The American fascination with Porsches took off when importer Max Hoffman brought 15 special roadsters to the United States in 1954. In 1959, the Reutter-bodied Roadster was replaced by the sophisticated Convertible D, which boasted a taller windshield, wind-up windows, and a top that fit better and had improved looks. The accompanying Cabriolet offered even more creature comforts. The 356B arrived in 1960, with 15-inch wheels, heavier and taller bumpers, and a revised slope to the hood. Headlights were moved to the top of the fenders, with amber parking lights below them, and brake vents below the bumper.

The car on offer is a T6 1600 Super Cabriolet in black, with a black cloth top and bright red interior. It has had only one owner since the 1960s and is an original “black plate” California car that has been driven sparingly and has a very interesting history. It was stored for over 30 years before its recent restoration; the Certificate of Authenticity report documents the cars originality. With this documentation and history, plus the restoration, it is easy to suggest that the Porsche may be one of the best available. The consignor notes that the car has the “original leather seat upholstery interior,” and that the car has the correct drivetrain components for this car. The very well-detailed restoration is said to have not compromised the originality of the car. This aspect was not sacrificed and it retains original door jamb paint since new, original trim and original glass are still with the Porsche. The 356B Cabriolet has never been hit or damaged, it has its original floors, body panels and battery box. The factory weld spots are still present. The Porsche is photo documented and pictures from the past years are included with the sale, as are additional documents from the original owners.