Delivered in late 1959 this final year 356 A was finished in Ruby Red with a black interior, outfitted for the US market. We’ve known this 356 for roughly 15 years and have always admired its patina and originality.
Discovered in San Diego by Tom Shaughnessy, the 356 was sourced by Kerry Morse for a noted collector, before ending up with restorer Mark Allin of Rare Drive. During Mark’s ownership, nearly every mechanical item was serviced or rebuilt. The work included an engine and gearbox rebuild, new clutch, rebuilt suspension and steering, new brakes with proper ATE wheel cylinders, new exhaust, fuel system rebuild including the installation of an electric “priming” pump and more. Furthermore, the car’s underside was stripped, assessed as solid and original throughout, and received a new coat of correct undercoating.
The 356 received some necessary cosmetic attention as well, both inside and out, but a great deal of effort went into preserving the originality and amazing patina. Many original parts and materials were sourced to complete the project, including interior trim pieces to avoid, as best as possible, any newly replaced finishes. One can see the time and money spent, from correcting minor authentic details, fixing or adjusting the various body and chassis systems, and adding period correct accessories like the desirable vent windows and vented “GT” type brake backing plates front and rear.
We’ve seen this car in action on several tours including the Colorado Grand where it performed flawlessly. In addition to the aforementioned mechanical work, Mark elected to put taller gearing in the car, making it more comfortable with modern traffic and at freeway speed. The upgrade, in conjunction with an engine rebuild makes the car a great performer for both tours and weekend outings.
This desirable late “T2” A Coupe retains its original engine, gearbox, stamped body panels including the hood, deck lid and doors, in addition to many other date-code correct items throughout. The car is complete with an original toolkit, and the Porsche retains many original factory finishes, and has a uniform patina throughout. A 356 with such a cool and desirable appearance is hard to find in such a genuine original state, let alone one with so much effort put into its usability.
Please visit hagemanmotorcars.com for more photos and info.
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