Not only did the Porsche 959 establish the blueprint for Porsche’s modern-day sports cars, it did so for the entire sports car industry. Unveiled in 1983, the 959 featured forward-thinking technologies such as an all-wheel drive system, a 450-horsepower turbocharged flat-6, magnesium wheels and run-flat tires. Even the body -- while common-looking today -- was incredibly advanced due to its slippery shape, flush headlamps and integrated bumpers. Porsche built a little over 200 models to meet FIA homologation requirements, but the car never achieved certification for North America. In 1998, a new U.S. law allowed cars like the 959 to be brought over under a “Show & Display” status, finally allowing us Yanks to enjoy a true icon of automotive history.
