Fantasy Junction

Description

1960 Porsche 356 B Roadster
s/n 88825, Engine no. P*604531*
Ivory with Red Leather

Among Porsche enthusiasts, there is a never ending debate about which model is the ultimate open 356. The Speedster has long been regarded as the most collectible, and does enjoy a certain 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 more civilized refinement of the Cabriolet. Additionally, thanks to 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), the B Roadster is also a superior driving car.

This particular example is believed to be just a three owner car by the current owners. As explained to the current owners by the previous custodians, s/n 88825 was purchased new in Paris, France and later shipped to Coral Gables, Florida. It had been in indoor storage for perhaps as much as a decade when they purchased it in 1983. Shortly thereafter, the car saw an extensive west coast road trip which included a memorable trip along California’s Pacific Coast Highway. Indeed, an appropriate road for such a sporting, open air car!

The current owner’s purchased the car in 2005 and have performed considerable restorative works since. The car was painted and reupholstered. West Coast Porsche 356 guru Alan Klingin at The Stable has “gone through” the car mechanically, including rebuilding the engine to Super 90 specification. Invoices on file for more recent work includes a major chassis, engine, and driveline service in 2007 which included a steering box and brake adjustments, and the freshening of all fluids. In 2010 a brake system service and restoration was performed by Del Mar Automotive.

The car drives exceptionally well, and will be ideal for perspective new owners looking forward to road rally and tour events. The engine, while originally a normal, has been upgraded to “Super 90” specification. The 741 transmission shifts well and offers a much more robust feel than those fitted to the earlier 356 series cars. Thanks to its very recent brake system rebuild work, the car stops straight and effectively.

Cosmetically speaking, this is a nice driver car. While the undercarriage has been subject to the normal corrosion repairs typical of the 356 series cars, the work was carried out to reasonably high standards. At some point in the future additional work could be carried out within the area when the longitudinals meets the outer floors, but the floors are solid at this time. The panel match is generally good, save for the lower door to rocker panel areas. The interior has been fully re-trimmed in beautiful red leather, and is excellent. Correct square weave carpets are installed, along with correct black rubber floor mats, as original. A Nardi wood rimmed steering wheel has been fitted, while the gauges and other switchgear remains original. This example has a newer canvas soft top in very good condition. The frontal storage area and engine bay are both clean and tidy, and in keeping with excellent driver standards.

Included with the car are select maintenance and ownership records, a 356 spiral bound owner’s manual, the tool set with tools, a matching spare wheel with tire, a jack, and two sets of extra keys.

Benefitting from their roll up windows, the 356B Roadsters are ideal for all weather touring or rally events. This example, having been regularly maintained by a 356 expert, with good driver cosmetics, will achieve the perfect balance for next owner to enjoy on the open road with a clear conscious.

Please note that this 356 B Roadster is titled in California as a 1961 year model.

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