Lot 228: Porsche 356B Cabriolet D

75 hp, 1,582 cc air-cooled flat four-cylinder engine, twin carburetors, parallel trailing arms front suspension with laminated torsion bars, rear swing axles with transverse torsion bars, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 82.7"

- From the Bill Jacobs Collection - More practical replacement for 356 Speedster - Rebuilt engine only 2000 miles ago - One of only 7,055 Porsches built in 1959 - 1600 Super Engine

The American fascination with Porsches really took off after importer Max Hoffman brought 15 special roadsters to the US in 1954. These became known as Speedsters, and their bare bones construction (Hoffman was trying to make the price appealing) actually belied the fact that Porsche had been making cabriolets for some time.

The Speedster took off in the US with 4,044 being sold between 1954 and 1958, when the Reutter-bodied roadster was replaced by the more sophisticated Convertible D. This boasted a taller windshield, windup windows and a respectable top that fit better and provided much improved head room and visibility. Convertible D bodies were built by Drauz of Heilbronn.

The 356B was announced in 1959 and arrived with 15-inch wheels, heavier and taller bumpers and a revised slope to the hood. Headlights were moved up to the top of the fender, with amber parking lights below them and brake vents below the bumper. There were three stages of engine tune, ranging from 70 horsepower to 90 horsepower, as well as the 115-hp Carrera.

The car offered here is a 1600 Super Cabriolet D in black, with Speedster seats, grey carpet and European aftermarket wheels. The 1600-cc motor was rebuilt 2,000 miles ago, and the speedometer indicates only 5,828 miles. Offered from the collection of noted collector Bill Jacobs, the restoration quality is excellent, and the car presents beautifully in black with a matching interior. The engine compartment is clean and detailed, and the car is devoid of any major cosmetic imperfections. It has been driven and enjoyed, but sparingly, and only awaits an enthusiastic new owner.