Though it might not look like anything other than a strangely pristine 964, this silver Carrera holds a special place in Porsche history. As the last birthday present gifted to Louise Piëch née Porsche, daughter of Ferdinand and sister of Ferry, it is the last car of a matriarch with a unique flair for life.
This special Porsche now belongs to Clemens Frigge, a dedicated Porschephile. Unfortunately, the previous owners simply didn’t realized the true value of Ferry’s last gift to Louise. In fact, the 964 stood around for a whole year at a dealership!
Massively understated, simple, and elegant; Louise’s last Porsche blends in effortlessly into the Westphalian landscape.
The history of this Porsche is remarkable. During her final years, she dedicated plenty of time to touring through the picturesque surroundings of Lake Zell, where the gifted artist parked this silver 964 when inspired by a particularly beautiful vista, sketched the scenery, and returned to her jaunt. These artworks later became much sought-after collector’s items among the Porsche workforce. Louise liked to use these miniature paintings as Christmas cards for the company’s employees. What an incredible way to spend one’s twilight years after a fruitful life.
From 1952 onwards, the mother of four acted as the managing director of Porsche Holding in Austria. “Resolutely straightforward and not afraid of causing offence” according to her former colleagues, she was known for her inimitable motivation and leadership skills, extreme prudence, and business know-how.
Custom tailored to Louise’s liking, this understated 964’s seats are upholstered in an unusual fabric that’s both bizarre and beautiful. Instead of all-leather seats, a mottled mother-of-pearl fabric was chosen—highly reminiscent of a 1970’s office curtain—and was indeed employed as such in the office rooms used by members of the Piëch and Porsche families.
An odd choice of fabrics inside is divisive, but appealing in its own way. While the subtle purple shimmer to the paint, and the white leather accents inside might turn some stomachs, they are an intriguing set of design choices from an appropriately intriguing woman.
Louise in 1987.
