In a stylish celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Porsche has unveiled the Porsche Vision 357 Speedster, a spectacular concept car that pays homage to its iconic predecessor, the 356. Alongside the Porsche Vision 357, the Speedster launches the brand’s anniversary-year celebrations with a clear nod to the brand’s history and a daring leap into the future.
The Speedster, referred to by Porsche’s Vice President of Style, Michael Mauer, as embodying “the essence of the brand,” represents a new era of design without compromising the brand’s distinctive DNA. “Driving pleasure and driving dynamics combined with an extremely pure form,” says Mauer, “this model demonstrates that even with fresh design genes, the Porsche DNA shines through.”
The Vision 357 Speedster is technologically based on the Porsche 718 GT4 e-Performance, with electric motors and battery technology sourced from the Mission R and the chassis from the 718 GT4 Clubsport. The world premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed will be followed by an appearance at this year’s Rennsport Reunion in the United States at the end of September.
In a striking embodiment of Porsche’s aesthetic philosophy, the exterior design features a shortened front windshield typical of a speedster, emphasizing the car’s sleek, monolithic body. A one-sided tonneau cover and an air-suspended driver’s headrest, enclosed within a carbon fiber roll-over element, reflect the car’s historic lineage while also introducing modern design elements. This balance between classic and contemporary is further mirrored in the two-color concept, with grey tones inspired by historic motorsport forerunners and Miami Blue accents.
The Vision 357 Speedster’s anniversary logo prominently features “75,” symbolizing the years since Porsche’s inception in 1948. Complementing this historical nod are unicorn graphics, designed specifically for the concept car by Porsche designers. These creative elements are paired with technological innovations, such as cameras replacing exterior mirrors, contributing to the car’s aerodynamically optimized shape.
The car’s track, wider than that of its predecessor, enhances driving stability. Its 20-inch magnesium wheels are equipped with carbon fiber hubcaps and center locks, harking back to the 356 A and 356 B’s notably large bolt circle of 205 millimeters. The Vision 357 Speedster boasts a rear brake light integrated into the vertical grill pattern, reminiscent of the first Porsche model line.
The Speedster’s interior is pared down and driver-focused. A sporty, low-slung seat position is combined with a carbon fiber reinforced plastic seat shell integrated into the monocoque. The driver is secured with a Miami Blue six-point seat belt, while the instrument cluster sits atop the steering column as a transparent surface. The dashboard, finished in carbon fiber, is complemented by Miami Blue straps in lieu of a conventional glove compartment, providing a practical space for securing accessories.
The debut of the Porsche Vision 357 Speedster marks a major milestone for the brand, as it effectively combines tradition with innovation. This concept car not only echoes Porsche’s rich history but also heralds a future filled with exciting e-Performance models, proving once again that the Porsche DNA continues to shine through.