Porsche Roadster 356B 1961

1961 Porsche 356B 1600 Roadster

The work of Ferry Porsche, the 356 was based on the Volkswagen designed by his father, and like the immortal 'Beetle' employed a platform-type chassis with rear-mounted air-cooled engine and all-independent torsion bar suspension. Regularly revised and updated, Porsche's landmark sports car would remain in production well into the 911 era, the final examples being built in 1965.

Cabriolets had been manufactured right from the start of 356 production, but the first open Porsche to make a significant impact was the Speedster, introduced in 1954 following the successful reception in the USA of a batch of 15 special roadsters. The Speedster was dropped in 1958 and replaced by the more civilised Convertible D, which differed principally by virtue of its larger windscreen and winding side windows. Porsche sub-contracted cabriolet body construction to a number of different coachbuilders, Convertible D production being undertaken by Drauz, of Heilbronn. By the time the 356B arrived in September 1959, the car had gained a one-piece rounded windscreen and 15"-diameter wheels, and the newcomer's introduction brought with it further styling revisions and an engine now standardised at 1,600cc. Convertible D production later transferred to d'Ieteren, of Brussels.

This very rare and highly sought after Porsche 356 Roadster has covered only 7,500 kilometres since total restoration, carried out by a specialist in Italy last summer, which included new Porsche silver metallic paintwork. Running well without a trace of smoke, the car boasts a perfect Cognac interior with black soft-top and beige tonneau cover and hood bag. A complete file of invoices will accompany the car, which is offered with Netherlands registration papers.

Estimate is a whopping 90,000 to 100,000 Euro

Automobilia and Motor Cars
Saturday 26th September 2009, 2pm
at the W.E.E.A.
Sale site:
Circuit de Gueux en Champagne
Reims
France