Beschreibung
DESCRIPTION
The 356 can fairly be described as the car that put Porsche on the map, its unconventional rear-mounted flat-four engine starting a tradition that continues to the present day. The earliest 356s were somewhat underpowered and very primitive in terms of equipment but, by the late 1950s, had matured into an altogether more sophisticated sports car, with plenty of creature comforts. In September 1959, the most radical development of the 356 was announced at the Frankfurt Motor Show, with an entirely restyled body – designated the T5 – featuring different bumpers and revised front wings with the headlamps mounted higher up. In 1961, Porsche also announced a Roadster variant to fill the gap between the spartan Speedster and the more luxurious Cabriolet, joining the existing Coupe. The chassis also underwent some revision and the tendency towards oversteer was reduced (radial tyres as standard fitment helped in this regard), while the floorpan was altered to increase rear passenger space. This new 356B was available with three different pushrod engines, the 1600 and 1600S continuing unchanged but with the addition of the new Super 90 featuring twin-choke carburettors, larger inlet valves and a reworked cylinder head to increase power output. The brakes were improved, with better friction linings and the drums now had 72 light alloy ribs to keep them cool.
HISTORY
- 1961 Porsche 356B Twin Grille coupe
- Rubin Red
- Engine matching numbers
- Nice example
Originally delivered new to Competition Motors in Hollywood, California, this 1961 Porsche 356B ‘Twin Grille’ coupe is a nice example still fitted with its original matching numbers 1600S engine. Now converted to right-hand drive, it presents in very nice condition throughout, its dark Rubin Red paintwork in good condition as are the chrome hubcaps on steel wheels. There is a little pitting to the doorhandles and chrome window trim, and some perishing to the rubbers. Inside, the Black Leatherette interior is complete and in good shape, with just a little patina here and there. This car also came factory-fitted with the “verl. Lenksaule” (extended steering column) option. It’s from the first year of the 356B model and “Twin Grille” refers to the pair of vertical vents on the rear engine cover. It is complete and in good but not concours condition, giving the owner the option of simply driving it as is or bringing it up to a show-winner. This 1961 Porsche 356B Twin Grille coupe is being offered for sale here unregistered.
Note: Shannons advise that all potential buyers research all vehicles before purchase to authenticate originality.
