Being part of this year’s Porsche display at the Goodwood Festival of Speed was nothing short of an awe-inspiring experience. The 30th anniversary of the Festival of Speed coincided with Porsche’s celebration of 75 years of its first sports car – the 356. As attendees, we were delighted to see firsthand how Porsche, as the honored marque of the event, dazzled onlookers with a host of activities. From the heart-pounding thrill of the 1.16-mile hill climb to breathtaking static displays, our journey immersed us deep in the rich and exhilarating world of Porsche.
- Porsche’s first sports car, the 1948 356 No 1, took to the Goodwood hill climb, marking its iconic course.
- An impressive assortment of road cars, including the 718 Spyder RS and 911 GT3 RS, showcased the modern evolution of Porsche.
- A unique digital work of art, the 356 “Art Car”, encapsulates the innovative spirit of Porsche’s original vision.
This year, the Festival of Speed turned 30, coinciding with Porsche’s 75th celebration of its first sports car – the 356. Porsche, the celebrated marque at this year’s festival, presented an array of thrilling activities. “This fantastic opportunity to connect with Porsche admirers and enthusiasts in the UK has been kindly provided by Goodwood,” said Krishan Bodhani, CEO of Porsche Cars Great Britain. The Duke of Richmond and Gordon, the festival host, acknowledged Porsche’s unwavering support since 1995.
Porsche on the hill
At the heart of the event, a 1.16 mile hill climb challenged and entertained Porsche owners and fans. Among the models that conquered the famous Goodwood hill were the first Porsche sports car, the 1948 356 No 1, and the later 718 Spyder RS. Alongside the cars illustrating Porsche’s 75-year journey were the latest 911 GT3 RS and the new 911 Dakar. Other notable models include the mid-engined 718 GT4 RS with Manthey kit and the new Cayenne S.
Exhibitions beyond imagination
Along with the high-action footage, Porsche presented an unrivaled collection of exhibits around the Goodwood site. This year’s bespoke sculpture, designed by Gerry Judah, featured six cars symbolizing Porsche’s 75-year history. Among the showcases of the latest Porsche models, fans marveled at the futuristic Mission X concept. The Vision 357 Speedster, an all-electric model with influences from the 356, also made its world debut at the event.
Porsche & Goodwood: artistic expression
The festival also saw the birth of the 356 “Art Car”, a floral interpretation capturing the essence of Ferry Porsche’s dream. Digital artist Lusion chronicled Ferry Porsche’s journey from idea to reality through immersive digital art. This blossoming vision, named ‘Flower 356’, was an exciting presentation on the Porsche stand. Various historic racing cars from Porsche’s 75th anniversary, such as the 917 and 919 Hybrid, have also honored the hill climb.
Celebrate Porsche heritage with a parade in Goodwood
A unique Porsche parade, led by the 356 No 1, climbed the famous hill twice a day. Notably, the millionth 911, 991, was driven by Porsche Ambassador and golfer Paul Casey. High winds caused the festival to be canceled on Saturday, but regular proceedings resumed on Sunday. GTspirit editor Zaid Hamid took to the parades and Porsche Moment on Thursday and Friday in the Cayenne Transsyberia and the gorgeous 993 Turbo S, both sent from the Porsche Museum.
Overcoming challenges at Goodwood
Fifteen cars were moved to the West Dean College media base, which also hosted interviews and car design workshops. Some cars, including the 917/30, were demonstrated offsite, while others were available for rides on the West Dean estate. After the productive Saturday, the cars returned to the festival for guests to enjoy on Sunday. Porsche and Goodwood have thus proven to be a resilient and adaptive collaboration and a celebration of automotive history.
