Fantasy Junction

Description

1960 Porsche 356 B Roadster
s/n 88790, engine no. P*88050*
Aetna Blue with Red Interior

Among Porsche enthusiasts, there is an ongoing debate about which model is the ultimate open 356. The Speedster has long been regarded as the most collectible, and does enjoy a purity of line that is very attractive, however the later Convertible D and B Roadster enjoy functional and mechanical updates that make the cars more pleasurable to use in the real world. Thus, enthusiasts wishing to enjoy their cars will be attracted to the 356B Roadster, whose low and rakish lines, more functional top and wind up windows represent the perfect compromise between the unmistakably sporty lines first embodied by the Speedster and the civilized refinement of the Cabriolet. Coupled with the mechanical updates on all 356B's (including more substantial oil pump, more effective bumpers, improved ZF gearboxes and shift linkages, improved brakes, and stronger connecting rods).

This particular car is believed to have been sold new in Europe, but has been in California for approximately thirty years. Produced in December of 1960 and finished in its lovey original color combination of Aetna blue with red interior, the car has stunning presence and is also a superb driving example. It remained with one California owner for approximately 25 years, before being acquired by well-known 356 restoration expert Ted Blake. The car was at that time in need of restoration and he set about restoring the car to his famously high standards. At the time of restoration, the body had minor rust in typical locations but no accident evidence and the floor pans and longitudinals were done using Stoddard-supplied parts.

During the rebuild, the generator stand (which bears the engine number) was transferred to a 356C case which has a superior oiling system. The original matching case is included with the car. The C case was built up to 1720cc and fitted with SC (counter balanced) crankshaft, SC rods, Super 90 heads, 40mm intake valves, and 9.25:1 compression ration J&E pistons. The original Zenith carbs were employed (rebuilt of course), various sheetmetal powder coated, and the generator and fuel pump rebuilt. A new pressure plate, clutch, and throwout bearing were also fitted. The transmission is a two mount type made in December of 1960, indicating the only difference of significance between the 1960 and 1961 model year 356. The transmission was rebuilt with new bearings, new synchromesh, and a quarter inch side stiffener to prevent the axle boot from leaking. The front suspension was rebuilt in its entirety including new steering damper and Boge shocks. The steering box was also rebuilt, along with new wheel cylinders, brake lines, and dual master cylinder (which is hidden from above so it looks stock). A new German wiring harness was fitted, LED lights fitted into the original tail light housings, and Palo Alto Speedometer rebuilt all the gauges. The windscreen was replaced, and a full new interior and top from Autos International was fitted. The car has covered approximately 200 miles since the restoration.

The attention to detail and quality of the restoration is obvious and the car makes an excellent cosmetic impression. The body is straight with excellent fit and gaps other than the right door, which is very good instead of excellent (it sits ever so slightly proud). The driver’s door fits and operates superbly, and the paintwork was applied to high standards with almost no issues. The paint trailing edge of the passenger’s door was polished through, and there are a few swirls about the car, but it is excellent overall. The chrome is also excellent, as are the lights, lenses, and glass. The wheels are fresh in appearance and the car wears new Michelin XZX tires all round. The wheels are date code matching and the car wears a 1986-only “sunset” license plate, indicating that the car has been in California for at least 29 years.

The interior is in beautiful condition and was correctly restored to high standards. The upholstery workmanship is excellent, including the seats, door panels, and dashboard. The carpets are the correct square weave material and the floors are correct rubber. The instruments and dash were also restored, and the car is equipped with desirable wood-rimmed steering wheel which is in beautiful shape. The trunk lock and shifter lock keys are both present with the car even.

The car is an absolute pleasure to drive, accurately capturing the personality and appeal of the 356, but offering appreciably better performance that the seasoned 356 enthusiast will immediately identify and appreciate. The engine is well tuned and powerful, with an unmistakable 356 experience, just with more power. The gearbox is a pleasure to use, with an uncommonly precise and solid linkage. There is far less play than is typical in these cars. The suspension and chassis are well resolved and provide Porsche’s trademark communicative handling and steering, while the brakes are effective and even in their operation. In short, the seasoned 356 enthusiast will immediately appreciate the subtle but decisive improvements, but none of the magic of the vintage Porsche experience is lost, making this an exceptionally great-driving example.

The engine compartment was also correctly restored to high standards and aside from some light soiling, is essentially spotless. The correct decals and air filters are in place. The trunk was also restored to high standards, with new rubber mat, correct semi gloss finish on the fuel tank, and restored October 1960 date coded spare with matching new Michelin XZX tire. A new leather strap to retain the spare was also fitted. The fuel tank is dated November 1960.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a lovely 356 Roadster restored by one of the best in the business. Finished in its beautiful original color combination, the restoration was done to high standards, and both the cosmetic and mechanical aspects distinguish this car as an unusually nice Roadster. It comes with its matching numbers engine case and also comes with Certificate of Authenticity.

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.

Inquire About This Car

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