In October 1959, a Navy Lieutenant known as Warren Jones placed an order for a vehicle VIN 86669 from Mitsuwa Motors LTD in Japan, at a cost of $3,071.95 USD. Following its importation to California, the car was registered and driven in San Mateo for 54 years under Mr. Jones‘ ownership. The vehicle was driven sparingly, with most of its mileage being recorded between 1970 and 2003. Service records dating back to 1971 document a linear progression of mileage. In 2013, Mr. Jones elected to sell the vehicle, which was subsequently traded to an East Coast collector before ending up in the hands of Mrs. Paprocki. Under Paprocki’s care, she entrusted Automotive Restorations Inc (ARI) in Stratford, Connecticut with the task of maintaining the car in excellent mechanical condition. In March 2017, ARI performed a complete overhaul of the braking system, installed new sway bar bushings, and replaced transmission mounts at a cost of $5,719.75. In 2017, Mrs. Paprocki invested over $20,000 to completely rebuild the engine and transmission and replace any worn components. ARI continued to service the vehicle, addressing any issues until late 2021. European Collectibles subsequently sold this 356 to its current owner, who worked with Eisenbud’s Inc. in Denver, Colorado, where the engine was tuned, and a new clutch was recently installed.
This Convertible D was recently restored for the current owner including a complete disassembly and repaint. The Black paintwork is stunning with perfect gaps and panel fit. The upholstery is all new and is in excellent condition featuring an original steering wheel with a deluxe horn ring, VDO instrumentation, leather front seats, correct door panels with pockets, oatmeal German square weave carpets, and CoCo mats. The 4.5” x 15” wheels are painted silver and fitted to 165 R15 radial tires with baby moon chrome hubcaps. The undercarriage has been fully detailed and is in exceptional condition.
Mechanically, powered by a matching driveline, the 1600cc Normal engine produces 60 horsepower and has plenty of power with a manual 4-speed transmission (Type 716). Complete with maintenance instructions for Porsche bodies booklet, Becker operation instructions manual, Becker service booklet, operating instructions for convertible top – booklet, owner’s manual, and 63 years of service history. Convertible D’s have become highly collectible, however, this particular 356 is an exceptional find due to its impeccable documentation and meticulous restoration.
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