The 1980s was a decade of big hair, big phones, and even bigger personalities. One such personality that made a lasting impression on the small screen was Matt Houston, the titular character of the popular television series that aired from 1982 to 1985. Played by actor Lee Horsley, Matt Houston was a wealthy oil tycoon with a penchant for solving mysteries and fighting crime in his spare time. But what really made Matt Houston stand out was his iconic ride – a custom 1956 Porsche 356 Speedster.
The Porsche 356 Speedster: A Car Fit for a Tycoon
The Porsche 356 Speedster was a sleek and stylish car that perfectly complemented Matt Houston’s charming and adventurous personality. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and rich history, the Speedster was the perfect vehicle for a wealthy oil tycoon like Matt Houston. But what made this car truly special was its custom design, which was tailored to fit Matt Houston’s unique style and preferences.
A Brief History of the Porsche 356 Speedster
The Porsche 356 Speedster was first introduced in 1954 as a more affordable and sporty alternative to the traditional Porsche 356 coupe. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and lightweight body, the Speedster quickly gained popularity among car enthusiasts and racing enthusiasts alike. The Speedster’s popularity continued to grow throughout the 1950s and 1960s, with many owners customizing their vehicles to suit their individual tastes and preferences.
Customizing the Speedster for Matt Houston
For the television series, the producers wanted a car that would reflect Matt Houston’s personality and style. They chose a 1956 Porsche 356 Speedster and customized it to fit Matt Houston’s unique tastes. The car was painted a sleek black color and featured a custom interior design, complete with luxurious leather seats and a state-of-the-art sound system. The car’s engine was also modified to give it an extra boost of power, making it the perfect vehicle for Matt Houston’s high-speed adventures.
Why the Porsche 356 Speedster Was the Perfect Car for Matt Houston
So why did the producers choose the Porsche 356 Speedster as Matt Houston’s iconic ride? There are several reasons why this car was the perfect fit for the character.
- Style and Sophistication: The Porsche 356 Speedster was a sleek and stylish car that perfectly complemented Matt Houston’s charming and sophisticated personality. Its sleek design and luxurious interior made it the perfect vehicle for a wealthy oil tycoon like Matt Houston.
- Power and Performance: The Speedster’s powerful engine and lightweight body made it the perfect car for Matt Houston’s high-speed adventures. Whether he was racing through the streets of Los Angeles or chasing down bad guys, the Speedster was always up to the task.
Impact on Popular Culture
The Porsche 356 Speedster’s appearance on the television series Matt Houston had a significant impact on popular culture. The car’s sleek design and luxurious interior made it a status symbol, and many car enthusiasts and collectors began to seek out their own Speedsters. The car’s popularity continued to grow throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with many owners customizing their vehicles to fit their individual tastes and preferences.
Legacy of the Porsche 356 Speedster
Today, the Porsche 356 Speedster is a highly sought-after collector’s item, with many owners willing to pay top dollar for a restored or customized model. The car’s legacy continues to live on, with many car enthusiasts and collectors seeking out their own Speedsters to restore and customize. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a collector, or simply a fan of the television series Matt Houston, the Porsche 356 Speedster is a car that is sure to impress.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Porsche 356 Speedster was the perfect car for Matt Houston, reflecting his charming and adventurous personality. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and luxurious interior, the Speedster was the perfect vehicle for a wealthy oil tycoon like Matt Houston. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a collector, or simply a fan of the television series, the Porsche 356 Speedster is a car that is sure to impress. So the next time you’re watching an episode of Matt Houston, be sure to keep an eye out for this iconic ride – it’s a true classic.
What is the iconic ride of Matt Houston?
The iconic ride of Matt Houston is a 1956 Porsche 356 Speedster. This car is a rare and highly sought-after model, known for its sleek design and powerful engine. The Porsche 356 Speedster is a convertible sports car that was produced from 1954 to 1958.
The car’s sleek design and powerful engine made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts in the 1950s. The Porsche 356 Speedster was also known for its agility and handling, making it a favorite among racing enthusiasts. The car’s iconic status was further cemented by its appearance in the popular TV show “Matt Houston,” where it was driven by the show’s main character.
What is the TV show “Matt Houston” about?
“Matt Houston” is a TV series that aired from 1982 to 1985. The show is a crime drama that follows the adventures of Matt Houston, a wealthy oil tycoon who solves crimes in his spare time. The show was known for its blend of action, mystery, and humor, and it quickly became a fan favorite.
The show’s main character, Matt Houston, was played by actor Lee Horsley. Houston was a charismatic and resourceful character who used his wealth and intelligence to solve crimes and bring perpetrators to justice. The show also featured a supporting cast of characters, including Houston’s friends and allies, who helped him in his crime-solving endeavors.
Why is the Porsche 356 Speedster so rare?
The Porsche 356 Speedster is a rare car because it was produced in limited numbers. The car was produced from 1954 to 1958, and only 4,822 units were made during that time. The car’s rarity is also due to its age, as many of the original models have been lost or destroyed over the years.
The Porsche 356 Speedster is also highly sought after by collectors, which has driven up its value. The car’s rarity and value have made it a highly prized possession among car enthusiasts, and it is considered a true classic of the automotive world.
What makes the Porsche 356 Speedster so iconic?
The Porsche 356 Speedster is an iconic car because of its sleek design and powerful engine. The car’s design was influenced by the Porsche 356, which was the company’s first production car. The Speedster’s design was streamlined and aerodynamic, making it a popular choice among racing enthusiasts.
The Porsche 356 Speedster is also iconic because of its association with the TV show “Matt Houston.” The car was driven by the show’s main character, and it became a symbol of the show’s blend of action, mystery, and humor. The car’s iconic status has been cemented by its appearance in numerous films, TV shows, and advertisements.
How much is the Porsche 356 Speedster worth?
The value of the Porsche 356 Speedster can vary depending on its condition, rarity, and provenance. In general, the car can sell for anywhere from $100,000 to over $1 million. The car’s value is driven by its rarity, condition, and demand from collectors.
The Porsche 356 Speedster is a highly sought-after car, and its value is likely to continue to appreciate over time. The car’s iconic status and association with the TV show “Matt Houston” have made it a highly prized possession among car enthusiasts, and it is considered a true classic of the automotive world.
Is the Porsche 356 Speedster still in production?
No, the Porsche 356 Speedster is no longer in production. The car was produced from 1954 to 1958, and it has been out of production for over 60 years. However, Porsche has produced several modern cars that pay homage to the 356 Speedster, including the Porsche Boxster and the Porsche 718 Cayman.
While the Porsche 356 Speedster is no longer in production, it remains a highly sought-after car among collectors and enthusiasts. The car’s iconic status and association with the TV show “Matt Houston” have made it a true classic of the automotive world, and it continues to be celebrated by car enthusiasts around the world.
Can I buy a replica of the Porsche 356 Speedster?
Yes, it is possible to buy a replica of the Porsche 356 Speedster. There are several companies that produce replicas of the car, using a combination of original and modern parts. These replicas can be a more affordable option for car enthusiasts who want to own a piece of automotive history.
However, it’s worth noting that replicas of the Porsche 356 Speedster may not be exact copies of the original car. They may use modern materials and technologies, and they may not have the same level of authenticity as an original 356 Speedster. Nevertheless, replicas can be a fun and affordable way for car enthusiasts to experience the thrill of owning a classic car.