1964 Porsche 356 SC 1600 Coupe

1,582cc OHV Flat 4-Cylinder Engine
2 Twin-choke Carburetors
95bhp at 5,800rpm
4-Speed Manual Transaxle
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Desirable, fully evolved end-of-the-run 356 SC 1600 Coupe
*Well-preserved, unhurt example retaining much of the original factory-installed interior
*Retains matching-numbers engine and presented in as-delivered livery
*Well-documented with Porsche Certificate of Authenticity and comprehensive history file

THE PORSCHE 356

The 911 model, in its various forms, is certainly Porsche's longest-running model, but it was the 356 which put the marque on the map. Between 1948 and 1965, more than 76,000 were built: Coupes, Speedsters and Cabriolets. While the basic architecture and shape of the 356 changed very little over its lifetime, there were in effect, several generations of cars. The first, characterized by split (or bent) windshields, extended through 1954. From 1955 to 1959, a revised model designated 356A was built, with curved windshield and modified suspension. It was succeeded during 1959 by the 356B, the so-called Type 5 body, with a new nose contour that raised the headlights upwards.

The 356 made its final transformation with the Type 6 body in 1963. Designated 356C, it had a new improved ZF steering gear and added compensating spring at the rear, the latter calming the swing axle suspension. Four-wheel disc brakes were also part of the revision, and a 12-volt electrical system became available. Two 1,600 cc engines were offered, the "C" version with 75 horsepower, and the "SC" with higher compression and counterweighted crankshaft putting out a strong 95 horsepower, plenty to propel the light and well-handling Porsche to very impressive speeds.

Porsche popularity soared, and more than 10,000 cars for 1964 bested the company's total over its first decade. However, the new 911 model was introduced in July, presaging the phase-out of the 356. Regular production finally ended in September 1965, by which time all 356s were being shipped to the United States. A true icon of automotive design and engineering, the Porsche 356 enjoyed much success in racing and rallying, including competition in the 24 hours of Le Mans, the Mille Miglia, the Targa Florio, and the Carrera Panamericana.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This lovely example of the desirable, end-of-the-run 356 SC 1600 Coupe benefits from pampered California ownership by one caring enthusiast for the nearly half a century, well-documented provenance and matching-numbers status, as well as all the upgrades made to the legendary 356 model during the decade and a half long production run.

According to factory records on file, this SC was completed at the Zuffenhausen-based Porsche factory during the Spring of 1964, and delivered new on April 9th, 1964, to the Dutch market, where Pon's would become the selling dealer to first owner, an entity by the name of N.V. Stokfletth of Deventer, Holland. Finished in Light Ivory over red leatherette upholstery from new, the Porsche was factory delivered with the optional chromed signal ring and exterior mirror as listed on the Kardex and Certificate of Authenticity. The SC was exported to California quite early on, where it has remained ever since, most recently cared-for by one single owner for nearly half a century. The beautiful upholstery remains largely original, with the exception of the front seats which has recently been professionally retrimmed in red leather, while a fresh carpet has been fitted in the original color and of the correct German square weave type. The original Blaupunkt AM/FM radio remains installed in the dash, as does the original VDO gauges. An engine rebuild was carried out, which is documented in receipts, and included installment of a new crankshaft and fitment of a new muffler.

The 356 SC retains its highly desirable matching numbers 95-horsepower SC engine along with factory ID plates and stampings. The last digits of the chassis number can be found on various parts of the body panels, indicating the car has kept its original parts. The car is offered complete with a comprehensive history file containing the Porsche-issued Certificate of Authenticity, a copy of the original Kardex build sheet, and a history of ownership including a written summary statement, service receipts, California registration cards and pictures. An owner's manual, tool kit and jack are also included. This stunning Porsche has been looked after since new, and today presents as a lovely well-preserved, unhurt example. Retaining its matching numbers engine and presented in as-delivered livery, this SC would be at home on a classic car rally or tour or at the local Cars and Coffee event.