This 1961 Porsche 356 Cabriolet was desirably specified with a Super engine and finished in the striking, and very period, color combination of Fjord Green over a light brown leather interior. Interestingly, this convertible 356 was sold new to John Ernst of Greenwich, Connecticut where it was quite obviously used as an occasional, good weather sports car.
In 1974, the Cabriolet was acquired by noted Porsche and Volkswagen collector Ernst Benzein. In his decades of collecting, Benzein assembled a fantastic collection that comprised of mostly 356s and early VWs that were noteworthy in both spec and condition. Benzein was discerning and appreciated preservation, seeking out cars which were the right model, the right color, low mileage and well cared for. Benzein kept his cars in Connecticut as well as Santa Barbara until his passing.
In 2016, this Cabriolet was acquired from Benzein’s estate by Patrick Long, the Porsche racing driver and founder of Lufgekuhlt. Patrick brought the car out to California where it received some necessary servicing and enjoyed occasional use. In 2019 the decision was made to part with the car, and we helped a dear friend of ours from the Pacific Northwest acquire the car.
At the time, the car showed approximately 43,000 miles on it and remained a highly original example. With intention of using the car, the current owner continued to service the car as needed, which included rebuilding of the carbs and going through the ignition system. During her ownership, the car has taken part on the Pebble Beach Motoring Classic, the roughly 1600 mile rally from the Seattle area to Monterey. Currently showing 47,638 miles, the car has been regularly used over the past 7 years and recent service invoices document the level of sorting and care it has received. On a recent drive, the car performed flawlessly and has all hallmarks of a low-mileage, original example. The car is smooth and solid, the gearbox is a delight, and there isn’t a squeak or rattle – a unique feet for any convertible 356.
Today the 356 remains highly original and an astute eye will see the many rare original details on the car. The Porsche was previously painted, likely during or just before Benzein’s ownership, while the opening compartments all retain the original factory paint. The upholstery is original as well, with the front seats having been re-dyed at some stage – likely pre-dating Benzein’s time with the car. The outer canvas of the soft top has been replaced, and perhaps the only cosmetic need would be a new headliner, though it is certainly usable as is.
The Porsche still has its original shift-pattern decal in the front window, which is remarkable. The car has an original “red tip” antenna, original lights and lenses throughout. All the numbered and date coded items are present and as expected. The Porsche can be described as fully matching numbers, including the body panels, engine and gearbox.
Additionally, the 356 is complete with its factory toolkit and jack, along with its owner’s manual set, including the factory original service book and other original literature. Furthermore, the car is documented by a copy of the Kartex, original invoice and sales docs. The service book along with a service decal in the driver door document the early mileage accrued, confirming it to be a low mileage example.
Given the original colors, Super engine, the provenance, low mileage and original, unrestored condition this is a truly special 356 and an opportunity for those who want something genuine.
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