Porsche’s iconic 356 Speedster first appeared in 1954 after U.S. distributor Max Hoffman convinced the factory that it needed a product with which to compete with lower-cost British imports. What Porsche delivered was a bare-bones roadster with a base price of just under $3,000, which was exactly what Hoffman needed to get customers in the door. Unlike the luxurious 356 cabriolet, with its fixed windshield and numerous comfort features, the Speedster was minimal in design, with side curtains instead of roll-up door glass, a removable windshield, ventilated thin-shell non-reclining bucket seats, and little else—but a lot of fun!

Chassis no. 84100 was completed on 15 November 1957 for the 1958 model year, the 356 A Speedster’s final year of production. According to a copy of the factory Kardex, it was originally finished in its current and attractive shade of Meissen Blue. This example was also fitted with sealed-beam headlamps, U.S.-specification bumpers, and a 60-hp Type 616/1 engine bearing number 67644. Like many Speedsters, it was destined for export to the sunny climate of California. After allegedly spending its first 40-odd years in the Golden State, the Speedster arrived in Chicago by 2003. At that time, the car received a minor service and was maintained as necessary, while an additional, more comprehensive service was performed in 2007, for just under $7,000.

From 2009 to 2010, the car was treated to a full cosmetic restoration by Porsche specialists in Chicago, Illinois. This restoration included a bare metal refinish, reupholstering of the bucket seats, and finally an overhauling of the engine by noted Porsche specialists at Beck’s European in Scottsdale, Arizona, in 2011. Since the restoration, chassis no. 84100 has been in the care of a collector and has been properly maintained, including a recent major service.

This very attractive Meissen Blue 356 makes it easy to appreciate why Porsche Speedsters were one of the most popular sports cars of their day. It is supplied with a copy of its factory Kardex and a Certificate of Authenticity, owner’s manual, tools, jack, as well as the recent service receipts.