1964 Porsche 901 Prototype Convertible

When Porsche decided to replace the 356 with the 911 in the early 1960's, the question arose as to whether an open car should be offered to replace the popular cabriolet. By 1964, Porsche had already built its thirteen 901 pre-production Coupe prototypes. Since Karmann had historically built all 356 Cabriolets for Porsche, the decision was made to commission an open 901 prototype body in June of 1964.

In June 1964, Porsche commissioned Karmann to # 13 360, the first open 901 prototype and today one of two remaining 901 prototypes. Karmann was a natural choice since it was building 356 B&C cabriolets; their expertise would save time and money in developing a new 901 cabriolet. This 901 was delivered to Porsche Research on September 10, 1964. Concern over pending rollover protection in the United States that would eliminate convertible sales resulted in the plan to create an open body style that would meet the future requirements. The result of Butzi Porsche's new design which was approved on February 1, 1965, for final development and production would become the Targa model.

This 901 remained at Porsche for another year in testing service as a 911S being equipped with prototype Fuchs alloy wheels and other 911S model equipment. Famed Porsche collector Manfred Freisinger of Karlsruhe, Germany acquired it during 1966 and stayed with him until the current owner acquired it in 2000. The 901 was not for sale but was acquired in a 'trade' for another Porsche for Manfred's collection. This 901 has not been altered from the way since it left the factory. As a research vehicle, it was subject to bumps, scrapes and dings which it proudly wears today along with its original paint. To fully re-commission the 901 systems it was entrusted to Richard Bennett of Thompson, Ohio whose former employer was Porsche legend Chuck Stoddard.

The completed body was delivered to Porsche Research in September of 1964 and development of different types of open concepts began on this car. At a Porsche Management Board meeting on February 1, 1965, they decided to go with the innovative Targa concept for the open 911, using this car as the primary example and testbed. A second Targa prototype was then commissioned and both were on the Frankfurt Auto Show stand in November of 1965 when the Targa concept was introduced to the world.

This car was found in Germany in 2000 and is in essentially the same condition it was when it left its vigorous regimen of factory testing.