Porsche history is rather ugly and sordid pre 1960?
Huh?
For road cars, the 356A (including the legendary Speedster) and 550A Spyder are considered all time greats.
Racing history: Are you sure you want to go there?
1955 Le Mans. Porsche 550's were 4, 5 and 6 overall with HALF displacement compared to their competitors.
1956 Le Mans. Porsche 550 (5 overall) beat a Mike Hawthorn drive Jaguar D-Type (6 overall).
1958 Le Mans. Porsche RS and RSK's came in 3, 4 and 5 overall beating the legendary Ferrari 250 and 500 Testarossas which had twice the displacement and V-12s.
Many people rightfully consider Porsche history to be at its finest pre 1960. The company had little resources and little engines, yet were giant killers. To me, that is a much 'cooler' history than the 1970's when 917's just dominated with money and horsepower.