1960 Porsche 356 B Super 90

In September of 1959, Porsche revealed their fully updated 356 known as the 356B using the revised T5 bodyshell. This differed from its predecessor with the front and rear bumpers being raised by nearly four inches and the headlights repositioned higher, these changes being necessary to meet the stringent vehicle safety regulations in the growing American market. Inside, Porsche fitted a new deep dish steering wheel and deeper front seats.

New to the model was the Type 616/7 Super 90 engine which was an indirect replacement for the Carrera de Luxe models. The engine was fully revised with a new intake manifold, a larger Solex 40 PII-4 carburetor and the Carrera air filters. Other detail changes included 9.0:1 pistons, stronger valve springs and a different crankshaft with 55mm main bearings.

This Porsche 356 T5 B Super 90 Coupé was first delivered on 17th January 1961 by AFN Chiswick and we believe the original colour scheme was Slate Grey with a Blue Vinyl and Pearl Grey cord interior. Factory options included the more powerful Super 90 engine and Dunlop tyres. The vendor has stated that the car is thought to have been an AFN demonstrator, but at this time there is no evidence to substantiate this claim. The original registration number was 2748ML and a letter from Porsche confirms these details.

Little is known about the early history of this example, but prior to the vendor acquiring it we know it was stored for many years. Requiring a complete restoration, this 356 would make an ideal Winter project. The bodyshell requires some repairs, but the vendor is confident that there is no evidence of accident damage. The floors look to be sound and the engine lid, bonnet, and left-hand door are all stamped with the last three digits of the chassis number. No number can be found on the right-hand door, however.

The car is described by the vendor as containing 99% of the parts required to finish the restoration. The Cardex states the original engine was a Super 90, number 801713, however the current engine is stamped 800671 but is believed to be the correct engine type. Sold, strictly as seen, with an old-style V5C, this 356 deserves to be brought back to its former glory and would look superb in its original colour of Slate Grey, or could even be the basis for an historic racing car project.