As documented by its Kardex build record, this Porsche 356 A Speedster, chassis 84333 was constructed 19 December 1957 finished in Light Ivory (5704 B). Equipped with sealed-beam headlights, a speedometer in miles, and United States-specification bumpers, the car was destined for distribution via Max Hoffman’s pivotal New York dealership.

By the late-1960s, 84333 had reportedly made its way to Philadelphia, where it was sold by noted 356 expert Bruce Baker to aspiring racing driver Ed Parlett. Having recently wrecked his previous Speedster, Parlett sourced a Porsche 912 engine (numbered 746019), installed disc brakes from a 356 C, and set about racing his new prize. While not the most gifted driver, Parlett possessed a passion and talent for tinkering with his machine, including installing a Super 8 camera protected by a self-made aerodynamic windscreen to record his laps and study ways to improve.

Accompanying period photographs and dash placards document Parlett driving his orange #45 Speedster at SCCA events throughout the Northeast before parting with the car in 1975. Chassis 84333 then spent the next three decades in dry slumber before being sold in 2008 to a Hamburg, Germany-based enthusiast who mechanically refreshed the car while maintaining its well-earned racing patina.

Enthralled with the car’s aura and level of preservation, the new owner set about researching the car’s history which culminated in a 2012 trip to Ed Parlett’s Philadelphia-area home where he graciously shared stories, invoices, and detailed notes relating to each of 84333’s racing endeavors. The notes included such minutiae as which weather prevailed at each race, what the asphalt temperature was, and how the car had been prepared each time.

With magnificent patina and fascinating history, this exceptional Porsche Speedster is ideally suited for spirited driving and would make a wonderful addition to a host of vintage driving events and rallies across the globe.