Produced for less than two years, the Porsche 356B in its T5 iteration is one of the rarer variants of the early Stuttgart model around. It features up to date 356B styling with several idiosyncrasies from older models such as a single grille on the engine cover and a larger bonnet that hides the fuel filler cap.
As a result of the car’s low production numbers and modern scarcity, it is one of the most sought after 356 models. Not only that, but this car is finished in a particularly unique specification of Slate Grey paint paired with a Bordeaux red interior.
Having recently been restored after spending a quarter of a century in a German barn, the car is now in great condition patrolling French roads. Perfect for a Porsche collector, this car is certainly unlike any other of its kind.
The History and Paperwork
Originally registered in Switzerland in 1961
3 owners from new
Imported to Germany by its second owner
Spent the past 25 years in a German barn
Purchased as a barn find by the current owner in 2021
Large-scale restoration completed in 2022 includes engine rebuild and full respray
In its original specification
Fully registered in France
Many documents with the car
Original service booklet
Several invoices from recent work done totalling over €5,000
Many photos from the barnfind condition and restoration process
The Interior
In its original condition
Lots of attractive patina
Bordeaux red specification sets the car apart
After purchasing the car in 2021 in barn find condition, the current owner went about fully restoring it whilst making the decision to omit the interior. As a result, it presents in a delightfully original condition with plenty of attractive patina.
There are some marks and signs of wear and tear to be found throughout the cabin. But for the most part, it presents in great shape for its age, the current owner even rating it as a 7 out of 10.
Carpets, seats and even the door cards, everything is finished in a bright Bordeaux red that provides a lovely contrast to the flatter Slate Grey exterior paint. This pairs nicely with the black dashboard top and steering wheel rim. Light cream headlining caps off the interior specification displaying some signs of wear and discoloration, nothing a good clean won’t resolve.
From the factory, this car came with the chrome ring horn on the wheel which reportedly still functions today. Furthermore, the original radio is still present in the centre console and works just as well as the day it was fitted. All the dials look clean and, whilst showing some scuff marks here and there, the controls such as the steering wheel, gear shifter, pedals and buttons all look good also.
Under the bonnet, one will find the spare wheel along with the car’s original jack and toolkit.
The Exterior
Slate grey, rarely seen colour on a 356 Porsche
Rare single grille 356 design
Fully restored body and paintwork
As aforementioned, this 356B is one of just a few examples to feature the older-style grille and bonnet design. The larger bonnet means that one must open the front end to access the fuel filler cap whilst the engine cover features a single, larger grille. These design quirks alone make this a rare model. But the specification and overall condition enhance that further.
In fact, the car is finished in a fresh coat of Slate Grey paint and this very original car presents in near-showroom condition from the outside. The chrome accents throughout shine brilliantly and stand out against the darker paint tone. A fresh set of Hankook tyres are fitted to the four wheels which present in great condition and a further fifth new tyre features on the spare wheel.
The owner was keen to point out the amount of work that went into this car’s chassis last year. And in fact, it does look relatively clean from the underside. Just some minor surface corrosion in very small spots show up from what we can tell.
The Mechanics
1.6-litre air-cooled flat-four, 75hp
Engine was fully rebuilt in 2022
Original 6-volt system
Just above the rear axle of this gorgeous 356B sits the car’s engine after having been totally rebuilt no more than two years ago. The 1.6-litre air-cooled flat-four should produce something in the region of 75hp in the 356 1600 Super specification.
Thanks to the overhauled engine, the car is said to be very reliable and it should make for a fantastically authentic driving experience. In fact, a four-speed manual transmission and original drum brakes mean one will get the original Porsche feeling behind the wheel of this gorgeous classic.
Whereas many cars of the era have seen their electric systems upgraded to 12-volt, this car remains true to its original roots. The owner has preserved the 6-volt system.
Summary
An already rare model thanks to the single rear grille and larger bonnet, this car presents in a stunning specification and in great condition. In fact after making its way to France from Germany in 2021, it has been restored from its barn find state to the level it is now today. A highly sought after car, it is sure to make a collector very happy.
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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