Highlights
- Rare factory right-hand drive example
- Desirable early T5 bodyshell
- Confirmed to be a matching numbers example
- In current ownership for twelve years
- Has recently undergone an extensive restoration costing in excess of R745,000
- Exemplary condition throughout
- Fitted with sports seats that are re-trimmed to exact standards
- Original seats included in sale
- Correct Colour
The Appeal
The early 356's, such as this car here, retained the T5 bodyshell and are as a result far more desirable than the later models. This example, originally built in 1960, has been subject to a simply exceptional restoration, amounting to over 745,000 South African Rand - the result is a car finished to amongst some of the best standards we’ve seen.
The History and Paperwork
- Rolled of the production line in 1960
- It was delivered to SA new in 1961
- The car has been in current ownership for 12 years
- No expense spared restoration completed in 2021
- 02,503 run-in miles since restoration
- The car comes complete with a full record of the restoration in the form of invoices
- Copy of Kardex confirming matching number engine available on request
The Interior
- Rich red interior, fully restored
- Fitted with red sports seats, though the originals are provided
- Wood-trimmed steering wheel with Porsche branding
Beautifully presented in a rich red, that contrasts perfectly against its exterior paintwork, this cabin may not quite be the epitome of luxury, but is a superb example of top-notch, practical 1960s trimming. With red leather seats, red carpets and a tidy dashboard, it’s a simply fabulous time capsule.
As it’s all been so recently restored, it should be no wonder that the car’s interior is in excellent order. The instruments are clear and easy to read, matched up with a period radio and tactile switches, while the dashboard itself is clean and nicely kept. It’s all completed with the addition of a wood-trimmed, Porsche branded steering wheel, which really looks the part.
All of the seating and upholstery is in excellent condition, with no rips or tears - the front seats are sports seats, but the car will be provided with the originals upon sale - which were retrimmed to the same standard. The seller informs us that the leather and carpets were also imported from Germany.
The carpets and headlining look to be in superb order, and the ‘frunk’ is in great condition, boasting a spare wheel, jack, tool kit and a 6-volt battery maintainer.
The Exterior
- Highly presented cream paintwork
- Period condition, restored to an excellent standard
- Spare bumper with over-riders included in sale
Beautifully presented, this 356B is a coupe with real class. Everything has been beautifully restored to an excellent standard, with the bodywork being tightly knit and free of dents or dings. The paintwork is clean and nicely kept, with no chips, cracks or major losses we can spot across the board.
The car’s chromework, glasswork and lenses all look to be in good order, maintaining a period ethos that really captures the car’s character. We can’t spot any meaningful wear and tear, nor any chips and fractures.
The car is sat on its period-accurate wheels, which are complete with Porsche branding, and is wearing a full set of Bridgestone tyres - all of which have no shortage of tread.
If you’re a fan of nice, clean metal, the underside is sure to prove a treat. We can’t spot any signs of corrosion and any wear is absolutely minimal - which lines up nicely to the clearly comprehensive restoration job.
The Mechanics
- Powered by the 1.6L Type 616/2 B4 powerplant
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Completely rebuilt
Fully rebuilt, a look under the bonnet reveals that all-important B4 in fine fettle, with everything in nice, clean order. We’ve no reports of any leaks, knocks, smoke or bangs from the car, and the vendor informs us that it’s a perfectly smooth drive, with nothing untoward.
It certainly looks to be a superb restoration through and through, and we’ve no doubt will get a lot of Porsche fans very excited.
Summary
Beautifully presented, restored and retrimmed, this Porsche maintains an exceptional level of period detail, while being in such fine condition that you’d be forgiven for seeing it as a new car. It’s sure to attract plenty of interest - and, for our money, may be one of the finest we’ve seen.
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.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
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