The 356 was the first mass-produced car to bear the Porsche moniker and enjoy the worldwide success that would make way for the introduction of the company’s 911 model in the mid-1960s. 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.

After the end of 356B production in July 1963, the 356C was introduced as the final version before the introduction of the 911, which finally arrived on the U.S. market for the 1965 model year. However, besides the revised hubcaps and Dunlop four-wheel disc brakes, changes were rather minor.

This matching-numbers 1964 Porsche 356 SC has undergone a nice restoration to a show/driver level, and it is a very well optioned, beautifully restored, rust-free long-time California car. It was delivered to California new and had been in the hands of the previous owner since 1976. This Porsche is a rare Sunroof Coupe, which is perhaps the ultimate specification and configuration for the discerning collector. It has its original body panels, with great floors and panel alignment, and the bodywork is exceptional, with very good fit and finish. The paintwork is of a high quality, in the original color, and the panels are extremely straight. The chrome is very good, and the lights and lamps are excellent. The wheels are date-code matching and are beautifully chromed. The 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. As well, this Porsche features a recently rebuilt stock transmission. The car is a pleasure to drive, as it has a wonderful coherent feel and excellent performance from all of its mechanical systems.

There is nothing quite like a great Porsche!