Vehicle Description
1959 Porsche 356A Convertible D
• VIN 86669
• Engine No. 75063 - Matching
• Transmission No. 23812 - Matching
• Completed on July 16, 1959
• One of 943 Convertible D's produced from January to September
1959
The successor to the Speedster was the Convertible D with a taller
windshield frame, roll-up windows, and a taller soft top frame,
only built for one year. This is a five (5) owner 356 with
documentation and was in California for 58 years. Currently
finished in a striking color combination of Black over Tan leather
upholstery. Original equipment from the factory includes a Cigar
Lighter, Ashtray, Reclining Seats, Exterior Mirror, Protective
Cover, Becker 'Europa' Radio, Touch-Up Pencil, and Englebert
Tires.
In October 1959, a Navy Lieutenant known as Warren Jones placed an
order for a vehicle VIN 86669 from Mitsuwa Motors LTD in Japan, at
a cost of $3,071.95 USD. Following its importation to California,
the car was registered and driven in San Mateo for 54 years under
Mr. Jones's ownership. The vehicle was driven sparingly, with most
of its mileage being recorded between 1970 and 2003. Service
records dating back to 1971 document a linear progression of
mileage. In 2013, Mr. Jones elected to sell the vehicle, which was
subsequently traded to an East Coast collector before ending up in
the hands of Mrs. Paprocki. Under Paprocki's care, she entrusted
Automotive Restorations Inc (ARI) in Stratford, Connecticut with
the task of maintaining the 356. In March 2017, ARI performed a
complete overhaul of the braking system, installed new sway bar
bushings, and replaced transmission mounts at a cost of $5,719.75.
In 2017, Mrs. Paprocki invested over $20,000 to completely rebuild
the engine and transmission and replace any worn components. ARI
continued to service the vehicle, addressing any issues until late
2021. European Collectibles subsequently sold this 356 to its
current owner, who has worked with Eisenbud's Inc. in Denver,
Colorado, where the engine was tuned, and a new clutch was recently
installed.
This Convertible D was recently restored for the current owner
including a complete disassembly and repaint. The Black paintwork
is stunning with perfect gaps and panel fit. The upholstery is all
new and is in excellent condition featuring an original steering
wheel with a deluxe horn ring, VDO instrumentation, leather front
seats, correct door panels with pockets, oatmeal German square
weave carpets, and CoCo mats. The 4.5" x 15" wheels are painted
silver and fitted to 165 R15 radial tires with baby moon chrome
hubcaps. The undercarriage has been fully detailed and is in
exceptional condition.
Mechanically, powered by a matching driveline, the 1600cc Normal
engine produces 60 horsepower and has plenty of power with a manual
4-speed transmission (Type 716). Complete with maintenance
instructions for Porsche bodies booklet, Becker operation
instructions manual, Becker service booklet, operating instructions
for convertible top - booklet, owner's manual, and 63 years of
service history. Convertible D's have become highly collectible,
however, this particular 356 is an exceptional find due to its
impeccable documentation and meticulous restoration.