107 bhp (SAE), 95 bhp (DIN), 1,582 cc air-cooled, horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine, dual carburetors, four-speed manual gearbox in rear transaxle, independent front suspension with parallel trailing arms, transverse laminated torsion bars and anti-roll bar, independent rear suspension with swing axles and transverse torsion bars, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 82.7"

• Matching-numbers example of the final Porsche 356 series

• Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, books, tools and more

• Three owners from new and single ownership for 45 years

The brilliant 356 series, in all its forms, remains the cornerstone of Porsche’s heritage and continues to be highly prized by collectors and motoring enthusiasts. As the first car to bear the Porsche name, the landmark 356 was relentlessly developed, improved and perfected into an intense competitor, both on the racetrack and on the showroom floor. Light, quick and tremendously enjoyable to drive, the 356 gained a loyal following and an identity all its own, with an avant-garde flair enjoyed by few other automobiles.

Evolution and sales success came quite quickly. Max Hoffman, Porsche’s U.S. importer extraordinaire, exposed the entire American market to the virtues of Porsche performance and engineering, establishing a devoted following for the 356 and all its permutations. At first glance, Porsche’s 356C, which debuted in mid-1963, differed little from the prior 356B and continued to use the T-6 body type introduced in 1962. The new 356C, however, was a major evolutionary step forward with its standard Dunlop four-wheel disc brakes, higher-lift camshaft for the 1600 C engine, new flat-face hubcaps and deeper bucket seats courtesy of Porsche’s acquisition of Reutter, which owned a subsidiary that later became world-famous as Recaro (short for Reutter Carosserie).

The up-rated 1600 SC replaced the Super 90 in the Porsche lineup and provided meaningful increases in horsepower and torque output that translated into heightened performance and drivability. Top-speed performance of 125 mph was now available on demand, with 1600 SC capable of delivering equally impressive fuel consumption of 30 mpg. Representing the ultimate evolution of the basic 356 concept, the 356C was produced until September 1965, when both the 911 and the 356-powered 912 succeeded it.

This special, late-production 356C Cabriolet is a rust-free example that retains all the original body and floor panels and represents the fulfillment of its current owner’s 10-year search for the “right” car. As one of only 1,784 356C Cabriolets built for 1965 and a high-specification 1600 SC with all matching numbers, it is even more desirable. According to its Certificate of Authenticity from Porsche, this Cabriolet was produced on June 24, 1964 and finished in Light Ivory with black leather upholstery. It was sold new on February 22, 1966, and just three owners have enjoyed it since that time, including one single owner for 45 years of its existence. Documented mileage is approximately 106,000.

The Cabriolet recently received a nut-and-bolt restoration to as-new condition, with the engine and gearbox handled by noted 356 expert Vic Skirmants, while Ooley & Blackburn refinished the car in 2009. In addition, the entire suspension and undercarriage were rebuilt. Used only sparingly for shows in its current ownership, this 356C also features seat headrests and is offered complete with a remarkable selection of items including all the original books and records from new, the never-used tool kit, a top boot, a Leitz luggage rack and one piece of luggage. Handsomely presented, this late-production 356C/1600 SC Cabriolet will be sure to deliver the outstanding driving experience for which this model is renowned.

Please note, this car is titled for model year 1965.