Lot 303: Porsche 356C Convertible

The last version of the iconic Porsche 356 was the 356C, introduced in July 1963. It featured Dunlop disc brakes on all four wheels, and was offered with three engines, 1600C (formerly 1600 Super), 1600SC (formerly Super 90) and the 2-liter four-cam Carrera 2. Only coupes and cabriolets were offered, the sole external change being a set of flat-faced hub caps. Production of the 356C continued into 1965, and then only for shipment to the United States, where the model had been the most popular. The new 911 had debuted the year before, taking Porsche into new territory with a six-cylinder engine and a modern body designed by Ferdinand Butzi Porsche, son of Ferry Porsche and grandson of the founder. A final run of ten 356C cabriolets was delivered to the Dutch police force in 1966. Like most Porsche 356s, this car was bodied by Reutter. Karosseriefabrik Reutter & Co. of Stuttgart had a long association with Porsche. Founded as a coachbuilding firm in 1906, Reutter pioneered lightweight construction, using Weymann fabric patents and early use of aluminum. Reutter furnished prototypes to Ferdinand Porsche in 1932, during the early days of the Volkswagen project, then rekindled the relationship in 1950, when the nascent Porsche company returned from Austria to Stuttgart. Porsche's old facilities were occupied by the US Army, so Reutter leased some plants to Porsche for car production and started producing bodies for a number of 356 models. These included coupes, cabriolets and speedsters. While Karmann also built coupes in the 1960s, most of the open cars were by Reutter. Porsche took over Reutter in 1963, although a portion of the original company remains independent, operating under the name Recaro. This 1965 356C cabriolet is a well-cared-for car. The black paint has some water spotting and a few cracks, but the car is very presentable. The striking red leather may be original, and red carpet kick panels and gray floor carpet present a nice contrast. The instrument panel is nicely detailed and is equipped with a tri-band radio. Indicated mileage is just under 49,000. The car runs and drives well, exhibiting those traits only found in a Porsche. A new owner is bound to be pleased.