Porsche 356 C

The vehicle in detail

Originally manufactured on December 14, 1964, this European-spec 356C was purchased in Germany by its first owner, Charles van Horn, during a U.S. Air Force temporary duty assignment. While abroad, he added a Reutter factory hardtop, recognizing the need for additional protection during harsh German winters. Upon returning to the United States, van Horn transported the car via Air Force cargo plane to Wright Patterson AFB in Ohio, where he later sold it in 1973 to the father of the current owner. The Porsche would go on to serve as a cherished family heirloom, driven until 1984 and then stored and preserved until its eventual restoration.

In 2016, this 356C underwent a no-expense-spared, body-off restoration that spanned several years and was overseen by the late Neil Goldberg, author of The 356A Porsche. Restoration highlights include engine rebuilding by Rick Bennett at Sports Car Factory, transmission overhaul by Vic Skirmants at 356Enterprises, body and sheet metal restoration by Pete Jackson at Pete’s Custom Coachbuilding, and a complete interior refinish by Roderick Hof at HOF LLC. Every component was carefully restored or replaced to exacting standards, with period-correct finishes, decals, and chrome details restored or replated.

Remarkably, many original features have been retained: the 512 body stamp is present on the doors, hood, engine lid, and floor pan, while rare components such as the factory key fob, Becker Europa AM/FM/SW radio, Reutter hardtop (#67931), and upholstered rear side panels remain intact. Even the cabriolet frame’s wooden bow is original. This car is rust-free, with no Bondo or fiberglass repairs, and boasts pristine panel gaps and flawless paint. New ventilated chrome wheels and Cibie headlamps complete its period-correct aesthetic.

With just 52,961 miles on the odometer, the car has a well-documented maintenance history dating back to 1973, illustrating the exceptional level of care it has received. All restoration work was carried out by renowned 356 specialists and aimed to return the car to factory-original condition. The result is an incredibly authentic representation of a 1965 356C Cabriolet that could easily stand alongside the finest examples at top-tier concours events.

In terms of collectibility and historical significance, this 356C stands in rarefied company. Its European heritage is evident not just in its accessories and lighting, but also in the story of its acquisition and use abroad. As the final iteration of the 356 series, the C model brought disc brakes and the highest level of refinement to the line. Combined with its exceptional ownership history, rare options, and expert restoration, this 1965 Porsche 356C Reutter Cabriolet offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts seeking one of the most desirable open-top Porsches ever produced.