When the Porsche 356 appeared in 1948, few could imagine the impact that this small, streamlined sports car, which was based on a Volkswagen platform, would have in the decade-and-a-half to come. The car that Ferry Porsche created proved its worth in competition almost immediately; it brought class victories across a wide variety of events, from LeMans, where it won the 1,100 cubic centimeter class in 1951, to rallying and hillclimbs. By the end of the decade, it was clear that this pint-sized rear-engined car was a true giant killer. It created the foundation for a road and track dynasty that continues today.

Porsche steadily developed the 356 to add power, improve handling, and provide increased comfort. The introduction of the 356C in late 1963 saw a major styling changes, with the headlights raised, becoming more upright and having larger bumpers, first disc brake system and revised twin-grill rear decklid. Inside, the backseat rest was split for added versatility. Fifteen-inch wheels and improved brakes led the mechanical development.

At first glance, Porsche’s final-series 356C, which debuted in mid-1963, seemed to differ very little from the prior 356B and continued to use the T-6 body type introduced during 1962. However, the new 356C represented a major step forward with standard Ate four-wheel disc brakes based on the Dunlop design, a higher-lift camshaft for the 1600C engine, flat C hubcaps and deeper bucket seats. The uprated 356C/1600SC period-correct engine replaced the Super 90 in the Porsche model lineup and provided heightened performance and drivability with 125-mph now available while maintaining exceptional fuel economy. Representing the ultimate evolution of the basic 356, the 356C was produced September 1963 until September 1965, when the all-new 911 and 356-powered 912 succeeded it.

Technical Specification - 1,582-cc air-cooled flat four-cylinder engine with twin Solex carburetors (complete engine rebuild in 2005 with over $10,000 invested), four-speed manual transmission, parallel trailing arm front suspension with laminated torsion bars, rear swing axles with transverse torsion bars, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 82.7-inches

This is an extraordinary example of the 356C Cabriolet; options include chrome wheels and a AM/FM radio. It is finished in a classic color combination – per Certificate of Authenticity - original color - Slate Grey with Red leather interior. It is reported as an exceptional example in classic colors in excellent mechanical condition. The 356C was the last and most advanced iteration of the 356 line, it is a phenomenal daily driver that is totally reliable and easy to maintain, and comes complete with Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, tool roll and owner’s manual.