Porsche 356 Roadster (1960)

"Porsche 356 Roadster. Built in 1960. Restored perfectly. Be careful: the paint is still wet…! "

That’s right: restoration of this slate gray (Schiefergrau) Porsche 356 Roadster has just been completed. Before the photo shoot, we only had spare time to put the re-chromed wheel covers back in place. It’s clear that the restoration’s quality is at a very high level. We thought it was almost a shame to cover the beautifully restored wheels again ... Fortunately, there are so many other beautiful parts to see. Or rather: to be admired. Without any words.

This Porsche 356 Roadster is the epitome of perfection. There is no part to be found in deviation. Every single component appears to have been plucked straight from Porsche's assembly line. Or of an even better quality. The car certainly deserves the ‘show condition’ qualification. We dare to say that this classic 356 is better than new. And not just its looks. After a major overhaul by the renowned Porsche specialist Auto Service Kraan in Aalsmeer, the technology is brought back in perfect condition. ‘As new’ doesn’t cover it. This car is new, really!

The original order form, sent to the factory by the Porsche dealer in New York, lists a Porsche 356 Roadster, slate gray and fitted with a red leatherette interior. The original buyer opted for the modest 1600 variant, in which the air-cooled four-cylinder boxer engine made it to an output of just 60 bhp. However, the car was ordered with (optional) adjustable backrests and Continental tires. The Roadster version of the 356, with a body that was manufactured by Karosseriewerk Drauz in Heilbron, had been listed in the factory’s catalog as a simplified and cheaper alternative to the 356 Cabriolet. The Roadster can be regarded as the successor to the famous 356 Speedster. According to the documentation found in the Porsche archives, construction of this 356 Roadster was completed on January 14, 1960.

With an engine power of 60 hp, it is hardly possible to speak of a sporty experience by today's standards. As a result, during restoration the decision was made to replace the original 1600 engine with a revised four-cylinder boxer of a later Porsche 912. This rear mounted engine also has a displacement of 1600 cc, but with an output of 90 bhp. This makes this 356 Roadster a lot more entertaining! Incidentally, the original engine, which is still in good health, is supplied with the car.

A particularly tasteful side step from the original specs is the car's interior. This is no longer covered in red leatherette, but was rebuilt by the craftsmen at Peet Classics with dark green leather, combined with a dark gray wool carpet that has been finished with dark green piping. Together with the slate-colored paint and the subtle chrome trim on the dashboard and door panels, the final choice of colours is a very stylish and subtle combination. The Nardi steering wheel with its aluminum spokes and wooden surround adds a sporty accent to the interior of the car.

Although many will describe this Porsche 356 Roadster as a museum piece, that was certainly not the goal during restoration. Thanks to the more powerful engine, you will feel the urge to drive this car as frequently as possible. In the final phase of restoration, the car covered almost 500 test kilometers, during which the engine tuning was perfected. This also applies to the chassis and steering. Even though this Porsche 356 Roadster is in concours condition, it is not a car that you will transport on a trailer. The car has been restored for different purposes.