Lot 38: 1964 PORSCHE 356SC CABRIOLET WITH HARD TOP

White with black interior Engine: Horizontally opposed air-cooled four cylinder at rear, 1,582cc, 95bhp at 5500rpm, two Solex carburetors; Gearbox: four-speed manual with Porsche synchromesh; Suspension: front, independent with torsion bars and trailing arms, rear, swing axel; Brakes: hydraulic disc all round. Left hand drive. As a production car available in Cabriolet, Coupe, Speedster and Roadster form, the 356 quickly became a world phenomenon. As part of an ongoing program of improvements, engine size went up to 1600cc and power to a comfortable 95bhp in the more potent variants such as this model. But above all, it was the quality built into the type - the concentration on a single air-cooled theme, the rewarding handling that gave the car its place in the sun. In 1960 the B came along, provided with more robust bumpers, higher headlamps and a host of hidden refinements. The aerodynamics were improved, as were the brakes. The top speed was now quoted at 109mph. By 1963 the final version of the 356 became available, the C was available in either standard 75bhp specification or 95bhp SC specification, and all models were now fitted with ATE disc brakes all round. This 356 SC is a unique offer in barn-find condition. It presents an opportunity that is growing rare for an enthusiast to endeavor a complete restoration with such an original car. Completed in 1963 but sold and titled as a 1964 model, this 356 boasts coachwork by Reutter. Purchased in the early 1970's by Mr. Fred Ward, the father of the current owner, who lived in New York City, he decided to store it with his in-laws in Kingston, NY, a few hours north. Here the Porsche was enthusiastically used primarily on weekends and vacations for journeys into the countryside including trips to New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine. Mrs. Ward recently recounted that she could not "think of anything more exhilarating than driving along winding roads with the top down, smelling either the piney woods, the sea air, or the damp pavement just as it began to rain." Another story recounts a trip Mr. Ward took with one of his friends when they decided to "make time" on their return home and crested a hill at speed. The police were waiting. Mr. Ward could not believe that he was going 80mph so he asked the police officer to follow him so he could calibrate his speedometer. After a few miles, Mr. Ward humbly accepted the ticket. Not long after, the Ward family began to grow and the Porsche was laid up in Kingston where it has since been quietly hibernating. Today, the car is in complete condition, inclusive of the hard-top and factory supplied engine and is ready for its next adventure. Christie's is pleased to present this car on behalf of Mr. Ward's daughter and is sure the new owner, after a restoration, will have many fond memories of the quintessential Porsche 356.