1958 Porsche 356A 1600 Ruetter Coupe

Porsche introduced the 356A at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1955, thoroughly updating their 356 line-up of coupes, cabriolets and speedsters. Major changes were the 1600 cc engine, curved screen and revised suspension. Ruetter remained the coachbuilder.

From the outside the 356A was only slightly different, wider tyres, a rubber strip below the doors and the curved screen marked the changes. The interior received a flat-face dashboard, locking glove box and a radio. Other appointments included headlight flasher, automatic interior lighting and self cancelling indicators.

This beautiful 1958 LHD matching numbers example was a dry state Californian car imported into the UK in 2010 and formed the basis of a 4 year nut and bolt documented restoration.

Initially work started on the car with hand striping all components and paint from the body shell to assess the condition of the car. Remarkably it was in excellent condition even for a dry state car and needed only minimal body repairs, with the original one-piece floor still intact needing no welding.

Reassembly began once the body was finished and painted in its stunning Lido green colour. Parts fitted to the car were either restored to as new condition or replaced with genuine Porsche 356A parts. At this time the original engine was also completely dismantled and rebuilt again using genuine Porsche parts.

Inside the car was also subject to a comprehensive restoration with the interior reupholstered and the fitment of sporty and elegant Speedster style seats. New tailored carpet was also fitted along with new headlining in the vehicle.

Recently completed just a matter of weeks before the auction, a full detailed picture folder of the restoration, including invoices, is presented along with the car.

A great chance to acquire an exceptional and desirable Porsche 356A, in like-new condition, so fresh from restoration it has not even been run in yet.

Please note* at time of photography car was not 100% complete.