Chesil has been rightly renowned for producing some of the finest Porsche 356 Speedster-inspired cars. This beautiful example uses the company’s well-respected body kit, and utilises the restored chassis, engine and gearbox of a 1972 Volkswagen Beetle, replicating the mechanical layout of the original 356 Speedster.
The car is finished in stunning Porsche A1 Gloss Black, using a modern basecoat and gloss lacquer, and is complemented by chrome trim, headlamp stone guards, Hella driving lamps and 15inch gloss black wheels with chrome baby moon hubcaps. The grey hood and matching hood cover are both new, as are all exterior seals and trim. The underside is equally clean, reflecting the fact that this is a newly completed vehicle rather than a restored older example.

The interior is finished in attractive Bolero Tan leather and is described by the owner as “being in new condition throughout”. The period-style bucket seats, instruments, switchgear and wind up side windows are complemented by a retro-style Bluetooth stereo with USB input, as well as an immobiliser. The owner reports that all instruments, switchgear and controls operate correctly. A detailed owners handbook is also included that explains the operation of the vehicle, including heating, lighting and routine maintenance, making ownership straightforward even for those unfamiliar with classic air-cooled Volkswagens.

The owner describes the vehicles mechanical condition as “effectively new”. The 1641cc air-cooled Type 1 engine has been extensively rebuilt with new bearings, pistons, cylinders, cylinder heads and valves, and is fitted with twin Weber 34 ICT carburettors, an alternator conversion and a twin GT-style exhaust. The original 4- speed manual gearbox has been professionally refurbished. The braking system features front disc brakes and rear drums. The suspension has been comprehensively overhauled with new shock absorbers, bushes, ball joints and adjustable rear spring plates. The vehicle has recently completed its running-in period and has received a final inspection and carburettor tune by an air-cooled Volkswagen specialist. The owner reports that it starts easily, idles smoothly and drives exactly as intended.

In February 2026 the car underwent a successful IVA inspection in February 2026 and in April 2026 was registered as a Chesil Speedster. The car carries age-related 1972 registration plates (K suffix), with Historic Vehicle tax class currently being processed. The vehicle has covered just 160 miles since completion, solely for testing, setup and calibration. The sale includes build photographs, major parts receipts, the Chesil build manual, spare keys and a comprehensive owners handbook. With Chesil currently in administration, newly completed examples have become increasingly rare.

The owner describes the creation of this car as a passion project to recreate the appearance and driving character of an original 1957 Porsche 356A Speedster with freshly rebuilt, reliable mechanical components. Rather than restoring an old car, the aim was to create a Speedster that feels fresh, honest and engaging to drive from day one. The owner states that what they enjoy most is how mechanical and involving it feels – making every journey an occasion, whether a short drive through the countryside or simply parking it somewhere and chatting with the people it inevitably attracts. It has all the charm of a classic Speedster with the reassurance of being a newly completed, carefully assembled example.

 

BEFORE YOU BUY 

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✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. 

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