| Expected !
Porsche 356 B roadster 1960 ruby red , black Leather ,Vin #
87593 Engine P*85963*
The basic design of the 356 remained the same throughout its
lifespan, with evolutionary, functional improvements rather
than yearly superficial styling
changes. Nevertheless a variety of models in both coupe and
convertible forms were produced from 1948 through 1965.
Cabriolets (convertibles) were offered from the start, and
in the early 1950s sometimes comprised over 50% of total production.
One of the most
desirable collector models is the 356 "Speedster",
introduced in late 1954 after Max Hoffman, the sole US importer
of Porsches, advised the company
that a lower-cost, open-top version could sell well in the American
market.
With its low, raked windshield (which could be removed for weekend
racing), bucket seats and minimal folding top, the Speedster
was an instant hit,
especially in Southern California. Production of the Speedster
peaked at 1,171 cars in 1957 and then started to decline. It
was replaced in late 1958
by the "Convertible D" model. It featured a taller,
more practical windshield, glass side windows and more comfortable
seats. The following
year the 356B "Roadster" convertible replaced the
D model but the sports car market's love affair with top-down
motoring was fading; soft-top 356 model
sales declined significantly in the early 60s.
To distinguish among the major revisions of the model, 356's
are generally classified into a few major groups. 356 coupes
and "cabriolets" (soft-top)
built through 1954 are readily identifiable by their split (1948
to 1952) or bent (center-creased, 1953 to 1954) windshields.
In 1955, with numerous
small but significant changes, the 356A was introduced. Its
internal factory designation, "Type 1," gave rise
to its nickname "T1" among enthusiasts. In
early 1957 a second revision of the 356A was produced, known
as Type 2 (or T2). In late 1959 more significant styling and
technical refinements gave
rise to the 356B (a T5 body type)
This car is totally restored, after starting with a true California
car.
|