VIN: 85796
Before the onset of the Second World War in 1939, Ferdinand Porsche designed and built three Type 64 cars for a Berlin to Rome race in 1939 that was never run. Not until after the war and a few years of needed rebuilding was the next Porsche built, a mid-engine tubular chassis 356 prototype called "No. 1". This has led to some debate as to the "first" Porsche automobile, but the 356 is considered by Porsche to be its first production model. Its reputation as a lightweight and nimble handling rear-engine rear-wheel-drive 2-door sports car available in hardtop and Cabriolet configurations with a reliable powertrain led Porsche to a resounding success from start to finish. In addition, design innovations continued during the years of manufacture contributing to its motorsports success and popularity.
The basic design of the 356 remained the same throughout its lifespan, with evolutionary, functional improvements rather than yearly superficial styling changes. Nevertheless a variety of models in both coupe and cabriolet forms were produced from 1948 through 1965. Cabriolets were offered from the start, and in the early 1950's sometimes comprised over 50% of total production. To distinguish among the major revisions of the model, 356's are generally classified into a few major groups. 356 Coupés and "Cabriolets" (soft-top) built through 1954 are readily identifiable by their split (1948 to 1952) or bent (center-creased, 1953 to 1954) windshields. In 1955, with numerous small but significant changes, the 356A was introduced. Its internal factory designation, "Type 1", gave rise to its nickname "T1" among enthusiasts. In early 1957 a second revision of the 356A was produced, known as Type 2 (or T2). In addition to fixed-roof examples, convertibles were offered from the start, and in the early 1950s sometimes comprised over 50 percent of total production.
Perhaps due both to celebrity ownership and its iconic slipstream shape, the best-known convertible model is the 356 Speedster, introduced in late 1954 after Max Hoffman, the sole US importer of Porsches, advised the company that a lower-cost, open-top version could sell well in the American market. With its low, raked windshield (which could be removed for weekend racing), bucket seats and minimal folding top, the Speedster was an instant hit, especially in Southern California. Production of the Speedster peaked at 1,171 cars in 1957 and then began to decline. Replaced in late 1958 by the "Cabriolet D" model, this car represented a refinement of the original, with a taller, more practical windshield, glass side windows and more comfortable seats. Less than 1300 Cabriolet D models were produced, however, and 1958 brought about the replacement of the D by the 356B "Roadster" convertible.
The example of a 356 Cabriolet D offered here is one of just a handful of survivors known to exist. Finished in ivory with a period green interior and a brand-new soft top, it represents an early segment of the lineage of low-slung Porsche sports cars that captured a small segment of the American marketplace for the small and exclusive automaker. While not numbers-matching, this D carries a period-correct drivetrain that is fully-sorted and ready for whatever mood strikes its new owner. Whether purchased to drive, admire or show, there's nothing quite like an unusual 356 with a top that goes down.
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