With Ford and GM losing billions and millions respectively, one might think competition is turning the car game into one of slim pickings for profits. Not so, says Porsche, and posts profits of 2.7 billion dollars.

What’s their secret? One overarching design that’s been stable for 40 years and just three current lines: Cayenne, 911, Boxster/Cayman. That simple recipe has made Porsche the most profitable (per unit) car maker in the world.

They’re doing so well in fact, that this “little” sports-car maker has just increased its stake in the German giant VW to 30%. Not too shabby from a niche company that sold just ~2,500 cars in October for North America/Canada.