Belgian title
Chassis n° 129913

- Rare model, matching numbers
- Restored to a high standard
- Exclusive dual ignition and 4-cam engine

Carrera : At Porsche, this magical word is synonymous with high performance. It harks back to the victory in the Carrera Panamericana in 1953 by a Spyder 550. Following that, Carrera versions of the 356 featured a four-cam, twin-plug engine designed for competition. Producing 100 bhp in its first version, the motor worked wonders in racing, with a combination of power and endurance that produced a win in the formidable Liège-Rome-Liège in 1954. The engine was suitable for all types of touring body, both coupé and cabriolet, and accompanied the career of the 356, which first appeared in March 1949, laying the foundations of all future road-going Porsche. The 1500 GS Carrera was first exhibited at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1955 and, in 1961, Porsche presented an evolution called the Carrera 2. This model was equipped with a 1966cc engine producing 130 bhp at 6 200 rpm. Available in coupé or cabriolet form, it had a level of comfort and equipment that made it more enjoyable and easier to use. It became the fastest production 356, while remaining one of the rarest with just 436 examples built.
According to its Kardex, this Porsche Carrera 2 was delivered new in Germany in "Signal" red with black imitation upholstery and grey velvet inserts. It was purchased new by Prince Max-Emmanuel of Thurn and Taxis, who sold it in 1966 to its second owner who exported it the following year to Canada. The third owner, Cappy Thompson, bought it in 1968 and took it to New Zealand in 1975. In 1983, although it was still in good condition, it underwent a restoration before being sold a few years later. In May 1988, at 72,000 km, it was bought by Phil Harris and sold in 1998 to Duane Hartley of Santa Rosa, California, who had the bodywork completely restored. The interior was restored by Tony Garcia and the engine by Bill Doyle in 2000.
In January 2017, model expert Jeff Adams of Speedsport Tuning (Danbury, Connecticut) inspected the car and noted the excellent quality of the restoration while confirming the presence of the original engine as well as correct period equipment such as the 356 C brakes, gearbox and even the Eberspächer gas heater.

This car is one of only 100 examples of the 356 Series C Carrera 2 produced. It is rare to find a Porsche 356 Carrera 2 still fitted with its original engine, and this example in superb condition and with its original colour is a tribute to this rare and sought-after model. Accompanied by a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, its Kardex, invoices and Jeff Adams' report, it is sure to tempt the enthusiast for exclusive and rare versions, capable of enjoying the driving sensations provided by this lively and light car.

Full catalogue and more photos https://www.artcurial.com/en/sale-4315-retromobile-2023-artcurial-motorcars