Lot 240: 1964 Porsche 356C 1600SC Coupe

Having been through basic, A and B models from 1948, Porsche’s evergreen 356 made its final transformation with the Type 6 body in 1963. Designated 356C, it had a new 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 1,600cc engines were offered, the ‘C’ version with 75 DIN (European horsepower, rated 88 hp by SAE), and the ‘SC’ with higher compression and counterweighted crankshaft making 95 hp DIN (107 SAE). Most powerful was the four-cam Carrera 2, which displaced 1,966cc and was rated at 130 hp DIN (145 SAE). 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. More than 78,000 had been built, of which half are estimated to survive. 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.


This 356C Karmann-bodied coupe was restored in 1991 and has traveled just 7,500 miles since. It was bare-metal repainted Dolphin Grey with new interior in the original green leatherette style and German square weave carpet with rubber floor mats. All gauges were rebuilt by VDO. The car has the optional oil pressure gauge as well as the stock oil temperature gauge and clock. It is fitted with a Nardi wood steering wheel and Hella 128 fog lamps. A genuine SC car, it now runs engine # 810237, which is a correct SC series of the same late 1963 production. It has been rebuilt and is in excellent running order. It presently has Dell'orto carburetors for superior performance; the original Solex carbs and air cleaners accompany the car, which also comes with photos of the restoration. A fine restoration of a late 356C Porsche, it is sure to please its new owner.