Very rare Karmann Hardtop: one of just 1,048 made in 1961
Matching numbers example. Fitted with the desirable 1600 S 75 HP engine
California-delivered vehicle
Single ownership since 2008
The Appeal
Among the 356B variants, the Karmann Hardtops stand as one of the rarest, with a production run lasting less than two years between August 1960 and June 1962. These cars are distinguished by their unusual roofline, derived from the fact they were effectively a cabriolet body with a hardtop roof welded on. With so few built, these cars are vanishingly rare and therefore highly collectable.
We're delighted to offer one of the mere 1,048 T5 bodied Hardtop Coupés built in 1961. This Porsche was supplied new to California, USA, in left-hand drive. Remarkably, it remains matching numbers, also retaining its factory coachwork, which previous owners report has never required any welding.
The car was imported to Italy in 1995 and has been in single ownership since 2008. With minimal use in recent years, the vendor summarises this 356 to be: "A collector-worthy example in clean condition, poised for its next chapter."
Has undergone a repaint at some point to a good standard
Paintwork shows minor imperfections and typical signs of wear
No significant scratches or dents visible, according to the vendor
Underside coated with black underbody protection and remains clean overall
Aftermarket hazard warning light added under the steering column
JSE speakers installed
Kept in dry storage for an extended period
Spare wheel and jack included
This Porsche's red paintwork is most fitting for the period it hails from, showing off those lesser-seen Karmann Hardtop lines. As the photographs attest, this car presents immensely well, with a gentle patina as befits its vintage. The vendor was informed that the original Karmann coachwork had never required welding, which may well be the case, considering this was a California car. Indeed, the panel fit is consistent with excellent alignment of doors, bonnet and deck lid gaps. The interior presents superbly and remains commendably original. Overall, an eminently presentable example that has evidently been very well-kept.
Full service and technical inspection/recommissioning recommended
New battery required
Some seal-related leaks may be present due to prolonged inactivity
Owing to the fact that these engines and gearboxes are comparatively straightforward to remove and refit, it's unusual to find matching numbers examples of Porsche 356s. That makes this car that bit more special, on top of the fact it's the ultra-rare Karmann Hardtop Coupé. We're informed that the Porsche runs and drives well, while the vendor recommends a thorough service since the car has been used very little during recent years. The last German safety inspection (DEKRA Vollgutachten) was conducted in 2013, at which time the odometer showed 18,822 km. The current reading is 18,831 km, indicating minimal use since.
The vendor remarks:
"Introduced in 1959, the Porsche 356B marked a notable evolution in terms of drivability and comfort compared to earlier 356 variants. It remains a wonderfully engaging way to experience Porsche’s core values of quality, reliability, and mechanical integrity."Photo 08.07.25, 15 10 11.jpg4.54 MB
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