The Porsche 904 GTS: An Aerodynamic Masterpiece

Mar 19, 2023 | The Porsche Chronicles

The Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, also known as the Porsche Carrera GTS, is a car that embodies the very essence of Porsche engineering and design.

It was created during a time when Porsche was at the forefront of motorsports, and this car was designed to be a true competitor on the race track.

The Porsche 904 Carrera GTS was manufactured between 1963 and 1965, with a total of only 126 units ever produced. It was built at the Porsche factory in Stuttgart, Germany, and was designed to be a lightweight, high-performance sports car that could excel both on the track and on the road.

One of the most unique visual features of the Porsche 904 Carrera GTS is its streamlined body, which was designed to improve aerodynamics and reduce drag. The car’s body was made entirely out of fiberglass, which helped to keep its weight down and improve handling.

Under the hood, the car was equipped with a four-cylinder engine that was capable of producing up to 180 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful cars of its time. The engine was designed by Ferdinand Piech, who later became the CEO of Volkswagen Group.

The Porsche 904 Carrera GTS was designed to be a car that was not only fast, but also agile and easy to handle. It was equipped with a four-wheel independent suspension system that was carefully engineered to optimize handling and balance.

During the design and manufacturing process, Porsche was faced with several challenges, including issues with weight distribution, aerodynamics, and engine performance.

However, these were solved through the use of advanced technologies, including lightweight materials, innovative engine design, and wind tunnel testing.

The Porsche 904 Carrera GTS made its debut at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show

The Porsche 904 Carrera GTS made its debut at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show, where it was met with great acclaim from both the press and fans around the world. At the time of release, the car cost around $7,000, which made it one of the most expensive cars on the market.

Today, the Porsche 904 Carrera GTS is considered a classic car, and its timeless design and exceptional performance have made it a sought-after collector’s item. Its top three competitors at the time of release were the Ferrari 250 GTO, the Jaguar E-Type, and the Shelby Cobra.