Hoffman proposed to Ferry Porsche that a sportier, more basic variant, selling at a lower price, would bring dividends. Thus was the staging for the premier of the 356 Speedster, strategically specified for the burgeoning American market. Reutter & Co., of Stuttgart; already with a close Porsche association, supplied the body. The firm also assisted with engineering, for economic purposes. A low, raked windshield was made removable for racing, and light bucket seats replaced the standard type. Side windows were omitted entirely—owners had to rely on side curtains. The top was very basic, and the only instruments were a speedometer and a temperature gauge. The tachometer and heater were optional, helping to keep the basic price under $3,000, when delivered in New York. Minimalistic and racing focused was exactly what thousands of customers craved and desired.

Powering this German sports car is an air cooled 1,600-cc four-cylinder engine that is connected to a smooth shifting four-speed manual transmission. The exterior is finished with white paint, a single sideview mirror, painted bumpers and chrome factory wheels. Complementing the outside of the car is the red interior tailored with leather upholstery, a lockable glovebox and complete VDO instrumentation that includes a tachometer. Under the bonnet is a full-size spare tire and a factory tool kit.

This is an excellent example of an early 356A that has been carefully and thoughtfully restored.