The 356 Speedster has long occupied a small but perfectly formed slot in the Porsche hall of fame, particularly in America where it fused post-war Teutonic efficiency with Fifties glam Americana.

It was Porsche's US importer who suggested the idea; a simple, no frills take on the then current 356 model ideally suited to the sun-kissed environment of California.

To market the car at a more affordable price, Porsche stripped all unnecessary comforts from within, fitted bucket seats (and not much else) and gave it the bare minimum of weather protection.

The result was not only a distinctive and hugely popular car but also one that, thanks to its keen power to weight ratio, was often to be found in minor sports car races on the weekends.

Jump forward a few decades and a more up to date version appeared using the next legendary model nomenclature.

The 911 Speedster, a low-roof version of the Cabriolet, was produced in limited numbers (2,104) starting in January 1989 until July 1989 as ...