For Porsche owners, the key to our beloved car is just as iconic as the car itself. If you're fortunate enough to be a multi-Porsche family (especially a family with varying generations of Porsches) then you know the look and shape of the key alone is enough to help you pick the right key for the right Porsche every time you head out for a drive.

A recent story in Porsche's newsroom website called "The key to it all" goes into the details and unique features of Porsche's keys. The thing is, in our mind, their features aren't that unique. Sure newer keys can open doors remotely, pop the trunk, remember how your power seat is set, etc., etc. But so can most other keys be it a Honda Accord or a Porsche 911. In my mind what makes each Porsche key unique is the shape and what that shape conveys about the driving experience you're about to embark on. It addition, it's a clear indicator as to how each successive generation of Porsche models have become more and more complex over the years. Beginning with the key that started it all to today's multi-function, shape mimicking 991 key fob here's a rundown of how Porsche keys have changed over the years*.

356: The first key from Porsche with embossed brand mark

The first 911: The ur-key of the 356 was also used for the 911 up to 1969**

G model: The first key with a plastic head and integrated LED courtesy lighting

964: A purely mechanical key (without remote control) with integrated LED courtesy lighting

993: The first key with remote control (lock/unlock) from Porsche also has an integrated engine immobilizer function

996: A classic remote- control key that also opens the hood and operates the convertible top

997: This key with remote controlled lock/unlock had the latest encryption technology before Entry & Drive was introduced

991: The current key features an integrated Porsche Entry & Drive function, a series-specific button structure, and the latest encryption technology

*Obviously, this is only a short list of keys and doesn't cover all variations. However, the images were provided by Porsche so it's all we had to work with in this instance. In addition, certain keys, such as the Porsche 993 key, were different based on the options ordered with the car.

**In 1970, at least in the US, the key changed to the more familiar rounded rectangular shaped head with red or black rubber coating.

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[Source: Porsche]