Description
One of only 1, 331 Porsche 356A Convertible D models
Desirable 1600 Super model
Matching numbers (original engine and gearbox)
Ex-California 'Black Plate' car
Professionally maintained with no expense spared
Comprehensive history file
Complete Engine Rebuild by Prill Porsche Classics
Cabriolets had been manufactured right from the start of 356 production, but the first open Porsche to make a significant impact was the Speedster, introduced in 1954. With its sales declining, the Speedster was dropped in 1958 and replaced by the more civilised Convertible D, which differed principally by virtue of its larger windscreen and winding side windows, the latter replacing the Speedster's side-screens. All in all, the 356A Convertible D was a somewhat more practical and comfortable car than the Speedster, while at the same time retaining the original's beautiful body lines and downward sloping waistline so beloved of Type 356 enthusiasts.
With its preferred coachbuilder Reutter struggling to keep up with the ever increasing demand, Porsche sub-contracted cabriolet body construction to a number of different coachbuilders, Convertible D production being undertaken by Drauz of Heilbronn, hence the 'D' suffix. When the restyled Porsche 356B arrived in September 1959, convertible production transferred to d'Ieteren of Brussels. The 356A Convertible D model is one the rarest of Porsche 356 models, with only 1, 331 made between August 1958 and September 1959. It is ironic that those 356 models that were the least expensive 'back in the day' - the Roadster, Speedster and Convertible D - are now some of the most costly.
Originally finished in Silver Metallic (5706), chassis number '86678' was supplied new via Porsche main dealer Georg Rittersbacher in Kaiserslautern, West Germany to a US serviceman stationed there. He took the Porsche back to California (it qualifies as a 'Black Plate' car) where it remained until 1989, winning 1st place concours awards at Fresno, Oakland, Monterey and Santa Cruz (list on file). On arrival in the UK the car underwent a bare-metal respray in the period-correct colour of Ruby Red.
The Porsche has always been well maintained and kept in original condition. From 2006 to 2016, when our vendor bought the car from Taylor & Crawley, renowned marque specialists Maxted-Page & Prill Limited maintained it for a succession of owners in the UK, all of whom seem to have taken a no-expense-spared approach to its upkeep. During this period the interior was fitted with correct square-weave carpet; the underside and interior cavities all fully rust-protected and treated with Waxoyl; and the car regularly serviced and tuned with no expense spared. Since 2016 maintenance has been entrusted to Prill Porsche Classics including a complete engine rebuild. All work carried out is fully documented by the accompanying comprehensive history file of invoices, expired MoTs, UK V5C Registration Certificates and other material. A wonderful opportunity to own a highly original and exceptionally well maintained example of this rare and desirable Porsche classic.
Please note that if this vehicle remains within Belgium the reduced rate of Import VAT at 6% will be charged on the hammer price. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, the VAT amount will be calculated based on your registered country's rate. Import rates to other EU Countries may vary and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances with the Bonhams Customs Agents. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.
NOTICE COLLECTIONS, TRANSPORT AND STORAGE Purchases will only be released when cleared funds are received.
MOTOR CARS & MOTORCYCLES
All vehicles must be collected from the Bonhams|Cars Marquee by 12noon on Monday 9 October 2023. Customers must notify BY EMAIL ONLY to Suzanne Kress , using the button below, no later than 8pm on the day of the Sale.
Please note that if Suzanne Kress hasn't received your notification on Sunday evening, all vehicles will be automatically removed to a temporary storage facility by the logistics company EXCLUTRANS BV on Monday 9 October at your expense and risk.
ADMINISTRATION AND UPLIFT FROM THE VENUE
€185 + VAT per motor car/ motorcycle
STORAGE CHARGES
First 14 days
€25 + VAT per motor car/ motorcycle per day
Payment of the uplift & storage charges and transport must be arranged with EXCLUTRANS BV. Collection is strictly by appointment only and at least 24-hours notice must be given.
POINT OF CONTACT TO ORGANISE STORAGE FEES' PAYMENT & COLLECTION
THEO VAN DEN EECKHOUT – EXCLUTRANS BV
+32 9 232 01 71
using the button below
POINT OF CONTACT FOR CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
JORIS EYSERMANS - FIBONACCI
+32 460 96 18 40
using the button below
POINT OF CONTACT REGARDING THE ORIGINAL REGISTRATION DOCUMENTS OF YOUR PURCHASE(S)
SUZANNE KRESS – BONHAMS|CARS
+33 1 42 61 10 11
Susing the button below
POINT OF CONTACT REGARDING PAYMENTS
CHERYL UGGLES - BONHAMS|CARS – CREDIT CONTROLLER
+44 the details below
using the button below
IMPORTANT CARS UNDER CUSTOMS BOND
Lots 103, 104, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 119, 124, 134, 145, 150, 151, 155, 169, 185, 186
• Please note that for lots which are subject to the normal local duty/ import tax on Hammer Price : as Bonhams|Cars is the guarantor of the customs duties and taxes clearance, these motor cars cannot be released to the buyer or his transporter immediately after the sale.
• For these cars, collection by the buyer or a third party is only possible if import taxes are paid.
• These motor cars cannot be released to the buyer or his transporter immediately after the sale.
• Please keep in mind that it takes a couple of days to clear customs.
• Please send us from now your clearance instructions.
For all enquiries relating to Customs, be they administrative or legal, please contact:
FIBONACCI
Joris Eysermans
+32 460 96 18 40
using the button below
