Fantasy Junction

Description

1959 Porsche 356A Convertible D
s/n 86233, engine no. 73781
Meissen Blue with Red Leather Interior

The Porsche 356 A Convertible D is a unique development of the legendary Speedster. Produced for the 1959 model year only, the Convertible D retained the cut-down look of the Speedster, but with wind up windows and a more substantial top, it was more comfortable and usable than the Speedster. It was replaced by the 356B Roadster and employed a similar windscreen which was lower than that of the Cabriolet. Consequently, it is an interesting interim car with the aesthetic purity and beauty of the 356A but the enhanced usability of the B Roadster.

This particular car was beautifully restored in its lovely original color combination of Meissen blue with red interior. The car comes with a Certificate of Authenticity that confirms the original color combination and that the engine number matches, although the transmission appears to have been replaced. Its current owner purchased it after its restoration about a year ago and owns several 356s. Following its restoration, it was sorted by 356 guru Jack Staggs and the result is a fantastically-dialed no-excuses car that is ready to enjoy.

Cosmetically, the car is exceptional. The body is extremely straight and displays excellent fit and gaps. The way the doors shut on a 356 is a very telling indication of the caliber of its structure, and this car is superb in that regard. The paintwork was done to high standards and is basically unmarked. The chrome is very nice, with minimal wear and aging in the form of some light swirls and a few blemishes on the front turn signal housing and horn grills only. The lights and glass are excellent, as is the black canvas top.

The interior was restored to the same high standards as the rest of the car. The workmanship is first rate, as are the materials, which aside from the leather upholstery (originally it was leatherette), are correct, including rubber floor mats and square weave carpets. All are in excellent, basically as-new condition. The switches, dash, and gauges are excellent and the chrome is very good, with minor blemishes only. There is also some crazing on the horn button.

The engine compartment was correctly and crisply restored. The correct decals have been applied, along with the correct semigloss finish to the sheet metal and air cleaners, which are the correct Knecht items. The trunk is in very nice condition as well, with correctly restored fuel tank (also in semigloss black), jack, restored spare wheel, and rubber mat.

The car is a pleasure to drive. It starts easily and is very well tuned. It feels exceptionally strong and quick for a 356. The transmission shifts well with excellent synchromesh and a positive clutch. The brakes are effective and the suspension is tight but compliant. Overall, the feel is extremely well-resolved and is a testament to the “touch” of the highly regarded Jack Skaggs.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a beautifully restored and rare Convertible D that has much to recommend it. In addition to the quality of the restoration from a cosmetic standpoint, the car also drives very well. Combined with its stunning original color combination and the fact that it is matching-numbers, this is a high caliber, no-excuses car suitable for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

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