The successor to the widely acclaimed 356 Speedster, Porsche’s Convertible D, premiered just in time for the summer of 1958. It was noticeably less spartan than its predecessor, yet it benefitted from a three-inch taller windshield, roll-up windows, a more robust convertible top, and a more upscale interior. New and larger teardrop-shaped taillights would replace the earlier “bee-hive” style lamps, and the U.S. cars were fitted with front and rear bumper guards and over-riders. The Convertible D benefitted from a new set of creature comforts, yet it still retained all the soul of the outgoing Speedster, resulting in Porsche’s sales literature describing it as “a dynamic car of beautiful proportions. Extra light and low in design for competition and pleasure driving.”

Just a handful of Convertible Ds were constructed; more accurately, 1,331 examples between August 1958 and September 1959. As they boasted a curb weight of under 2,000 pounds and were outfitted with the smaller 60-horsepower Type 616/1 Normal engine, one could reach 60 mph in just over 14 seconds and top 100 mph. When considering the car’s incredible handling, quick steering, and excellent brakes, the Convertible D was a very exciting car indeed.

This 1959 Convertible D, which is outfitted with the Type 616/2 Super engine, was originally finished in Meissen Blue over Brown and highly equipped with a chrome luggage rack, a Becker Europa radio, and reclining seats, among other options. While the car’s early history is not known, it was acquired by Terrell Clampitt, of Safety Harbor, Florida, in the early 1980s. At this time, the car was in barn-find condition, yet it still retained all of its major original components, including its chassis and engine, as verified by its accompanying Certificate of Authenticity. Clampitt commissioned a full restoration of the car to its current red over beige color combination. Then, the Porsche was acquired by Mr. Pack in 2012, having traveled less than 500 miles since restoration.

The Porsche 356 will never go out of style, and the Convertible D in particular is an interesting model that bridges the gap between sporting and luxury. This very well-maintained example would certainly make a very exciting driver for the collector looking for both the fun of a speedster and the creature comforts of a convertible.