THE PORSCHE 356


Porsche's Type 356, introduced on June 8, 1948 as the 356/1, is known to be one of the world's great sports cars. Over a 15-year production run, the handsome and durable 356 evolved from a VW-derived, 46bhp 1,100cc aluminum coupe to a complex, 2-liter 4-cam, 130bhp Autobahn burner. Steady development saw the addition of a luxurious cabriolet, the spartan Speedster, and a host of options to fine tune a 356 to meet the individual buyer’s needs. In all, Porsche built 76,313 examples by the time production ceased in 1965.

The original 356, or Pre-A as it is known, is easy to recognize by its two-piece windscreen divided by a center bar which was later in 1952 replaced by a single center-bent windscreen. In the period from 1948 until 1955 only 7627 examples were built of which only 1983 were cabriolets.
 

THE CAR OFFERED
Delivered on February 19, 1954 the 356 1500 Pre-A technically is still a 1953 model based on the chassis number 60439 (the changeover is the chassis number 60550). The iconic bent-window windscreen and the separate bumpers as well as the beehive lights clearly show its pedigree.

The original car was delivered in Glasso yellow, RAL number 1002, with Rosanil leather interior (light brown). The soft top was delivered in black.

The current engine is a 1955 1500 engine, but a restored 546 engine block is sold with the car. The engine number (333XX) fits well into the delivery range of 32570-33899, which would allow for a restoration with a period correct engine.

I addition, several accessory items required for the restoration are sold with the car.

After a full restoration 1954 Pre-A Cabriolets would easily be valued in excess of 300.000EUR.