Introduced in 1948, the Porsche 356 was the brand’s first production car, combining lightweight agility with a sleek, jet-age design of rounded, aerodynamic forms. For 1960, Porsche introduced the 356 B with the new T-5 body style, featuring improvements in handling, ride comfort, and refinement, along with more powerful engine options. A new Roadster model replaced the Convertible D, a refined successor to the Speedster. For the 1962 model year, Porsche refined the 356 with the T-6 body style. To clear production lines for the upcoming 356 C, the remaining T-6 Roadsters were completed by D’Ieteren Frères in Belgium. Distinguished by several unique design elements including twin grilles on the deck lid, a more squared-off hood, and a gas cap positioned on the right-side fender, only 248 examples of this final 356 Roadster were built.
Finished by the factory in Champagne Yellow (6205) with a Green leather interior, this Roadster was completed on December 6, 1961, and delivered to Brumos Porsche in Jacksonville, Florida. It was optioned with reclining seats, an ashtray, and a cigarette lighter. Originally sold by Brumos to The Dumond Paper Company of Fort Myers, Florida, in May 1962, this car’s early history is largely unknown until 1999, when it was acquired by Raymond J. Minella of New Canaan, Connecticut, a prominent investment banker and Porsche collector. In 2005, Mr. Minella commissioned a restoration by Jim Newton’s award-winning Automobile Associates of Canton Inc. in Connecticut. Completed in 2006, the Roadster earned a prestigious Gmünd award at the August 2006 PCA Porsche Parade in Portland, Oregon. It went on to win Best in Class at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in March 2007 and the Greenwich Concours d’Elegance in May 2007.
In 2012, this Roadster was sold to Connecticut resident Thomas Cafro. Believed to have been used sparingly by Mr. Cafro, the Roadster returned to Automobile Associates in April 2020 for service and new tires. The Roadster was sold in 2023 to the current enthusiast owner through renowned Porsche restorer John Willhoit of Long Beach, California. In 2024, the Porsche was showcased at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering and Motorlux.
Appropriate for such a fantastic example, the Roadster is fitted with 1961 date-coded wheels and an impressive set of manuals, including not only the owner’s manual but the Roadster supplement, Porsche Owners Club guide, and dealer directory.
One of just 248 “Twin Grille” Roadsters ever built, this spectacular example is accompanied by books, tool kit, Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, copy of its Kardex, and documentation. Restored to extremely high standards and concours-shown, this exceptional Roadster is a rare find indeed.
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