Location: Santa Monica, California

$170,500 USD | Sold

• Matching-numbers engine
• Brilliantly restored in original Ruby Red
• Late production removable chrome windshield B

Even in their best years, production of the true open 356s—the Roadster, D, and Speedster—was a matter of a few cars per day. As the Porsche 356 Registry points out, by the sixties, America’s love of roofless driving was waning, to the point that, after 1966, Porsche didn’t offer a convertible at all. In 1960, they were still available, but only 1,528 Roadsters were built out of more than 7,500 total 356s.

The Drauz-built Roadster was the third and final iteration of a lineage of open Porsche 356s, which began with the 1954 Speedster and 1958 Convertible D. Like the D, the Roadster enjoyed improved daily usability over the stripped down and track-oriented Speedster, as it had roll-up windows and a real top. Unlike the D, it got the flat front of the new T-5 chassis B model, along with all the other improvements of the new series, with the most notable being the outstanding Alfin brakes. With little practice, the 356B is immediately recognizable, thanks to the now-classic look of the rounded front hood with a large chromed handle.

According to the included Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, chassis 88222 was completed late in the production run on July 14, 1960, and the chassis, engine, and transmission numbers all conform to the CoA. Unlike so many cars, it was never subjected to ill-considered performance modifications nor raced. Prior to 2013, it was still roadworthy and in complete and rust-free condition. Then, a proper and professional restoration by Porsche specialists began, with a bare metal repaint in the correct Ruby Red, which was among the most popular of all 356 colors.

It is matched by a Light Brown interior, which is included on the seats and headrests, and tan and black coco floor mats, which add a whimsical and period-correct accent to the car. A Blaupunkt AM/FM radio is found in the 356’s optional underdash shroud. Drivers will appreciate gripping the wood-rimmed steering wheel and the usability of the fog lamps and a driver’s side outside mirror. This interior is matched by the soft top and boot, completing the car’s touring appeal. It is substantially dressed up with a set of reproduction knockoff wheels, which can be removed through the utilization of the included tool kit.

The car sits upon high-speed-rated blackwall radials, which highlight its mission to be a show-quality driver, but for authenticity, or perhaps show use, a set of correct steel wheels are also included with the car.

The 1960 models were a landmark in the history of the 356 Porsche, and for many, the combination of a new face with hints of the past makes this the perfect 356.

https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/ca17/lots/r0145-1960-porsche-356-b-1600-roadster-by-drauz/