Porsche 356 Pre-A 1500

The vehicle in detail

The 1955 Porsche 356 Pré-A represents the final chapter of the first generation of the legendary 356, just before the arrival of the 356 A. Produced for only a few months, this model is often referred to as the “Transitional 356,” as it preserves the aesthetic purity of the earliest examples while already anticipating some modernization features that would become standard in its successor.
Visually, the most notable change is the single-piece curved windshield, introduced in 1954 to replace the split glass and later the “bent window.” The body, with smooth and minimalist lines, still features typical Pré-A details such as the small rear “beehive” lights and the “PORSCHE” logo on the front hood, positioned further forward. The bodies were mainly offered in Coupé and Cabriolet versions, both built by Reutter, with very limited production: around 1,300 Coupés and only 200 Cabriolets in 1955. The most common wheels were 16 inches, although some units already received 15-inch wheels that would become standard on the 356 A.
Mechanically, the 1955 356 Pré-A used air-cooled 4-cylinder boxer engines based on the Type 546, much more sophisticated than the original VW engines from the early years. Available versions included the 1300 with 44 hp, the 1300 Super with 60 hp, and the 1500 with 60 hp, the latter particularly appreciated for offering respectable performance for the era, with a top speed of around 170 km/h. All models were equipped with a 4-speed manual gearbox, front suspension with torsion bar and longitudinal arms, rear suspension with swing axles, and drum brakes on all four wheels.
Inside, the 1955 Pré-A retained the simplicity of the early Porsches but already featured a higher level of finish. The dashboard could have two or three circular gauges depending on the version, accompanied by a large light-coloured Bakelite steering wheel. The seats, upholstered in leather or vinyl, offered improved comfort compared to previous years, and the chrome trim was elegantly arranged, reflecting a growing refinement in overall build quality.
Thus, the 1955 Porsche 356 Pré-A holds a special place in the brand’s history: it is the last of the “originals” and, at the same time, a precursor of the evolution that would come with the 356 A. For collectors, it combines the raw and minimalist charm of the first phase with improvements in comfort and performance, along with the exclusivity derived from its relatively short production, especially in Cabriolet versions.
This advertisement was published by computer routine; all details must be confirmed with the seller.