By 1965 the Porsche 356 was in its final model year, with the 911 having been introduced the year prior as the future of the company. These later cars were the most highly developed of all 356 models, and offered amenities such as disc brakes, providing strong performance in all conditions. The ultimate production interpretation of the pushrod-engine 356 was the SC model introduced for 1965 and offered in coupe and cabriolet forms. Its 95 hp engine was the strongest of any 356 apart from four-cam Carrera models, and it proved a fitting sendoff for the model.

The 356 SC Cabriolet offered here is one of approximately 588 examples built in 1965, and was sold through Competition Motors in Culver City, California, to its first owner, Bennett Kerns of Beverly Hills. According to a copy of its factory Kardex, the Porsche was originally finished in Schiefergrau (Slate Grey) with a Schwarz (Black) leather interior. The Kardex also documents that the engine and gearbox currently fitted are original to the car.

Purchased by Richard Donner from Mr. Kerns in 1971, this 356 has remained a beloved and loyal companion for roughly five decades. During that time the car was well kept, but never fully restored. It has since been resprayed in black and the black leather seats have been reupholstered. It would eventually be moved to his home on Orcas Island, Washington, where it was used on sporting drives on the island with family and good friends. Donner was a great fan of having a proper stereo in his cars, and had the Porsche fitted with a more modern head unit along with an amplifier and speakers. At some point the factory Solex carburetors were replaced with Webers, along with corresponding aftermarket air cleaners.

Whether used as a driver in its current condition or as the basis for a sympathetic refurbishment, this very collectible Porsche featuring a lovely color combination and retaining its original powertrain is sure to fit the bill for many a Porsche connoisseur.