Porsche’s popular 356 Roadster was introduced for the 1960 model year as a replacement of the one-year-only Convertible D, the Speedster’s more civilized successor. The new T-5 Roadster brought several marked changes in appearance: The front fenders and headlamps were raised, as were both the front and rear bumpers, to better deal with urban parking. New vertical bumper guards also helped in that respect. New brake-cooling intakes were added to the nose below the front bumper. There were new cast-aluminum Alfin brake drums with iron liners, and the brakes had improved sealing to repel water.

The new Roadster shared many of the comfort attributes of the Convertible D, including roll-up windows, comfortable seats, and a well-constructed convertible top with a tan-painted frame and wraparound plastic rear window. For those with competition in mind, the windshield could be removed, and roadsters, like the Speedster and Convertible D, soon became popular in amateur sports car racing around the world.

This very attractive 356 B 1600 Super Roadster by Drauz left the factory on December 15, 1959, wearing Silbermetallik paint (6006) and trimmed and upholstered in Dark Blue Leatherette. According to its Certificate of Authenticity, it carried only a few factory options, such as reclining driver and passenger seats and Phoenix tires. Its chassis number places it just about halfway through the run of 560 T5 Roadsters built for the 1960 model year, and its original Type 616/2 engine, which could develop 75 brake horsepower at 5,000 rpm, was the ninth from last manufactured in the 1959 calendar year.

While its early history is unknown, chassis number 87279 is believed to have been cosmetically restored by Classic Showcase in Oceanside, California, while under the tenure of a previous owner. Its original dark blue interior has been changed to period-correct red leatherette, and the carpeting is black. The black canvas folding top with tan lining appears to be in as-new condition.

The consignor, an Arizona resident, acquired the car in 2012 and believes that it had been purchased by the previous owner around 2005. The consignor brought the car’s mechanical components back to original specification in 2013. Beck’s European, an independent Porsche specialist in Scottsdale, located the original engine and overhauled it, along with a replacement transmission (originally number 33964). Beck’s also went through the electrical system and brakes to ensure that the car was in top operating condition. Receipts totaling more than $36,000 are included with this car. The car has accrued fewer than 300 miles since its overhaul, and the odometer currently reads around 45,500 miles, although its total mileage is unknown. This Porsche is displaying very good panel fit, and its paint is excellent, as is its well-executed interior. The brightwork and glass appear to be in excellent condition as well.

Roadsters of all years have become highly collectible, and high-quality examples such as this come to market infrequently. This handsome 356 Roadster is perfect for club shows or enjoyable top-down weekend touring. It is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.