The ultimate iteration of the lightweight, rear-engined, rear-wheel drive Porsche 356, the 356 C, appeared in 1964, coinciding with Porsche’s purchase of the Reutter coachbuilding firm, which would handle all Coupe and Cabriolet construction in Stuttgart for the remainder of production. New equipment on the 356 C included four-wheel disc brakes, a ZF steering box, and a 12 volt electrical system. It also featured further refinement of its 1600 cc engine, allowing the powerful pushrod engine to produce 88 SAE horsepower in “C” specification. Available in a range of open-top body styles throughout the 15-year production run of the 356, the sporting Cabriolet was always the most costly when new.
According to its Porsche issued Certificate of Authenticity, this 1964 356 C 1600 Cabriolet was ordered in refreshing Light Ivory over Red leather and completed 18 November 1963. Ordered as a 1600, its cost according to period pricelists was just over $4,500 before options. When new it was optioned with leather headrests ($29/ea), two loud speakers ($48.75), a lockable antenna ($13.75), a Carrera-type wood-rimmed steering wheel ($67.50), chrome wheels ($91.50), aluminum side spear trim ($9.50), and Red Coco floor mats ($9.60) it likely crested $5,000 with delivery costs. This example with its matching numbers engine features a full round of servicing in 2020 conducted by Marque Motors of Portland, Oregon at a cost of just over $10,000. Most recently, after the past few years in storage and in preparation for Broad Arrow’s Air|Water auction additional work has been performed by Eckert’s Rod & Custom of Molalla, Oregon. The carburetors were rebuilt, the brake calipers and master cylinder have been replaced, the soft top has been steam cleaned, and an electric fuel pump has been added for ease during cold starts. Additionally, a recent 100 mile road test reveals that the efforts were clearly inspiring with a Broad Arrow Car Specialist noting that it performed with gusto along mountain back roads and the highways around Porland, Oregon.
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