Fantasy Junction

Description

1964 Porsche 356SC Cabriolet
s/n 159955, Engine No. 811315
Slate Gray with Red Interior

The legendary Porsche 356 remains today one of the hallmarks of sports car design. With its unique profile and race-inspired lineage, the 356became the first Porsche to proudly bear the family name of Ferdinand Porsche. Introduced in 1948, the 356 continually evolved with cosmetic and mechanical refinements until 1965, when production yielded to the 911. Throughout the years of development, the most impressive advancements came in the form of the 356 C. Offered with standard Dunlop four-wheel disc brakes, higher lift camshaft in the 1600 C engine, and deeper bucket seats, the newest 356 set a new standard for the model line. The up-rated 1600 SC replaced the Super 90, providing increased performance, drivability, and a top speed of 125 mph.

This beautifully finished original Slate grey matching numbers 356 1600 SC Cabriolet has been documented with Porsche Certificate of Authenticity and retains the original Kardex. According to the Kardex, this late production car was completed February 13, 1964 and delivered April 17, 1964. The exterior color Schiefergr.6401, Slate Gray, and Leder Rot, Red Leather are also noted on the Kardex. The first owner is recorded on the Kardex in Warwich, Rhode Island.

This stunning Cabriolet received a comprehensive restoration by marque specialists who restored the car to a high level of authenticity. Approximately ten years ago, the previous owner commissioned the restoration, spending almost a decade prior searching for the right car, one that retained original components and offered great original colors. The restoration of the original rust free body and chassis, allowed for straightforward preparation and high quality refinishing only as needed. The original Slate Gray exterior color was accurately matched and applied with attention to panel gaps and fitting, being careful to treat the inside surfaces, doorjambs, and underside areas with equal care. The engine was disassembled and comprehensively rebuilt with attention to detail and finish accuracy. Critical suspension components were removed and rebuilt as needed. During the restoration, weather stripping was removed and replaced and the original glass was reinstalled. All exterior components were correctly treated including new front and rear bumper rubber trim, rear bumper over-rider exhaust tips, and correct reflectors and lenses.

Today the car presents as a nicely mellowed restoration exhibiting thoughtful ongoing maintenance and care by the current owner. The paint is nicely done with high gloss and very good panel fit on the doors and deck lid (both of which retain the matching factory stamped numbers), but with a handful of minor use marks around the car. The chrome and various trim throughout the car are in excellent condition, including the wheels, bumpers, and correct flat surfaced wheel covers. Lighting, lenses, and script are all in excellent condition. The windshield and side glass are in very good condition with no major chips or scratches. The wheels are beautifully chromed and still retain a very high quality finish overall with tires that have plenty of tread remaining for enjoyable driving.

The interior of the car has been handsomely restored with excellent seats trimmed in correct leather showing only minor use to the driver’s seat. The supporting trim for the doors, carpet, and dash are very nicely done, following closely to original specifications. The instruments are beautiful with excellent color to the dials, no fading, and correct needles. The original type steering wheel has been restored to a very nice level, with the gloss black rim revealing hints of time spent enjoyably driving this delightful 356. The rear seating, carpeting, and remaining interior components are all in harmony with the interior presentation overall. The top and top boot are in excellent condition with tight fit and firm closure to the windshield frame and around the boot area.

The engine compartment reveals a nicely restored original, numbers matching engine, just as it left the factory and as noted in the COA and Kardex. Restored using correct finishes, decals, and appropriate hardware, the engine and engine compartment remain nicely presented despite time having lapsed since restoration – a tribute to the excellence and durability of the restoration originally performed on the car. The spare tire and storage area are in equally nice condition, showing proper finishes and correct materials including a correct date-stamped chrome plated spare tire rim, and embossed Porsche matting. The underside of the car is clean and very well prepared. As noted during the body restoration, the original panels were in nice enough condition so as to dictate only minor work and proper surface preparation. Suspension and brake components, while not detailed for show, are in very nice condition, including the soft lines and miscellaneous hardware.

Driving this car, one is reminded how delightfully light, nimble, and capable these cars truly are, particularly when driving a nicely prepared original bodied car. The engine starts easily, settling into a composed idle, delivering a soothing 1600 SC Porsche sound. The gearbox is very good, operating smoothly without issues, both warm and cold. The engine offers progressive, consistent power with virtually no vibration, delivering performance reflective of the original specifications. The brakes and steering are firm and well sorted without play. Suspension is compliant in corners, while road manners on the highway are smooth and pleasant, yet responsive when the road opens up and asks for just a bit more.

Included with the sale are the Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, Kardex, records of service and recent work, a spare set of keys, tools and tool roll, jack, and owner’s manual, and an assortment of useful extra parts. This handsome Porsche exhibits all the best 356 traits one might expect with the added boost of power from the 1600 SC engine and disc brakes. Sporting excellence, air cooled lineage, and unique design, all wrapped up in a delightful turnkey Cabriolet, ready for summer fun, vintage events, or club shows.

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