Lot 322: Porsche 356C Coupé

The work of Ferry Porsche, the 356 was based on the Volkswagen designed by his father and like the immortal �Beetle� employed a platform-type chassis with rear-mounted air-cooled engine and all-independent torsion bar suspension. Regularly revised and updated, Porsche�s landmark sports car would remain in production well into the 911 era, the final examples being built in 1965.
Outwardly very similar to the final 356Bs, the ultimate 356C model arrived in 1963 sporting four-wheel disc brakes - first seen on the 2-litre Carrera 2 - among numerous detail improvements. Engines available - both of 1.6 litres - were the 75bhp �C� and 95bhp �SC�, the latter replacing the Super 90. Testing a 356C in 1964, Road & Track enthused over its comfort, quality and excellent performance, concluding, �one would look a long time before finding a sports or GT car that offers more pure driving enjoyment.�
A left-hand drive model dating from the penultimate year of production, this 356C was originally supplied in D�sseldorf on 28th March 1964 and spent some time in California before coming to Belgium with its American owner in 1999. The car came with him on his relocation to the UK but was in storage for a period before being re-commissioned by marque specialists, PR Services, who comprehensively serviced it and overhauled the front suspension and transmission. Accompanying invoices for this work, which was carried out in 2008, total �8,300.
This very good looking 356 Coup� has excellent paint and chrome plus the tight shut lines for which these cars are renowned. We are advised that the original engine has been upgraded with Dell�Orto carburettors, and the wheels powder-coated and new Pirelli radial tyres fitted, while the front seats have been re-trimmed and the carpets are quite new. Oil pressure is reported as good and the car is said to perform very well on the road, driving with all the charm and individuality that makes these stylish little Porsches so addictive. Representing the 356 in arguably its most useable form, the car is offered with current road fund licence, MoT to July 2009 and Swansea V5.