LOT 147
1960 Porsche 356B Roadster Coachwork by Drauz Karosserie Chassis no. 87607
Estimate: US$230,000 - US$260,000
Lot 147
An outstanding 'Outlaw-style' hot-rod based on the stylish 356B Roadster
1960 Porsche 356B Roadster
1960 Porsche 356B Roadster
1960 Porsche 356B Roadster
Coachwork by Drauz Karosserie
Chassis no. 87607
Coachwork by Drauz Karosserie
Chassis no. 87607
1,582cc OHV Flat 4-Cylinder Engine (See Text)
Twin Solex Carburetors
90bhp at 6,100rpm
4-Speed Manual Transaxle
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
Front Disc, Rear Hydraulic Drum Brakes (See Text)
*A rare Roadster, fully restored and updated in the Outlaw style
*Specialist-built 912 engine and 741C gearbox
*Gorgeous period-correct Condor Yellow paint
*Fitted with front disc brakes, Technomagnesio wheels
*Superb quality, with just 122 miles since its 3-year restoration
THE PORSCHE 356 ROADSTER
America's influential Porsche importer Max Hoffman approached Porsche about building a spartan, lightweight 356 variant aimed specifically at US buyers. His vision for a lower cost, lighter Porsche to boost the marque's reputation in the burgeoning SCCA club racing scene was spot on. Porsche responded with the 1954 Speedster which more than met Hoffman's expectations. The Speedster put the 356 within reach of more American drivers so they could drive to the track, enjoy a day of competition, and drive home. A proven success both on the track and Porsche dealers' showrooms, the bare bones Speedster was an instant cult classic.
As buyers' taste changed, the Speedster spawned the more comfortable 356A Convertible D. Introduction of the T-5 generation 356B in 1960 brought the final iteration of the Speedster form, now known as the Roadster. The Roadster offered greater comfort and, like the Convertible D, rollup windows and a more secure top. Keeping with the Speedster ethos, a separate windshield could be removed to reduce aero drag on track, compared to the Cabriolet's fixed windshield frame, more equipment, and greater weight. Most Roadsters featured bodies by Drauz, with a handful made by d'Ieteren Freres at the end of production.
THE CAR OFFERED
Representing the 'sweet spot' of the 356 range, the pretty Roadster balances the lightweight driver-focused attitude of the Speedster with the versatility of the Cabriolet. This gorgeous Condor Yellow 1960 example takes it several steps further, thanks to a superb, high spec "Outlaw" style build. The 3-year rotisserie restoration is by concours specialist Martin's Classic Cars, and is finished to concours quality standards, with a host of choice upgrades to improve performance, handling and style. Highlights of the build include a robust 912 engine and 741C gearbox, which the consignor reports was built by Vic Skirmants's renowned 356 Enterprises, and updated with more reliable 12-volt electrics. The suspension is fine-tuned via Willhoit Restoration torsion bars and sway bar, along with new Sachs dampers all around. A front disc brake conversion ensures the stopping power matches the performance and handling upgrades.
The body is beautifully restored and finished to a high standard in the factory shade of Condor Yellow over a black leather interior. Square weave carpets, rubber floor mats, and a factory 3-spoke wheel keep everything looking tidy and authentic, with only subtle hints at what lurks beneath the skin. The slightly lowered stance gives it a particularly tasty aesthetic, especially on the fantastic Technomagnesio wheels shod with period-style rubber.
At first glance, the modifications appear subtle, but the quality and attention to detail become ever more apparent the closer you look. The consignor reports just 122 miles have passed under the wheels since completion of the 3-year restoration, and it is virtually 'box fresh' and prime for enjoyment on any number rallies and tours. This Roadster represents so much of what we love about the 'outlaw' 356 style – preserving the purity of the original shape, while carefully honing Porsche's iconic sports car into a proper back-road weapon.
Additional information
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