Fantasy Junction

Description

1958 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600
s/n 84748
Ruby Red with Black Interior

The Porsche Speedster is a true legend among automobiles. Built with the less is more mentality, it was actually a case of removing equipment to reduce the cost of the car and compete with less expensive cars. Ironically, the cars are more collectible now and worth considerably more than their plusher counterparts. The car was built in direct response to requests for American Porsche distributor Max Hoffman for a car that would sell better in the United States and would be inexpensive enough to compete with Triumphs and MG`s. The resulting car had only what was necessary: side curtains, a cut down windscreen, bucket seats, and a rudimentary top. The cars sold well, especially in the United States, and were popular among racers and enthusiasts. Certainly they occupy a unique place among American sports car culture.

Later examples, such as this one, were fitted with the enlarged 1600cc engine, in addition to a number of detail updates. This particular car has known history back to the 1970’s and was owned by the same family for about two decades until 2009, when its current owner acquired it. Under the care of the previous owners, the car was driven extremely rarely, and a mechanic came to the owner’s house twice a year to change the fluids and exercise the car. It has an older restoration that is holding up well, and a number of special features including Sebring Mach I mirror, headlamp stone guards, chromed wheels with color crests, European rear lenses, and quad outlet sport exhaust. The engine case of the original type and is unstamped, indicating that this is a Porsche-supplied replacement sourced in period. The only source for these unstamped blocks are Porsche dealers, and conversations with a highly regarded PCA concours judge and 356 expert indicates that these unstamped blocks do not incur deductions in competition.

The car is in very nice cosmetic condition. The paintwork was completed to high standards and has very few blemishes. The body is straight and the gaps very good. The trim and chrome are in very nice shape, though the finish on the tail light surrounds is a bit thin. The glass and lights are in fine shape. The top is in very good shape, including the frame, which has been refinished. The side curtains and tonneau cover are also included.

The interior has a nice even patina. The seats are in very good shape, and the carpets are older but still presentable. The dashboard is in good shape, and the instruments are very nice. An oil pressure gauge and ammeter are installed as well, in addition to a non-dished steering wheel with drilled spokes.

The engine compartment and trunk are both tidy and representative of an older restoration. The trunk has the correct leather spare tire strap, and is solid throughout. The jack is still in place. The engine compartment is very clean, and could be made spotless with a very reasonable amount of effort. The correct Knecht air cleaners and decals are in place. The car had its floors replaced many years ago and there is no corrosion in evidence at this time.

This car is a superb driving example. The engine is strong and well-tuned and the gearbox operates very well. The chassis is solid, and the brakes and steering operate properly. The car is a great deal of fun and has a confidence-inspiring solidity that encourages the driver to use it enthusiastically in a way that defies the car’s 1958 build date.

This is a great opportunity to acquire a wonderfully usable example of this iconic blue chip car. The car is attractive and makes a great impression, but is not so nice as to discourage regular use. In fact, given that the car drives so well, it would be a pity not to enjoy this car often.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608