Based largely on the ultra-rare Gläser-built 356 America of 1953, and even retaining its Type 540 internal designation, the Porsche Speedster debuted in 1954. The model owes much of its existence to renowned New York-based importer Max Hoffman, who understood the needs of the burgeoning American market and convinced his European partners to build specific models to meet them. Equipped with simple bucket seats, limited instrumentation, and a cut-down windscreen, the lightweight Speedster delivered heightened performance, handling, and braking, often humbling many more-powerful competitors. Priced from $2,995 at its 1954 New York debut, the Speedster’s racing success and avant-garde flair made it an instant hit – and it remains an enduring classic today.
While its early history is not currently known, according to a previous auction description on file, in 1971 this Speedster was acquired by the prior owner, who commissioned cosmetic and mechanical restoration work carried out between 1998 and 2003. This included changing the exterior color to silver and restoring the Speedster’s sporting cockpit in red upholstery. The Porsche is also currently fitted with a Type 616/2 Super engine, a desirable upgrade over the standard model’s 60 hp unit. In April 2005, Tom Larsen purchased the Speedster at an auction held at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline, Massachusetts, after a yearlong search for the right car.
Following his acquisition, Mr. Larsen had further work completed on the Speedster, and in November 2006 it was invited to participate in a special exhibition at the Peabody Essex Museum in Massachusetts, becoming one of the very first automobiles ever to be displayed there. It was also featured as one of the subjects of an article in Boston magazine covering high-profile New England car collections and their owners. In addition, the Speedster was displayed from May 2016 to May 2017 at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum as part of its Marque of Excellence exhibition, followed by participation in the 2018 Porsche Club of America Northeast Region Concours d’Elegance, among other concours, charitable shows, and events.
Accompanying this Speedster is a wealth of documents, including detailed restoration invoices, maintenance and parts receipts, plus the aforementioned magazine article, show and concours entries, and the corresponding Porsche Certificate of Authenticity. As one of the most purposeful and sought-after classic European sports cars in existence, Porsche’s 356 A Speedster was one of Mr. Larsen’s absolute favorites among the legendary cars in his carefully curated collection, and the offering of this handsome Porsche marks a fabulous opportunity to share in the mystique.
