ve developed a reputation for matching the level of luxury of a Porsche in the services and repairs we offer — and it’s all thanks to the legacy of quality that Porsche brought to the United States 70 years ago.
In today’s post, we’re taking a look back at 70 years of Porsche history in America, so keep reading to learn more about how Porsche made its way into the U.S., what the early years looked like, and how the timeless designs of Porsche continue to inspire and excite to this day.
It Started 70 Years Ago This Fall
In the fall of 1950, Porsche began the process of bringing its cars into the United States, but it was two years ago in June of 1948 that the very first Porsche was declared road-certified in Germany. After two years of growth and development for Porsche back in Germany, Max Hoffman’s Hoffman Motor Car Company took an interest in bringing in cars from overseas into his New York City showroom.
Journalist Max Troesch is responsible for showing Hoffman photographs of a Porsche 356 he had driven, declaring that “I am sure this car will make a name for itself.” Needless to say, it did — and it’s thanks to the conversations between Troesch and Hoffman that it was agreed upon to import 15 cars into the United States each year.
“The World’s Most Exciting Cars”
Thanks to Hoffman, Porsche began to develop a reputation in America. According to Newsroom, “His marketing materials described the 356 as ‘One of the World’s Most Exciting Cars’ with ‘a new conception in handling, roadholding, suspension, and safety never known before.’”
The marketing took off, and by the mid-1950s, nearly 30% of Porsche’s annual production was being sold in the U.S. By the mid-60s, “the U.S. share of Porsche sales had risen to a massive 74.6 percent.”
Of course, the rest was history.
A Legacy of Growth
Everyone has a favorite Porsche, but what’s truly surprising is that Porsche is a company that continues to innovate, creating modern-day marvels that are equally as beloved as their vintage counterparts. In fact, 2019 saw a record number of Porsche vehicles sold in the U.S.
At HOUSE Auto Group, we’re just as excited about working on your favorite Porsche from decades past as we are about working on their latest creations. With free flatbed services and rental cars, we’re the local Porsche mechanic to turn to when you need a helping hand. As independent Porsche specialists, we’re just as passionate about working on your vehicle as you are about owning it, and whether you’re in need of a pre-purchase inspection or routine maintenance, we have you covered.
Have a question for the team at HOUSE Auto? Ready to schedule an appointment for your Porsche? We’re here to help, so contact us today and rest assured that we’ll go above and beyond to provide your Porsche with the luxury treatment it deserves.