Amidst the rubble of post-war Europe, it’s unlikely that Ferry Porsche could perceive the impact that his new lightweight nimble sports car would have on the motoring world. At inception, the 356 went rather under the radar, not like trying to order a new GT3 today! In fact, in the first two years of production, Porsche only managed to scrape together 50 cars for paying customers.
But they stuck with it, and we’re thankful they did. Throughout the 1950s, Porsche developed their sportscar, iterating and improving as time went on. Now designated as Pre-A, 356 A, 356 B and finally, the 356 C. The C, the final form of the 356 is what we have here, little changed between the last of the 356 Bs when the C was released, but the major change was the addition of disk brakes.
Whilst eventually, the 356 would be phased out, replaced in part by the 912 it remains a firm favourite of Porsche enthusiasts and collectors. The later 356 C models offer increased driveability and usability thanks to their disk brake set-up.
This car was purchased from Duke of London as a restoration project in 2017 and Romance of Rust subsequently carried out the majority of the metal work repairs.
The car was completely stripped and any remaining corrosion cut out and repaired; subsequently finished in its wonderful original colour of Champagne Yellow and the underside protected with raptor.
The engine was partially stripped and inspected. The heads were soda blasted and refurbished and barrels and pistons inspected. All of the tin-ware was stripped and powder coated.
It benefits from a large bore piston and barrel set (JE pistons) making the engine now 1720cc instead of the original 1600cc and is also fitted with a remote oil filter for better oil preservation and cooling. Currently running on points, there is an electronic ignition module available if required. The carburettors have been stripped and rebuilt.
A new balanced clutch and flywheel assembly has been fitted and the end float set to the manufacturer’s specification.
The fuel tank has been blasted and checked for leaks prior to powder coating.
The interior has been kept original as much as possible; the dash top and rear panels have been re-trimmed and a new headlining fitted. The front seats have been re-trimmed with original leather Porsche covers and new carpets have been fitted through out.
All new door locks have been fitted so one key now fits both doors and ignition switch. New glove box and gear lever lock key blanks have been sourced but will need cutting to suit the locks. It may be possible to obtain the key numbers from the build sheet but unfortunately Porsche never identified the barrels with key numbers.
Externally the car is fitted with a period style boot rack.
All the suspension and steering has been overhauled with new king pins and bushes at the front. The steering box has also been overhauled.
The wheels have been replaced with period style alloys as used by the racing driver Dan McAfee back in the 60’s and being slightly wider they fill the wheel arches nicely providing improved grip. They are wrapped in new Michelin tyres. The original chrome wheels are available however they would need complete re-furbishment. One is currently being used as the spare.
The brake system has been completely overhauled with re-built callipers and new brake pipes. The car has been fitted with a dual circuit brake master cylinder for improved safety.
The car has been converted to 12V negative earth, and has a new alternator fitted to replace the old dynamo. The rev counter has been converted to run at 12V, and where necessary voltage droppers have been fitted to retain the original gauges and wiper motor. The car benefits from new headlamps and rear lamps and period Oben spot lamps. A new wiring loom, fuse box and ignition switch has been fitted. All red rear lenses are available if required.
No area of the car has been overlooked and a significant amount of time and money has been spent re-chroming, polishing and sourcing hard to find components. With the exception of the worthwhile improvements, a great deal of effort has been put into maintaining originality and rebuilding the car back to its factory specification.
There is an impressive and extensive record set to go with this car, included in which is evidence that this has been a well loved and cherished example. From restoration work and engine rebuilds to service and maintenance records.
This surely, is an excellent opportunity to own an icon of motoring, that is ready to enjoy ahead of the warmer summer months
As with all our vehicles, a full digital folder is available on request containing more images, walk-around videos, and scans of the service history. The bike can also be viewed by appointment at our West London showroom.
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