Description
The Porsche 356B made its appearance in late 1959, with aesthetic and structural modifications more pronounced than those of its predecessor, the 356A. Initially designated under the bodystyle name T5, it stood out with raised bumpers fitted with wider protections, a more prominent front bonnet handle, and a revised interior layout. Although less elegant than its predecessors, the 356B was a tougher and more refined car, aimed at boosting Porsche’s appeal on a rapidly expanding global market. In 1962, Porsche launched the T6 bodystyle, which featured two grilles on the bonnet, a larger rear window, and a new position for the fuel filler on the right-hand front wing (rather than under the bonnet). Mechanically, the 356B retained the proven 1600 and 1600 S engines, but also introduced the high-performance Super 90, delivering more power and torque for a sporty drive. The 356B bridged the gap between the early Spartan 356s and the more refined era of the 911 to come.
The model we are offering for sale is a late-series 356B 1600 S-90 Reutter Cabriolet. This car was delivered new to the United States in a superb colour combination that is highly sought after: slate grey with a red interior. In addition, the car was equipped with the high-performance Super 90 engine. The Porsche arrived in Belgium in 2014 and subsequently underwent a complete restoration, which was completed in 2023. Since then, the car has covered around a thousand kilometres and is therefore still in absolutely immaculate condition. The original colour combination – according to the Porsche certificate of authenticity that accompanies it – was slate grey, and that colour was preserved for the restoration. The engine is no longer the original matching-number unit, but a even-better engine sourced from a 1964 Porsche 356 SC, and therefore from the 95 hp version. All was overhauled during the restoration, and the car seems to have just left the production line.
Only 3, 100 examples of the 356B T6 Cabriolet were built, and it remains a highly sought-after classic. This 356 is in excellent condition, presents a superb colour combination and is 100% ready to be enjoyed this summer.
