Lot 236: 1964 Porsche 356 Cabriolet

Porsche's first production car, the 356 brought the marque enduring fame around the world and its reliability, performance and wonderfully entertaining handling have guaranteed it a keen following. Inspired by the Fiat-based Cisitalias of Piero Dusio, Dr Ferdinand Porsche had decided to follow the same path with a car using Volkswagen components. The first 356 was sold in July 1948 and production continued right through to 1965 in various guises and with numerous engines. As the company's first production model, the Porsche 356 set a new standard for small sports cars and gained its laurels in all manner of motor sport disciplines including racing and rallying. In October 1955 the 356A model was introduced with numerous improvements and three body styles were now offered, the coupe, the Speedster and the cabriolet, all built by Reutter in Stuttgart. Five engine options were also available, the 1.3 litre 1300 and 1300S, the 1.6 litre 1600 and 1600S and the 1.5 litre 1500 GS. Purchased by the vendor 20 years ago in America from what is believed to have been only the car's third owner, this splendid Cabriolet example was the subject of a comprehensive and thorough restoration between 1999 and 2005, a photographic and fully documented record of which accompanies the car. The car has been effectively totally rebuilt from the ground up with enormous attention being paid to retention of all the original features on the car. A statement prepared by the vendor is available for inspection which in great detail outlines the very comprehensive nature of the works completed.Regularly used, this left-hand drive 356C has covered some 4,000 miles since during which it is said to have performed both reliably and well. Finished in Ivory with red leather interior, this striking Porsche is offered in excellent condition and comes complete with a certificate from Porsche detailing its original build and specification. A stunning car ideal for classic, top-down summer motoring.Presque tous les composants de cette voiture furent restaures ou remplaces entre 1999 et 2005 pendant cette voiture dans la conditions dans laquelle se trouve aujourd'hui. De couleur ivoire et sellerie rouge, elle représente une belle exemple de la marque.