Widely acknowledged as Porsche's first venture into motor manufacturing, the 356 was a lightweight and nimble rear engined, rear-wheel-drive, two-door sporting car available in hardtop coupé and open configurations. Over a 15-year production period, the 356 evolved from an aluminium bodied coupe with an 1,100cc air-cooled flat-four engine to a 2,000cc four-cam Carrera engine producing 130 bhp.
The 356 "B" was produced from 1960 to 1963 and saw body changes that included a curved front trunk lid, rounded wings compared to that of the 356A and new front and rear sheet metal. To comply with US-federal specifications, the front and rear bumpers were raised and over-riders added. Other key changes were raised headlamps, larger door handles, upgraded brakes and some improvements to the cabin.
This left-hand drive 356 B is a very, very presentable example of Porsche's jewel-like little sports car. With only 8,000 km covered since the car was restored in 1997 and having been stored correctly over the years, the car shows little sign of deterioration. The interior is excellent and just the way you would hope to find it with the painted simplicity that shouts "fifties", soft, gently patinated black leather seats and simple well-fitting door cards. The engine bay is tidy and good enough to show off at car shows, the chrome gleams and the lovely Signal Red paintwork would outshine the Sun on a Spring morning in a snow-covered Alpine Pass.
Restored to its original specification, the car retains its drum brakes and six-volt system as well as being finished in the aforementioned factory colour of Signal Red (6171). During the restoration, the engine was changed for a stronger Super 90 unit, giving an increase in power and a providing a more spirited drive.
As well as being a competent and sporting Coupé, this "Little Red Rooster" is a perfect representation of the late fifties/early sixties period that is absolutely in fashion at the moment, and this 356B T5 would be welcome at any classic car event /rally/garden party or anywhere really. "Strike while the iron is hot" as they say.