Fantasy Junction

Description

1960 Porsche 356B T-5 Cabriolet
s/n 152891, Engine no. 601375
Radium Green Metallic with Green Leather Interior

For more than half a century, enthusiasts and collectors have continuously sought after the iconic and agile Porsche 356. Initially brought to market as an update of the “A” model in 1959, the “B” series cars offered refinements and improvements to the already capable rear engine sports car. Thoughtfully designed and sporty, the 356 B offered customers the high quality, value, reliability, and mechanical robustness that Porsche would become so well known for in the coming decades.

This particular cabriolet is an early production T-5 356 (production build 12/22/1959) thus featuring the desirable “A” series curved hood line contour rarely seen on the B series cars. Noted marque expert Bill King comprehensively restored this car to be his personal car for both show and driving enjoyment. Bill is known for having owned and restored multiple Porsches throughout his career including award winning Speedsters and Roadsters. The restoration was photographically documented (photos included with the file on the car) and completed to a high standard with the original engine and gearbox rebuilt to specifications. The car has since been very well sorted throughout the 2700 miles covered prior to restoration. This 356B has been awarded Best of Class nearly every time it has been shown, including Judges Choice at the 2013 Concours On the Avenues in Carmel, CA.

The overall paint is beautifully done in stunning Radium Green Metallic (a 1952 356 A color) with uniform gloss and finish throughout the car. According to the Porsche CoA this car was delivered in silver metallic with Green Leather interior. The current green metallic paint has to rank among one of the nicest colors available on a Porsche. The fit and finish of all opening features is excellent, with the doors shutting properly and tightly. The bumpers and various exterior trim fit beautifully with no major flaws of note. All lighting and emblems are in excellent condition. During the restoration a set of original style fog lamps and correctly contoured body side trim were added to enhance the look of the car. Overall the visual exterior presentation is among the nicest you will find for a car that can be driven and enjoyed as well as confidently shown.

The interior has been restored accurately with correct components and stunning instruments displayed across the body colored dashboard. The interior is authentically finished (per CoA) with green leather which accents the exterior color perfectly. The correctly finished bucket seats now include period correct headrests on both seats. Important to note that the seats have been purposefully “cupped” on the bottom bolsters to allow better comfort and grip when driving. The seating comfort due to these subtle changes greatly enhances the driving experience without compromising originality. The carpet is of high quality and correct style weaving showing only very minor wear due to recent use. Black floor mats are included. The black canvas top is in excellent condition, appearing essentially as new with tight fit to the windshield header and very nice clear plastic rear window. The mechanical top armature moves freely and nests smoothly into the rear compartment, which can be covered using the cabriolet cover. The original style instruments function properly and are in beautiful condition. A modern radio has been installed without cutting the dash. A handsome Moto-Lita wood-rimmed steering wheel has replaced the original, but adds to the beauty of the presentation. Overall the interior of the car is wonderfully trimmed, generating a cohesive appearance to the entire cabin.

The doors, hood, and trunk open and shut smoothly; exhibiting excellent fit and proper finish along the jambs and inner surfaces. The trunk area is well presented with correctly strapped spare tire, and proper tool roll. The engine compartment is very well detailed and correctly restored using largely original parts and finishes, having been fully rebuilt using a big bore kit to 1720 cc standard. Care and attention is given to proper fasteners and a cleverly concealed LED third brake light hidden under the engine vent. Detailed photos of the restoration indicate a complete disassembly, rebuild, and proper finishing to the engine and engine compartment.

Underside inspection reveals a very tidy car that has been properly cared for showing very nicely finished floor pan, suspension, and brakes. The suspension, various components, and proper gearbox are all in excellent condition showing very minor evidence of use since the restoration was completed.

The car starts reliably and idles smoothly with a nice raspy tone ready for action. The original gearbox (no. 34037 noted on the CoA) has been properly rebuilt and operates wonderfully up and down with smooth synchros, warm or cold. Smooth, even clutch movement and confident shifting are easily at hand. The car travels nicely along smooth roadways with no chatter when encountering bumps in the road. It has to rank among one of the nicest driving 356s we have experienced in recent years. Acceleration is brisk as the engine winds up into the higher RPMs without hesitation or misfire. Braking is very good overall as is cornering and handling. It is easy to see that this 356 has been properly restored but also sorted out as a reliable and usable car, one that can be used daily should anyone consider it. The car comes with a file of documentation highlighting the ownership history and photos of the restoration. It should be noted that while itemized amounts and expenses of the restoration are not available, Mr. King is willing to provide a detailed letter noting the specific rebuilt mechanical components and cosmetic work performed during the restoration.

A high quality reproduction tool roll, tools, and jack, accompany the car as well as a convertible top cover in new condition. The Porsche Certificate of Authenticity (indicating correct serial number, original engine, and options) as well as an original owners manual are included with the sale.

Exceptional color combination, dynamic open cabriolet configuration, and beautiful award winning restoration combine to make this 356B T-5 the perfect car for the enthusiast who will enjoy showing and driving this handsome example of the iconic Porsche 356 for years to come.

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