DigeeBooks

The definitive history of one of Porsches most beloved and competitive racing champions.  Forty Six tells the unlikely underdog story of the car that scored Porsches first racing victories and helped establish their commercial success: the 356/2 063. Beginning at the companys post-World War II nadir, Bill Wagenblatt illuminates how Porsche rose from the ashes to overcome multiple trials and near-disasters to compete with this vehicle at Le Mans, the Liege-Rome-Liege Rally, and Montlhéry, where they set new racing records in the 1950s. Wagenblatt follows the tale into the twenty-first century, making clear how the 356/2 063 helped set Porsche Motorsport on its way to becoming the juggernaut that we know today. Including a wealth of archival photos and documents that have never been before published, along with a unique look at the cars US history, Forty Six is the definitive history of one of Porsches most beloved and competitive racing champions.

In the automotive world, few names evoke such passion and admiration as Porsche. With its iconic sports cars, racing victories, and engineering excellence, Porsche has captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.

At the heart of Porsche's success in motorsport lies a little-known but pivotal chapter in its history: the story of Project 46. Under the leadership of Ferry Porsche, the son of the company's founder, Ferdinand Porsche, Project 46 set out to develop a lightweight, agile, and powerful sports car that would dominate the racing circuits of the world.

In "Forty Six: The Birth of Porsche Motorsport," acclaimed automotive journalist and historian Bill Wagenblatt takes readers on a thrilling ride through the development and triumphs of the Porsche 356, a car that would forever change Porsche's destiny.

Drawing from extensive research, interviews with key figures involved in the project, and rare archival material, Wagenblatt paints a vivid picture of the challenges, obstacles, and triumphs that shaped the 356. He delves into the engineering innovations that made the 356 a formidable competitor, from its lightweight aluminum body to its advanced suspension system.

Wagenblatt also brings to life the colorful characters who played a crucial role in the success of Project 46. Meet Ferry Porsche, the visionary leader who drove the project forward; Hans Mezger, the brilliant engineer behind the 356's iconic engine; and Huschke von Hanstein, the charismatic racing manager who guided Porsche to countless victories.

"Forty Six: The Birth of Porsche Motorsport" is not just a story of a car; it's a chronicle of human ingenuity, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. It's a must-read for Porsche enthusiasts, automotive historians, and anyone fascinated by the world of motorsport.