Porsche introduced the 356 Roadster in 1960 to replace the one-year-only Convertible D. Like its predecessor, the Roadster was a sporting open-body style that was both stylish and practical to use. This example, specified from new with the desirable high-performance Super 90 engine and finished in the striking color scheme of Ruby Red over gray leather, is believed to have been a one-owner car until earlier this year. Reportedly, the original owner also had a Speedster that served as a show car, while this Roadster was his preferred driver.

Presented today in wonderful, unrestored condition, the Roadster retains a fundamentally original feel, and the consignor notes a 1961 date marked on the battery cover, along with the proper stampings on the deck lid and trunk.

The Roadster’s rubbed-through paint and patinated interior lend it a charming, well-worn appearance, which the consignor states has garnered much admiration. Mechanical work performed this year includes a new clutch, carburetor rebuild, and fuel-tank cleaning, performed by European Collectibles in Costa Mesa, California, and Werner Schott in Santa Barbara, California.

As a genuine, matching-numbers example of the rare Super 90 Roadster, this car offers an ideal starting point for a restoration. More appealingly, however, it affords the pleasure of driving an open Porsche 356 in high-performance specifications, while its charismatic appearance gives it a unique feel and more-relaxed ownership experience.