Even today, nearly 70 years after Max Hoffman, a New York-based classic car dealer, began importing luxury European cars into the United States, his powers of persuasion remain evident. Hoffman was instrumental in convincing manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche to think beyond their existing markets and cater to the fruitful North American market. Customers in chic US locations sought after exciting sports car styling, which led to the creation of the 507 Roadster, 300 SL in both Gullwing and Roadster form, and the Porsche 356 Speedster.
Porsche’s car, in particular, was conceived as a result of Hoffman’s suggestion that drivers in the US would be interested in a simplified, more affordable version of the popular 356 Cabriolet. The Speedster was introduced in late 1954, featuring a rakish windscreen and a minimalist folding roof mechanism that added to the car’s sleek appearance. The model offered customers a unique twist on Porsche’s now-legendary 356 and proved to be a hit, particularly in warmer climates and in its target US market.
Photo Source: RM Sotheby’s
