The 356 was the first mass-produced car to bear the Porsche moniker and enjoy worldwide success. Under the leadership of Ferry Porsche, the son of the company founder and patriarch, development initially relied on Volkswagen components. Unibody construction was paired with a four-cylinder, horizontally opposed engine, resulting in a light, relatively quick, and tremendously enjoyable sports car.

Evolution and sales success came quite quickly. Max Hoffman, importer extraordinaire, exposed the entire American market to the virtues of Porsche performance and engineering, establishing a devoted following for the various 356 iterations, particularly the Speedster, for which he is largely credited. The cars were continually refined, with displacement increasing from 1,086 cubic centimeters all the way to 1.6 liters and even beyond.

This 356 SC was completed in March 1964, finished in the very desirable Champagne Yellow (6405) over a black leatherette interior, the same combination that it wears today. Optional equipment at the time included the rare Golde electric sunroof, chrome wheels, fog lamps, and a chrome luggage rack. The interior was equally well appointed with driver and passenger headrests, a Blaupunkt Frankfurt radio, two loudspeakers, an antenna, and a wood steering wheel. The car was delivered new to Culver City, California, and had been in the hands of a previous owner since 1976.

In 2003, the 356 was thoroughly restored in its original and striking color combination. It currently retains its original body panels, with great floors, and the bodywork is exceptional, with very good fit and finish. The paintwork is of a high quality, and the panels remain very straight with good gaps throughout. The chrome is in good condition, and the lights and lamps are excellent. The wheels are properly date-coded, including the spare, and have been beautifully re-chromed. The Porsche also features a recently rebuilt replacement transmission. The original matching-numbers 1600 SC engine is equally impressive, having been cosmetically refinished during the restoration. It is well detailed, with the correct decals and small details, like the correct and original oil-filter housing.

The car was recently driven by an RM Sotheby’s specialist, who can attest to how well the car drives and how nice it sounds, especially with the sunroof open. The original 1600 SC engine pulls through the gears with surprising power, and the car handles exceptionally well through the turns.

There is nothing quite like a great Porsche!