Evolution and sales success came quite quickly for the Porsche 356. Max Hoffman, Porsche’s US importer extraordinaire, exposed the American market to the virtues of Porsche performance and engineering, establishing a devoted following for the 356 and all its permutations. Excluding the rare and costly Carrera, the 1600 C and SC cabriolets were Porsche’s most exclusive road cars of the era, offering comfort, performance, and enjoyable handling. Representing the ultimate evolution of the 356, the C was produced until September 1965, when it was succeeded by the 911 and the 356-powered 912.

According to its accompanying Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, this 356 C was completed on 6 November 1964, finished in Light Ivory over Black leather. As noted on a copy of its factory Kardex, the cabriolet was sold new through Competition Motors in Culver City, California to William J. DeVaney of Woodland Hills, California. Eventually, in 2013, the Porsche was sold to the Dare to Dream Collection. A restoration began just a year later.

As invoices on file detail, the body was entirely disassembled and stripped of paint in order to apply stage base/clear coats to the current shade of Black. The interior additionally had all upholstered panels removed and refinished with black leather. Lastly, the brakes, ignition system, and carburetors were serviced. As a result of this fantastic work, the Cabriolet shows in fantastic condition. Additionally, it benefits from retaining its matching-numbers engine and gearbox.

In late 1963, the Editor-in-Chief of Auto Motor und Sport said of the 356 C: “Unquestionably, this car has an endless fascination.” These final open-topped 356s remain highly collectible, and this striking C Cabriolet presents as a particularly appealing example.