1962 Porsche 356B T6 Super Coupé

Coachwork by Karmann Chassis no. 211257 Engine no. P.609371 (see text)

Footnotes

One of the all-time great sports cars, the 356 was the work of Ferry Porsche, who had been inspired by the FIAT-based Cisitalias of Piero Dusio. Ferry's 356 was based on the Volkswagen designed by his father, and like the immortal 'Beetle' employed a platform-type chassis with rear-mounted air-cooled engine and all-independent torsion bar suspension. Introduced in 1948, the Porsche 356 set a new standard for small sports cars and proved adaptable to all forms of motor sport including circuit racing and rallying.

By the time the 356B arrived in September 1959, the car had gained a one-piece rounded windscreen and 15"-diameter wheels, and the newcomer's introduction brought with it further styling revisions. The engine, now standardised at 1,600cc, was available in three different stages of tune, the most powerful - apart from the four-cam Carrera - being the 90bhp unit of the Super 90. For the model year 1962 the 356B received its final major upgrade, to T6 specification. First seen at the Frankfurt Show in September 1961, the T6 coupé featured larger front and rear windows; an engine cover with two grilles; a larger bonnet; a fuel filler in the right-hand front wing (LHD cars only); and various minor mechanical upgrades.

The left-hand drive Porsche 356B offered here was delivered new to the USA and left the factory in 'S' specification. It has since been fitted with a regular engine which, according to accompanying paperwork, was rebuilt by the legendary Porsche 356 specialist the late Harry 'The Maestro' Pellow, who had worked on comedian Jerry Seinfeld's 356. A few years ago, a UK-based enthusiast purchased the Porsche and toured around the US West Coast before returning home, bringing the car with him. The current vendor purchased the car in 2020, since when it has been kept garaged and used sparingly. Described as in fine structural and mechanical order, the Porsche is said to drive and perform well. It has recently benefited from an engine refresh by a specialist, plus a brake overhaul; new kingpins and link pins; a headlight correction; an additional a 6-volt battery for easier starting; and the installation of a Leitz-type rear luggage rack. Additional documentation includes sundry bills and a V5C Registration Certificate.

The 356B represents significant advances in driveability and comfort over earlier 356 models, and is a pleasingly quick way to enjoy the traditional Porsche values of quality, reliability and mechanical robustness. Whilst this example is not matching numbers, the price reflects this. A car to be used and enjoyed, they are seldom found in as good a condition as this example.