1960 Porsche 356B Coupe – Single Owner for 40 years

The 356 was Porsche’s first production sports car and the vehicle that introduced the Porsche name to the world. Built between 1948 and 1965, the 356 was split into 4 different variations over its 17 year run. Starting with simply the 356 – also known as a “Pre-A,” it was followed up by the 356 A, 356 B and 356 C – all with different sub-variations within those generations. Enthusiasts all have their preference for which 356 was the best, with some liking the lightweight, de-contented Pre-A cars, while others prefer the later B or Cs, for their added refinement and additional power.

This 1960 356 is from the “B” series, and is finished in a striking color combination of silver over a blue interior. Under the care of a single owner for the last 40 years, this car is a great driver and benefits from servicing at Dobson Stuttgart over the last handful of years. As a 356 B, the design was altered with a slightly flatter front end design, revised bumpers, and new taillights along with a host of other differences, aimed at meeting American regulations.

The interior is beautifully simple, with a pair of blue bucket seats up front and two seats in the rear. The dash pad is the same blue as the seats, while the dash matches the car’s exterior. Slide behind the large 3-spoke steering wheel and you are met by an attractive set of green-on-black gauges that are reminiscent of early 911 dials with a central tachometer, speedometer to the right and combination fuel level and oil temperature gauge to the left. An AM/FM stereo is fitted in-dash and sound comes from a set of upgraded Sony speakers placed near the front foot wells.

Powering this 356 is a 1.6-liter air cooled flat 4. According to the owner, it was rebuilt in about 2010 by Morris Brothers in Salt Lake City. It produces approximately 60 horsepower and 81 lb-ft of torque. Breathing through a pair of Zenith downdraft carburetors, this engine runs and drives wonderfully and provides plenty of power to cruise at the speed of modern traffic. Power is then sent through a 4-speed manual transaxle to the rear wheels. Under the car, a fresh set of Koni shock absorbers provide a sporting ride that isn’t punishing on bumpy roads.

The 356 is a crucial piece of Porsche history and remains one of the nicest driving and most solidly built classic cars out there. This example is a great driver that runs wonderfully and would make the perfect classic for rallies and touring.

Key Features

• 1.6-liter Air-Cooled Flat-4
  • 60 Horsepower
  • 81 Lb-Ft of Torque
  • Dual Zenith Downdraft Carburetors
• 40 Year Single Ownership
• Stunning Silver/Blue Color Combination
• Fresh Koni Shock Absorbers
• Recent Servicing from Dobson Stuttgart