The 356 Speedster is one of the most coveted of all Porsche models. Introduced in 1954 at the urging of the famous New York importer, Max Hoffman, who wished to have a roadster to compete with the popular British cars that were the rage in America at the time. The stripped down, minimalist Speedster was an instant success, offering the same high build quality as the Porsche cabriolet and coupe, but at a lower price of just under $3,000. The Speedster is among the most iconic and recognizable sports cars ever produced, coveted by collectors and enthusiasts for generations.

Nineteen fifty-eight was the final year for the legendary 356 A Speedster, of which this car dates from February production. This beautifully maintained example is one of 73 produced in the rare and elegant Fjord Green color from the factory. Formerly used as a race car, as many Speedsters had been, this example was then restored some years ago with the goal of enhancing performance and drivability while retaining the look of the car’s original appearance. With these goals in mind, a later 1600 SC engine case was sourced and brought to the famous Porsche mechanic Harry “The Maestro” Pellow, who built it to 1,750-cc with a large oil tube, a balanced crank, and Weber carburetors, as well as a sport exhaust. While internally optimized for performance and durability, the engine was cleverly backdated to visually retain the original aesthetics for 1958, but now produces over 100 hp. The work is fully documented and one of the very last engines built by the legendary “Maestro.”

Additionally, the mechanicals have been restored to original factory specifications, including the brakes, wheel bearings, suspension, steering, fuel system, and ignition system, and the heating system was completely restored and is fully functional. The transmission was gone through as well, including the shift linkage. The six-volt generator was rebuilt, as was the starter. Every system has been restored correctly for the year, right down to the correct windshield wiper system, unique to 1958 speedsters, with the original 1958 specific mechanical pump on the floor.

Chassis 84381 has also benefited from new correct square weave carpets, restored gauges, upgraded sealed beam headlights, and a new custom top (correctly fitted without wrinkles) on its “high-bow” top frame and matching side-curtains. Date-stamped 1958 factory wheels have new, period-correct tires mounted as well.

With an iconic design, rare and desirable factory color, powerful engine, and rebuilt mechanicals, this exceptional Speedster is ideally suited for spirited driving and maximum enjoyment. It would surely qualify for acceptance at may major driving events and rallies in the U.S. and Europe.