The 911 is Porsche’s longest-lived model, but it was the 356 that established the marque’s sterling reputation. More than 76,000 were built from 1948 to 1965, including coupes, speedsters, and cabriolets. While its basic form changed very little, there were several generations. The first cars with split windshields continued through 1954. An updated model 356A debuted that year, with a curved windshield and a modified suspension. In 1959, the 356B was introduced, with a new front contour that elevated the headlights.

By far, most Porsche bodies were built by Reutter, of Stuttgart. Karosseriesfabrik Reutter & Co. had a long alliance with Porsche. Established in 1906, the firm was an early user of aluminum and also pioneered lightweight bodies using Weymann fabric patents. They had built prototypes for Ferdinand Porsche in 1932, for the genesis of the Volkswagen, and they also bodied BMWs and Mercedes in the thirties. When the Porsche Company returned to Germany from Austria in 1950, Reutter leased them some factory space for car production, and they built the early bodies, including coupes, cabriolets, and speedsters.

Extremely attractive in silver with a blue leather interior, this 356B 1600 Cabriolet has a black canvas top with a blue boot that matches the leather. Carpeting is a very subtle shade of blue-grey. Panel fit is excellent, as is the paint. The brightwork is all in very good condition. The matching-numbers engine, restored and correctly appointed, shows some signs of recent use.

The car is fitted with a Blaupunkt tri-band AM/FM/short wave radio and a rare and desirable VDM steering wheel with optional horn ring; the car also comes with the factory jack. This Reutter cabriolet is undoubtedly one of the finest.

Titles as 1961.