Porsche 356 C

The vehicle in detail

The paintwork is in very nice condition, with some patina, and presents beautifully. The exterior features Black California plates, Hella 128 fog lights, chrome components, and a Lietz luggage rack. The upholstery is in excellent condition and includes headrests, a VDM steering wheel, VDO instrumentation, a Blaupunkt AM/FM radio, and CoCo mats. 4.5” x 15” chrome slotted steel wheels are mounted to Nexen SB-802 165 80 R15 tires. The undercarriage is solid, rust-free, and has been detailed, including the suspension.

San Diego Motor Imports delivered this 356 to the first owner, Mr. Powell. The 356 was serviced regularly from new until 1969, accumulating 30,216 miles. In April 1969, it was purchased by the second owner, Mr. Lyons, who continued servicing exclusively with Dieter’s in San Diego, California, and from 1970 to 1976, the 356 served as a daily driver. In 1979, its third owner, Mr. Keach, based in San Diego, California, had maintenance performed by Porsche specialists, including Han’s Foreign Car Service and Sorrento Valley Car Service. On April 4, 1981, the matching engine received a complete rebuild, and Mr. Keach enjoyed the 356 for another 5 years. The fourth owner, Mr. King, acquired the 356C in 1985 and used it sparingly until 1989. In 1990, the fifth owner, Mr. Walters, acquired the 356.

In 2000, Beck’s European in Scottsdale, Arizona, performed the second engine rebuild. In 2009, European Collectibles acquired and sold this 356 to a local client and installed a completely new interior. On January 22, 2024, Dieter’s Porsche & BMW Service performed an annual service including valve cover gaskets, fuel and air filters, drive belt, ignition points, gear oil, engine oil and filter, and a valve adjustment. In October 2025, European Collectibles acquired this 356C Coupe once again and stripped the undercarriage to steel; the original floor pans, longitudinals, and battery box were in excellent original condition. The undercarriage and suspension components were refinished to factory specs, followed by a full service and inspection.

Mechanically, the 356C is powered by its matching 1600cc flat-four engine (Type 616/15) producing 75hp, paired to the matching 4-speed manual transmission (Type 741) with four-wheel drum brakes. Complete with an owner’s manual, two sets of keys, a spare wheel, a jack, a tool kit, and 56 years of meticulous service documentation. An exceptional opportunity to acquire a well-documented, 356C Coupe presented in its factory colors with a matching driveline.