Vehicle to be offered for Auction sale January 15th – 19th, 2014 at Russo and Steele's 14th Annual Scottsdale Arizona Auction. Please contact us for more information.

The evolution of the Porsche 356 was swift, inspired not only by Porsche’s drive for technical improvement, but also for commercial success. Sales outstripped even Porsche’s most optimistic forecasts and with growing sales, came opportunities to build increasing numbers of the 356’s in-house as well as to expand the model range. After a decade of international appeal and successful sales, the 356B, successor to the pioneer generation of production Porsches was introduced in Frankfurt in late 1959.

The 356B (T6 body) for the 1962 model year was introduced in September of 1961 with significant changes. It displayed twin air-intake grilles in the rear lid, an outside spring-loaded gas filler cap in the right front fender, a new cowl vent, and a flattened lower edge of the front lid. The battery was repositioned and an optional gasoline heater nestled in its place. Among other changes, a new fresh air system was incorporated for occupants and the Porsche transmissions were available in numerous gear rations. By 1963, the “Super” variant benefited from an additional 20 horsepower over its standard 1,600 cc engine and was available in both coupe and cabriolet form. Power was sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox while four-wheel hydraulic drums provided stopping power.

This stunning, three-owner 1600 Super 356B Cabriolet was completed on August 8, 1962. During the late 1970s, it was sold to the original owner’s sister, under whom a no-expense-spared restoration was performed in 1979. In 1988, she sold the car to its third owner, who cared for it faithfully until recently deciding to sell it. In the last year, it received a full cosmetic restoration, including a complete strip and repaint, as well as a complete mechanical service. Finished in its correct and original “701” Raven Black, the 356B remains faithful to its original factory specifications, boasting the numbers correct original engine, drivetrain, and body panels. Offered complete with period correct optional Leitz chrome-plated luggage rack, this outstanding Porsche is further accompanied by the Certificate of Authenticity issued by Porsche Cars North America. The Porsche 356 has been climbing dramatically in price over the past few years, and it would be difficult to find another example with the provenance and attention to detail that this excellent 356B possesses.