Fantasy Junction

Description

1962 Porsche 356 B “Twin Grille” Roadster
s/n 89622, Engine no. P*804020*
Oslo Blue with Tan 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, lined 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). Produced only during 1962, the pick of the 356B Roadsters is the last of the line, cars with twin cooling grilles in the engine lid, outside fuel door, and the squared off trunk opening that defines the T6 body. Just 249 examples of the twin grill roadster were built, making them extremely rare and collectible.

This particular example- sold new in California- is a fresh out of a comprehensive cosmetic and mechanical restoration, and remains as-new in every respect. Aside from fair weather trips to and from car shows over the Sumer of 2010, this example has not been driven since completion. The body and floors are in excellent condition, with outstanding panel match and fit. The paint work was done to first class standards. The chrome is fresh and mirror-finish throughout, including the date code matching wheels and hubcaps. All lights and lenses are in excellent condition as well.

The interior of the car is equally impressive. The leather upholstery on the seats is as-new, and the door panels were upholstered to high standards in leather. The carpets are excellent throughout, and employ the correct German square weave material, and new rubber floor mats were also included. The instruments and switches are excellent. The steering wheel is excellent, and a new horn button has been fitted. The car has a lovely and fresh tan canvas top- the correct material for the era- and a well done full leather top boot.

The engine compartment is fully detailed to show standards and quite correct as well. The correct decals are in place, and the car has the original-style oil flilter canister. Both the engine and transmission were rebuilt by Honest Engine’s, known for their work to 356 Porsches. The rebuilt engine fitted to this car, while a true Super 90 and correct “356 B” series unit by number, is non-matching to this chassis, and was fitted at the time of the restoration. Although the car has been badged “S90”, but is not one of the 37 “Twin Grille” Roadsters originally fitted with the Super 90 power plant.

The underside is structurally solid, dry, and fully detailed to show standards as well. The underside of the engine is also dry, and shows the signs of a careful and thorough rebuild.

The trunk is very nice as well, with restored date code matching spare and leather strap to hold it in place. The correct plastic liner tray is also in place, as is the labeled fuse box cover, both in as-new condition.

With this example come restoration records, replacement tools and manual, date matching spare wheel, and the jack. Concours shown and virtually as-new in every respect, this is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire a desirable twin grille Roadster in a great color combination. Truly a case of the last and best, overshadowed for years by the Speedster, the 356B “Twin Grille” Roadster has emerged from years of under appreciation, and this example is sure to appeal to the enthusiast who appreciates the quality of the execution of this particular car.

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