1962 Porsche 356B 'Super 90' Cabriolet

The 356 is acknowledged as Porsche's first production car and was a lightweight and nimble handling rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive, two-door sports car available in hardtop, coupé, and open configurations. The model was created by Ferdinand "Ferry" Porsche (son of Dr.Ing.Ferdinand Porsche, founder of the company), based on an original design by Porsche employee Erwin Komenda, and its mechanicals (including engine, suspension, and chassis) were derived from the Volkswagen Beetle.

Design innovations continued during the years of manufacture and Porsche re-engineered and refined the car with a focus on performance. By the late '50s, many fewer parts were shared between Volkswagen and Porsche and increasing success with its racing and road cars brought Porsche orders for over 10,000 units in 1964, and by the time 356 production ended in 1965 approximately 76,000 had been produced. Today, the Porsche 356 is a highly regarded collector's car with the Super 90 and 'S' engines amongst the most desirable, partially due to the type's much enjoyed success in rallying, the 24 hours of Le Mans, the 1000 km Buenos Aires, the Mille Miglia, the Targa Florio, and the Carrera Panamericana.

We are pleased to offer this particular right-hand drive Porsche 356B Super 90 Cabriolet which was manufactured in August 1961, meaning it utilised the revised 1962 model year "T6' body style, easily recognisable by the twin grilles on the engine lid. Delivered new to a Mr.P.Golding of the Kings Road, London, chassis #155621 was owned by him until 1994 when it was sold to its next owner a Mr.K.Klimek. The comprehensive file that accompanies the car shows that respected Porsche 356 specialist Barry Curtis was commissioned to replace the original engine with a rebuilt correct-specification unit in 2001. At this time, other work was undertaken which included a brake overhaul and a new clutch. During Mr Klimek's tenure, a move to New Zealand meant his Aston Martin and this cherished 356 were shipped overseas before returning back to UK shores in 2013. Although the car has never been fully restored, it did benefit from a bare-metal repaint in Silver Blue Metallic in 2013, along with some fresh chrome and a new set of wheels.

Supplied with a UK V5c, a correct spare wheel, a spare set of keys, a driver's manual, and a leather-bound history file, this rare UK right-hand drive car is now showing 83,250 on the odometer. With 356 Speedsters now commanding premium prices, this equally elegant and rare open-top Porsche looks like an attractive proposition.