This is not just another 356 Cabriolet — it is one of the most genuine, well-preserved, and thoroughly documented examples available in the world today. A car that has survived for more than six decades with an astonishing level of originality, supported by continuous and meticulous stewardship of true enthusiasts.
Delivered new in Germany at the end of 1964 to Mr. Sachs as a factory-ordered vehicle, this Cabriolet left Zuffenhausen equipped with European instruments (still in place today), a km/h speedometer, and rare cold-climate heat exchangers. Mr. Sachs immigrated to the United States in late 1965 and took this SC Cabriolet with him, eventually settling in San Francisco.
In 1967 he advertised the car for sale in the Porsche Panorama magazine —the magazine from 1967 accompanies the sale of the car.
From there the car remained in the US until 1990, when a dealer in Munich imported it back to Germany. Customs documents from that time record approximately 50,000 km. It was then sold to an owner in Reutlingen, who in 2004 passed it on to the last long term owner, Mr. Gross, with roughly 59000 km on the odometer. A bill of sale from that transaction is available.
Mr. Gross is a passionate Porsche 356 connoisseur known for his meticulous nature. Under his care, this Cabriolet has been sympathetically maintained rather than restored.
Originality that defines the car:
Fully numbers-matching: Engine, transmission, front and rear hoods, and doors all match.
Every body panel is original. The floor pan is completely original with only minor welding at the battery tray — no other repairs.
The body originality is described by experts as sensational — a level rarely seen in surviving 356 Cabriolets.
Interior & Details
The interior remains entirely original and untouched. The front seats show only very light, attractive patina that enhances the car’s authentic character. The condition of the upholstery, for a car of this age, is simply outstanding.
The cabriolet top retains its original inner liner and padding; only the outer cover was renewed in the correct blue to match the exterior. All factory sound-deadening material is still present and undisturbed in the floor, front trunk, and rear engine compartment. The original carpets are still in place — a true rarity. A set of original Sisal floor mats with minor wear but excellent overall condition is included.
Mechanical History & Expert Care
2006: Transmission fully rebuilt as needed after a crown-and-pinion issue. When removed, the untouched original factory paint markings on the mounting bolts confirmed it had never been out of the car before.
2008: Repainted in its original color for cosmetic preservation. The underside was ice-blasted — revealing zero rust and no structural welding on the floor pan. It was then protected with a thin layer of flat black rust protection paint.
2014: Engine partially rebuilt by H. Loch, one of Germany’s foremost 356 engine specialists (renowned for 4-cam work). New connecting rod and crank bearings, valve seats and shafts renewed, engine fully resealed.
2023: Carburetors meticulously rebuilt by the company Reile, another leading authority in 356 engine preparation.
This is a car that has been serviced by the best of the best in the German Porsche 356 scene.
With its extremely rare factory color combination, impeccable provenance, matching numbers throughout, and remarkable preservation, this 356 Cabriolet stands in a class of its own. It is the kind of car that serious collectors dream of but seldom find: Highly original, mechanically sound, beautifully presented, and ready to be driven and enjoyed while remaining a true time capsule.
This has to be one of the finest 356 SC Cabriolets on the global market.
An opportunity of this caliber, with this level of documentation, history, and condition, will almost certainly not present itself again.
Serious inquiries only. Full documentation, including the Panorama advertisement, bills of sale, and detailed service records along with mileage documentation, will be provided to qualified buyers.
The little 356 runs and drives extremely well and the 95hp pushrod engine has a good punch to it and sounds fantastic.
Please study all the photos closely to evaluate the condition of this car!
Located in our showroom in Auburn, CA. Pre purchase inspections welcomed!
Worldwide shipping is gladly arranged!
Please contact us for further information!
The above vehicle information has been thoroughly researched and confirmed and is accurate to the best of our knowledge. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.