Fantasy Junction

Description

1961 Porsche 356 B Roadster
s/n 89483, engine no. 604667
Metallic Grey with Red Leather 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 was the last single grille Roadster built and was in fact built by d’Ieteren in Belgium, which was true of all twin grilles but few single grille cars. The car was originally ivory but was restored in its current color combination of grey with red interior approximately ten years ago by Lowell Sivey, the well-known 356 specialist. The engine is built on a 1960 case and has been upgraded with 12V electrical system and mild cam. The motor has Mahle pistons and cylinders and Solex carburetors. The car has covered approximately 4000 miles since being restored and remains very crisp.

The car makes a strong cosmetic impression, with an attractive and unusual metallic grey shade of paint, offset by red leather interior. The body is very straight with excellent fit and gaps. The brightwork is generally excellent, though close inspection reveals extremely light pitting in selected areas and some minor deterioration to the finish on the wheels. The paint is nearly unmarked, with one chip of significance on the right front wheel arch. The lights and glass are very nice and the car is equipped with European front and rear turn signal lenses, as well as Hella 128 fog lamps. The top is a high quality canvas item finished in a striking shade of grey, with matching top boot.

The interior displays excellent workmanship and high quality materials. The grey square weave carpeting with contrasting red binding looks very smart, and the seats, dashboard, and door panels have been trimmed to high standards with matching leather upholstery. The painted dashboard is excellent, as are the instruments, and the car is fitted with desirable wood-rimmed Les Leston steering wheel, which is in beautiful condition.

The engine compartment was thoroughly restored to high standards and is nicely detailed. The car has Solex carburetors with correct Knecht air filters, and the electrical system has been upgraded to 12V with new coil and MSD ignition. The engine number indicates that it was produced near the end of the 1960 run. The trunk was also restored, including spare, fuel tank, and new windscreen washer bag. A new rubber mat was also fitted. The car comes with jack, lug wrench, and tool roll with tools.

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