Paint:
Probably repainted once. The Kardex says Adriablue. The last owner was very sure that it never had a color change. The world leading 356 restoration specialist John Willhoit repainted the car in 1973. He told me it was already black back then. They painted because the paint was faded. If it was color changed it was probably done at the dealer when it was new. Was quite common in those days since nearly nobody ordered a car but just bought it out of stock. If the color was not their taste they changed it.
The Black paint job was done very professional. Absolute no overspray. No signs of any other color then black. The paint is old and has some blemishes like a few cracks and some scratches. Call it patina. The deep gloss is still there and you can really enjoy it as is.
Undercoating:
To show the originality of this car I left the underside untouched. The factory undercoating is peeling of and there it je already bare metal.
Interior:
This Continental has a very nice light grey interior. Once properly redone back in the early seventies. Correct materials and color. It has the correct headliner, sunvisors, period correct radio, gauges, steering wheel. Needs nothing, everything works.
Technical:
The 1500 Matching Numbers engine runs very smooth, has good power and starts right up after pushing the startbutton.
Gearbox:
The early gearboxes are not always a pleasure to shift with. This car shifts suprisingly well for a pre a model. No cracks, grinding and changes smooth in every gear.
Wheels:
All correct 16” wheels are on the car. New tires. Turborims makes them really special.
Brakes:
Because it was parked for quite a long period the brakes needed a rebuilt. All done professional. Brakes perfect now.
Very nice early 356 in a remarkable preserved condition. Ready to be driven again.
This year at least two Continentals are driving the more than famous Mille Miglia. Are you driving it in 2019?
This Continental comes with:
COA / Kardex
Engine service
Original Manual
Old records since the early seventies
Jack, spare and some tools
CA Black plates (Front and Back)
Dutch registration or U.S. title