The 356B, in coupe, cabriolet and roadster form, offered superior mechanicals to its predecessors; internal engine upgrades included stronger connecting rods and a more efficient oil pump. It also featured an improved gearbox, shifting linkage and brakes; while externally, the revised T5 body saw the front fenders and headlamps raised, and the hood was flattened. This mechanically inclined machine was capable of a top speed of 109-mph. The redesigned bumpers were mounted higher on the body, and bumper guards were added for better parking protection. The rear bumper guards featured twin exhaust outlets. About 31,000 356B’s were manufactured between 1960 and 1963.
Under the bonnet of the Porsche is a nicely detailed 1,582-cc flat four-cylinder engine that produces an estimated 75-hp. The transmission is the standard four-speed manual. The information contained on the Certificate of Authenticity is congruent with the stampings on the car. The outside of the car is finished in the desirable Fjord Green with dual rear-view facing mirrors on the fenders and polished wheels wrapped in Michelin tires. The interior sports pleated bucket seats upholstered in black with matching door panels.
The roadster is capable of being an enjoyable daily driver with wind-up windows and a comfortable interior, and it also eligible for weekend amateur track competition by simply removing the bolt-on curved-glass windshield and hubcaps and installing a rollbar. Drauz built the Roadsters in Heilbronn, Germany, and the body shapes and lines are sculpted to pierce through the wind. This vehicle has been recently repainted and is fitted with a new top, upholstery, bumper guards and refinished chrome. This particular vehicle has reclining seats, ashtray, black convertible top and the important Porsche Certificate of Authenticity. It has been owned by the same gentleman for over 40 years and has received impeccable care during that time. Porsche stated, “All it shares with other cars is the road.”