Photos provided by the vendor
Highlights
- Later Series B example of the first production Porsche
- Part-restored example with some work still required
- Original interior in red metal and black leather
The Appeal
In 1948, automotive history was made. The first-ever production Porsche rolled out of the workshop and created a legend. These beautifully engineered German cars really did set one of the world’s biggest brands into motion - which should tell you how superb they really are.
This example comes to us in solid order with its original interior, though will need some work to bring it to top condition. Thanks to that rich red colour scheme and bright chromework, it’s an utterly superb looker, and immediately charmed us at first sight!
The History and Paperwork
- Purchased by current owner in 1987
- Subject to a thorough restoration
- The vendor informs us that the engine was last serviced in 2020
- He also tells us that the brakes were last serviced in 2022
- Currently displaying 20,168km on a five-figure odometer
- Original registration document included in sale
The Interior
- Attractive period metal interior with black leather seating
- Completely unmodified example
- Original period radio
The world of the 356 is a very evocative one, and this car immediately envelopes you back to the 60s. A painted metal dash, beset with a pleasing array of VDO gauges and dials with luminous green lettering and numerals, surrounded by wonderfully tactile switches and knobs.
Black leather bucket seats are still sitting comfortably in their mounts. The leather has a light patina with the odd divot in its padding or rubbing in the covers. The mounts are slightly corroded with some wear to their fixings. The carpets beneath are in good condition and show relatively light wear, which continues through to the leather and vinyl door cards, with the caveat of some light pitting and clouding to the chrome. We did observe that the rear shelf could do with new mats, though it’s of very little consequence to the car.
Sadly we haven't been informed as to whether a spare is included with the vehicle.
The dashboard instruments are clean and bright, and all very legible. The paintwork on the dash seems to be in good order too, and a period-correct radio, suspected to be the original, is held in its mount. Finally, all of this is completed with a three-spoke Porsche steering wheel, complete with branding.
The Exterior
- Bright red paintwork with chrome accents
- Rear-engine with a front-facing fuel tank
- Beautiful bright chrome and plenty of Porsche branding set an impressive tone
There’s no doubting the aesthetics of this fabulous Porsche. Smooth rounded shapes, with those ever-iconic, sloping double-glass Bosch headlights giving the first indication of the brand’s legendary design ethics. The Series B includes twin grills on the engine compartment cover, and bigger rear windows. These gentle changes only seem to ascend the car’s design, as well as setting it in stone as a later production example.
While the rich red paintwork is very seductive, and the motor's shape are instantly appealing, this example does have some faults to note - the doors appear to be ill-fitted, which may be a sign of some wear to the relevant panels. The bonnet is showing heavy signs of corrosion with some perforation, and will likely need to be replaced. We do note some very gentle scratches here and there, particularly around the doors - but these do little to detract from the car’s overall condition. The chromework contains a little bit of patina, especially on the bumpers, while the branding could do with a polish-up.
The car is sitting on what we assume to be its original chrome-plated wheels, which are still bright and boast the Porsche insignia on the centre. These are wearing a good set of tyres. The underneath looks to be solid, with no structural concerns to report. We note some surface pitting and corrosion, but for a car of this vintage, it looks like a good example.
The Mechanics
- Powered by the 1.6L Type 616/12 B4 Engine
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Engine reportedly underwent servicing and inspection in 2020
- The vendor tells us that the brakes were serviced in 2022
- No known mechanical alterations
- The engine bay is in good order with only minor signs of wear - mostly paint loss
- The bonnet is heavily corroded to its lip, with some perforation, and may need replacement.
The current owner has undergone a lot of work to keep this car in good mechanical order. He reports that the car starts, shifts, drives and brakes exactly as expected, with no faults to report.
Summary
It’s fair to say that the 356 had an enormous impact on automobile history. If you’ve not yet explored this superb, trendsetter of a sports car, this is a great opportunity.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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