Lot 494: 1961 Porsche 356B 1600 Sunroof Coupé

The 356B represents significant advances in driveability and comfort over earlier 356 models, and in Super form, it is a pleasingly quick way to enjoy the traditional Porsche values of quality, reliability and mechanical robustness.

This particular example is a genuine Super with matching numbers and is fitted with desirable options including leather interior, period Golde sunroof, Super 90 camber compensators, and side trim reminiscent of that more frequently encountered on Speedsters. The vendor advises us that it has been well kept over the years, rather than having ever been restored, and is a car to be driven.

Cosmetically, the car is very nice and consistent with a fine driver. The paint appears to be recent and is a fairly high quality job in a nice period shade of light beige, while panel gaps and fit are very good across the board. The chrome is quite possibly original and is very good everywhere except for the window trims, which are showing their age. The rubber trim in that area is also starting to show signs of aging. Window glass and lights are very good all around.

The interior is in extremely nice condition. The door panels and the front and rear seats have been re-trimmed in beautiful red leather and are outstanding, while the headliner too is excellent, having been replaced recently. A period correct Nardi steering wheel is fitted as is the original Blaupunkt AM-FM radio (labelled ‘Blue Spot’ for the American market). A Sony cassette player is installed in the glovebox and a pair of aftermarket speakers fitted. The carpets and mats are excellent, as are the gauges and bezels, which almost certainly have been restored, while the interior chrome is unrestored and shows age in some places but remains generally presentable.

The trunk looks fresh and the correct spare tire is fitted. The engine compartment has a nice original feel to it but is very clean. Other than a pair of K&N air filters on the correct Solexes, it is stock. The underside is solid and aside from some repair to the longitudinal members and battery box, appears to be original. It is predominantly rust-free, above and below. Mechanically, the car is sound and ready to be enjoyed.

This is a fine opportunity to acquire a matching-numbers example of one of these robust cars. It has desirable options and is a solid car that could be used extensively, providing a reliable and enjoyable ownership experience.