90 bhp (DIN), 102 bhp (SAE) 1,582 cc air-cooled, horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, four-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 82.7"
- Powerful Super 90 engine; Porsche driving dynamics
- Good running and driving condition
Between 1948 and 1965, more than 70,000 Porsche 356s of all engine and body configurations were exported to the United States. In that time, the 356 underwent a thorough and systematic process of improvement, a hallmark of Porsche engineering. Therefore, it is not surprising that the ever-evolving 356 models were, and remain, highly developed and sophisticated sporting automobiles. Shortcomings in design and execution were constantly being identified, analyzed, massaged and eliminated.
Porsche’s air-cooled, horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine was as close to bulletproof as Teutonic determination could make it. Rear suspension revisions, long since refined and perfected, produced the 356’s legendarily satisfying driving and handling characteristics. Construction had matured until fit, finish and function set the standard to which other manufacturers strived. While production Porsches existed in parallel with their racing counterparts and always benefited from the innovations gained through competition, they pursued their own course toward meeting and exceeding their buyers’ expectations.
By the time production ceased in 1965, the 356 was a consistent winner both in terms of sales and on the racetrack. Debuting at Frankfurt in September 1959, the 356B updated the body style from the prior 356A, but engine options remained unchanged. However, the changes made to the 356B improved comfort, handling and the overall driving experience.
Second only to the Carrera 2 in performance, this 90-bhp 1961 Porsche 356 Super 90 features a Reutter-built T-5 body and continues to benefit from an older restoration. Cosmetic imperfections are visible on closer examination, but these are of little concern for a car that is well suited for regular driving. Reportedly in good running and driving condition, as offered today, it sports a four-speed manual transmission, a correct AM radio and a spare wheel and tire.