Alex Dearborn

Back <--> Next Photo 1960 PORSCHE 356b Roadster, silver/red. sn 87358. Engine #601453. Color 6006 Silver Metallic with red interior and black top and tonneau cover. 5.5” chromed wheels, crested hubcaps, reclining seats.

For the 1960 model year, Porsche engaged the coachbuilder Drauz to build a small run of Roadsters to replace the discontinued Speedster. These were lower and lighter than the Zuffenhausen-built Cabriolets. They were built on the improved 356b T5 platform, with better brakes, handling, transmissions, and engines compared to the 356A they replaced. The result is a more useable road car. The improved top can be lowered and raised in seconds. Roll-up windows, better heaters and wipers further improve the car’s comfort and utility.

This 356b Roadster was restored in 1997 by Perfect Motion, a 356 restorer in Florida. The car was taken apart to the bare tub, and re-assembled with freshly-rebuilt parts as needed. I am told it was a "street" restoration, meaning not done for show points, but for driving. Mechanical components were rebuilt as needed, but not necessarily replaced unless needed. (Apparently, this was the second restoration) Our inspection confirms the underside is rust free, and the suspension parts look clean. It drives well, tracks straight, and handles well. The tires are 195/65X15 on 15X5.5 chromed wheels. We have just had the brakes done again, as they got sticky from sitting. The car has about 2,000 miles since restoration.

We have a letter of authenticity (Kardex) from Porsche in Stuttgart, showing that the car was originally a USA-delivery 1600N in silver with red vinyl upholstery, and reclining seats. The Letter shows the following numbers:
¥ chassis: 87358 (same on car)
¥ engine: 601453 (same on engine case)
¥ engine typ: 616/1 (616/2 now showing)


This may mean the car was uprated to a 1600S at some point, and indeed, it feels quite strong. The front compartment lid closes with a small gap, probably due to pressure from the spare tire. $49,500
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