The Evolution of Disc Brakes in Automotive History

Back in 1962, disc brakes were not a new concept, as they had already been tested by Jaguar and Dunlop in motorsport events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans a decade earlier. However, Porsche had been sticking to traditional drum brakes for most of its vehicles, citing cost-effectiveness as a key factor.

The Shift to Disc Brakes

Despite the success of drum brakes, Porsche eventually made the transition to disc brakes for their vehicles. This shift marked a significant change in the company’s approach to braking technology and paved the way for improved performance and safety on the road.

Benefits of Disc Brakes

Disc brakes offer several advantages over drum brakes, including better heat dissipation, reduced brake fade, and improved braking performance in various driving conditions. These benefits ultimately led Porsche to embrace disc brakes as a standard feature in their vehicles.

Continued Innovation

As technology continues to advance, Porsche has not stopped at disc brakes. The company has explored other braking technologies, such as the use of Formula 1 brakes on street cars, showcasing their commitment to innovation and excellence in automotive engineering.

For more information on Porsche’s journey with disc brakes, click here.