In 2016 the ‘356’ crossed over to the Netherlands as a restoration project.
Yet the basis turned out to be a dream, and he had no need for welding. The following work was started during his restoration: the paintwork was completely renewed to the original specifications using new rubbers. The original chrome work was redoed, as the original part numbers on the indicator lights show…
Also the suspension, brakes, engine and gearbox were completely checked and all wear parts were replaced.
The result is a very beautiful and stylish classic that is in perfect mechanical condition. The engine is strong and pulls nicely through all gears, without any noises. Thanks to the original disc brakes, the car is also easy to bring to a stop.
The bodywork fittings are -because of the good base- beautiful and the interior has been renewed.
Finally, the car still has its original rims!
This iconic classic comes with its ‘birth certificate’, a copy of the American title, numerous invoices and a Dutch registration.
The ‘356’ was the first production car of the German sports car brand Porsche and was designed by Ferry, the son of Ferdinand Porsche. Since Ferdinand was involved in the development of the VW Beetle in the 1930’s, Volkswagen parts were mostly used for the production of the 356.
The first Porsches were assembled in the Austrian town of Gmünd and made of aluminium. The cars had a windshield that consisted of two flat parts, but from ’52 these were replaced by a single curved one. Production was to move to German Stuttgart – Zuffenhausen from 1950 onwards.
Four-cylinder boxers with a capacity of 1,086; 1,268; 1,290 or 1,488 cc were chosen for the heart and the power ranged from 40 to 60 hp.
After the 356, the 356A came on the market in 1955. This ‘A’ was available in Coupe, Cabriolet and Speedster. The engine was drilled to 1,582 cc and produced 60 to 75 hp.
In 1959 the ‘A’ was succeeded by the 356B. Bumpers and headlights were placed higher and the interior and rear suspension were also updated.
The last and most developed 356s came on the market in 1963 and got the name 356C. Disk brakes all around were now the standard and the power from the 1.6L boxer is now between 75 and 95 hp.
Production continued until 1966, after that the 356 was succeeded by the iconic 911.