Porsche’s popular 356 Roadster was introduced for the 1960 model year as a replacement of the one-year-only Convertible D, which was in turn the Speedster’s more civilized successor. The new T-5 Roadster brought several marked changes in appearance; the front fenders and headlamps were raised, as were both the front and rear bumpers, to better deal with urban parking, and new vertical bumper guards also helped in that respect. New brake-cooling intakes were also added to the nose below the front bumper. There were new cast-aluminium Alfin brake drums with iron liners, and the brakes had improved sealing to repel water.

The new Roadster shared many of the comfort attributes of the Convertible D, including roll-up windows, comfortable seats, and a well-constructed convertible top with a tan-painted frame and wraparound plastic rear window. For those with competition in mind, the windshield could be removed, and Roadsters, like the Speedster and Convertible D, soon became popular in amateur sports car racing around the world.

This 356 B 1600 S Roadster, chassis 89097, was built in May 1961 and delivered new to Porsche Car Pacific in San Francisco, California. It was then sold to Günther A. Knapp of Portland, Oregon. As noted on the factory Kardex, a copy of which is included on file, it appears the car returned to Porsche Car Pacific for regular servicing throughout 1961, having covered 572 kilometres in its first five days.

More recently, the car has been completely restored over the last five years and has covered just over 1,000 kilometres since its completion. Currently presented in its original colour combination of Slate Grey with a red leather interior and fitted with reclining seats, this 356 B offers a great opportunity for exciting top-down motoring with the wind in your hair.