The Porsche Type 356, introduced in 1948, is widely considered to be one of the world’s great sports cars. The 356 B, produced from 1960 through 1963, represents the mid-point in this design’s progression. In what is known as “T5” form, the B introduced new front and rear sheet-metal, while retaining the curved front trunk lid and rounded fenders of the A series. The headlamps were raised, a larger hood handle added, and front vent windows appeared in the doors. Mechanically, the gearbox and drum brakes were upgraded. A new steering wheel and column refreshed the interior, along with redesigned rear seats.

Reutter manufactured a reported 4,415 356 B coupes in 1961, but relatively few were fitted with the optional higher-performance Super 90 engine package. Delivering a solid 90 DIN horsepower at 5,500 rpm along with almost 90 foot-pounds of torque, the Super 90 was the strongest pushrod engine Porsche had offered to date. It benefitted from a higher 9.1 compression, a more aggressive camshaft profile, larger intake valves and bearing surfaces, Ferral cylinders, improved internal lubrication including a larger oil pump, and a pair of 40mm twin-choke Solex carburetors of the type used on early Carreras. A stronger Hausermann clutch package was standard, and for the first time, Porsche offered a transverse rear “helper spring”, or camber compensator, to improve high speed handling. With an extra 15 horsepower in hand and a curb weight of less than 1,985 lbs, a Super 90 could easily pull away from a standard 1600 Super on the open road and see almost 180 km/h.

This beautiful Aetnablau over light grey leatherette-trimmed 356 B Super 90 Coupe was ordered by a Mr. Donald E. Pinder of Los Angeles, California through Porsche sales agent Raffay & Co. in Hamburg, Germany, and delivered new to that dealer on September 19, 1961. Though early provenance is scant, chassis 116638 was imported to, and registered in The Netherlands in 1999. The numbers matching engine is nicely detailed,and has benefitted from an engine rebuild courtesy of noted marque specialist AutoService Kraan in Aalsmeer, North Holland. The 15” wide-five steel wheels and their chrome hubcaps present nicely in all regards, and reportedly retain 1961 date stamps. Originally fitted with drum brakes at all four corners, this example has been upgraded with front disc brakes, a performance configuration sourced from the later 356 C. Now showing 22,300 km on its odometer, this stunning Reutter-bodied coupe presents an eminently attractive opportunity to own an example of Porsche’s heritage. As a well-conditioned and presentable 356 B provided in the desirable Super 90 performance configuration, this blue coupe is sure to thrill.