356 Replica

1970 Porsche 356 Speedster replica

The Porsche 356 is a sports car that was first produced by Austrian company Porsche Konstruktionen GesmbH (1948–1949), and then by German company Dr. Ing. h. c. F. Porsche GmbH (1950–1965). It was Porsche’s first production automobile.

The 356 is a lightweight and nimble-handling, rear-engine, rear-wheel drive, two-door available both in hardtop coupé and open configurations. Engineering innovations continued during the years of manufacture, contributing to its motorsports success and popularity. Production started in 1948 at Gmünd, Austria, where Porsche built approximately 50 cars. In 1950 the factory relocated to Zuffenhausen, Germany, and general production of the 356 continued until April 1965, well after the replacement model 911 made its September 1964 debut. Of the 76,000 originally produced, approximately half survive.

The 356 originated as a coupé only 1948–1955. Over time a variety of other styles appeared, including roadster, convertible, cabriolet, and a very rare split-roof. The basic design of the 356 remained the same until production ended in 1965, with evolutionary, functional improvements rather than annual superficial styling changes.

The car used unibody construction, making restoration difficult for cars that were kept in rust-prone climates. One of the most desirable collector models is the 356 „Speedster“, introduced in late 1954 after Max Hoffman advised the company that a lower-cost, somewhat spartan open-top version could sell well in the American market. With its low, raked windscreen (which could be removed for weekend racing), bucket seats and minimal folding top, the Speedster was an instant hit, especially in Southern California.

As the Speedsters were so desirable and not that many were produced, companies started to build very nice replicas, like the one we are presenting here today. This Speedster started its life as a 1969 VW Beetle and was later converted to a 356 Speedster replica by Classic Motor Carriages in Miami, Florida. She has been racing around some of the racetracks in the USA before she was imported into Belgium. She has been with her passionate family for at least 17 years, here in Belgium. As she was used for racing in the past, she comes equipped with a full roll cage, built in fire extinguishers, harnesses etc.

Inside you will find an authentic 356 steering wheel, replica 356 seats, original 356 dials and gauges, and a lot more period correct features. Mechanically she is ready to hit the corners hard, with her lovely air cooled 4 cylinder boxer engine which has been given a tune-up. Also her paint is in great condition with some really good patina. And to complete the look, an original set of Porsche steel rims have been fitted. The original bumpers are present with the car but aren’t fitted at the moment.

She comes with full Belgian registration and can be registered for road use. So what are you waiting for? Come and check out this great Speedster replica and enjoy the country lanes or race track.

Please contact us for more pictures, videos, a test drive or a zoom call. Or if you are nearby the east of Belgium, close to the Dutch and German border, please stop by.