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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 convertible forms were produced from 1948 through 1965. To distinguish among the major revisions of the model, 356's are generally classified into a few major groups. All 356 models 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 late 1959 more significant styling and technical refinements gave rise to the 356B (the T5 body type). Mid-year 1962, the 356B model would be changed to the T6 body type, and spotters will always be able to pick out the car's distinctive twin deck lid grilles, external fuel filler in the right front fender and larger windows offered with this refinement. Additionally, a unique "Karmann Hardtop" or "Notchback" 356B model offered in both 1961 and 1962 was essentially a Cabriolet body with the optional steel accessory hardtop welded in place.
The last revision of the 356 was the 356C which was introduced for the 1964 model year. It featured disc brakes as well as an option for the most powerful pushrod engine Porsche had ever produced, the 95hp "SC". 356 production peaked at 14,151 cars in 1964, the year that its successor, the new 911, was introduced to the US market, having been introduced slightly earlier in Europe. The company continued to sell the 356C in North America through 1965 as demand for the model remained quite strong in the early days of the 911. The last ten examples of the 356 were assembled for the Dutch police force in March 1966 as 1965 models.
The Concours-winning Cabriolet offered here has been in a private collection for the past seven years and always treated to a very high level of care. With a mere 10,000 miles since a full show-level restoration by Porsche club expert Bruce Farrow of Pickering, Ontario in eastern Canada, the car initially competed on the PCA and independent show circuit often taking Best of Show, Best Restoration, and Best Paint awards, then was used carefully on tours and weekend drives to prove its mettle as a well-sorted last-year 356. Conveying with a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity stating that the car was delivered with Ruby Red paint, black leather interior and chrome wheels, the more pleasing Guards Red and the black vinyl interior testify to the dedication of the restorer to provide all future caretaker's of this car with a unique example that will continue to stand the test of time. In addition to the changes specified, the US specification reflectors on the rear of the car were removed. Since they were durable then as now, the car features correct German square weave carpet and Haartz cloth top and boot. Additional details including the original radio remain in the car.
To drive a properly-sorted 356 is to step back in time, and this example is indisputably one of the best running 356s around. With just 1400 miles a year, no maintenance has ever been spared, including oil changes every 6 months and a complete tune up once a year. At the last service, brand-new period-correct Vredestien tires were fitted, ensuring that the car is currently more-than-ready for many years of Porsche excellence in appearance and motion alike.
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The last revision of the 356 was the 356C which was introduced for the 1964 model year. It featured disc brakes as well as an option for the most powerful pushrod engine Porsche had ever produced, the 95hp "SC". 356 production peaked at 14,151 cars in 1964, the year that its successor, the new 911, was introduced to the US market, having been introduced slightly earlier in Europe. The company continued to sell the 356C in North America through 1965 as demand for the model remained quite strong in the early days of the 911. The last ten examples of the 356 were assembled for the Dutch police force in March 1966 as 1965 models.
The Concours-winning Cabriolet offered here has been in a private collection for the past seven years and always treated to a very high level of care. With a mere 10,000 miles since a full show-level restoration by Porsche club expert Bruce Farrow of Pickering, Ontario in eastern Canada, the car initially competed on the PCA and independent show circuit often taking Best of Show, Best Restoration, and Best Paint awards, then was used carefully on tours and weekend drives to prove its mettle as a well-sorted last-year 356. Conveying with a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity stating that the car was delivered with Ruby Red paint, black leather interior and chrome wheels, the more pleasing Guards Red and the black vinyl interior testify to the dedication of the restorer to provide all future caretaker's of this car with a unique example that will continue to stand the test of time. In addition to the changes specified, the US specification reflectors on the rear of the car were removed. Since they were durable then as now, the car features correct German square weave carpet and Haartz cloth top and boot. Additional details including the original radio remain in the car.
To drive a properly-sorted 356 is to step back in time, and this example is indisputably one of the best running 356s around. With just 1400 miles a year, no maintenance has ever been spared, including oil changes every 6 months and a complete tune up once a year. At the last service, brand-new period-correct Vredestien tires were fitted, ensuring that the car is currently more-than-ready for many years of Porsche excellence in appearance and motion alike.
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