Vehicle Description
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https://www.flickr.com/gp/149927902@N02/Xr990M
Extensive upgrades performed by Willhoit Restorations
Est. 130 horsepower 1925cc engine
Transaxle built and geared by Rancho Transmissions
Willhoit sport suspension upgrades
Full leather interior trimmed by Autos International, installed by
Willhoit Restoration
Factory electric sunroof, KK Sebring stainless-steel exhaust
Factory Porsche 356C disc brakes with slotted rotors
Sorted and extremely fun to drive
The building of an outlaw often reveals much about the owner's
personality. Some cars are built to be loud and flamboyant, others
are built as sleepers to remain under the radar. Regardless of the
outcome, the details on each car speak to the preferences and
priorities of the owner. This stealth black 356 went for the
latter, riding far under the radar and with its true intentions
revealed by its subtle details. Whether it's the 130hp air-cooled
engine shouting through its stainless-steel exhaust system, its
mega stance with 16" alloy wheels or the fact that it will pull
away from more powerful cars, it's the perfect fit.
This particular 356 began its life as an "outlaw" approximately 10
years ago when its current owner decided to treat it to a cosmetic
restoration. During this time, the car was stripped down to the
bare metal in order to perform metal finishing, bodywork, and
finally applying the stealth black paint finish that exists
today.
After doing the cosmetic restoration to the Porsche, the owner
decided that he wanted to go all out and make it into a hot street
"outlaw." What transpired was a complete build that addressed
everything from power to handling to its interior. The air-cooled
flat four engine increased to 1925cc by Air Power Racing, with a
stout est. 130 horsepower. A ceramic-coated KK Sebring
stainless-steel exhaust ensured a better-flowing and much
better-sounding exhaust note. The 4-speed transaxle was built by
Rancho Transmissions, shifting effortlessly and easily putting down
the newfound air-cooled power.
With the upgraded engine now pumping out more than double the stock
horsepower of a 356B, the car's underpinnings needed an upgrade and
an upgrade did they receive. Willhoit Restoration, artisans in all
things 356s, went through the Porsche and updated everything to
match the engine's new power output. Willhoit went to work,
disassembling the 356 down to its individual components. Willhoit
sport suspension with stiffer torsion bars, sway bar and shocks
were installed to sharpen the handling. 5.5x16" HRBB alloy wheels
were added with wider tires, and factory 356C disc brakes and
slotted rotors were added to complete the suspension upgrades.
While the car was disassembled for its suspension work, the entire
car's paint finish was color sanded and paint corrected, producing
a deep gloss from the black paint work. During reassembly, Willhoit
added 356 GT deco trim to the front of the car, giving a final nod
to what people might consider the factory "outlaw."
Not to be ignored, the 356's interior was also given a much-needed
upgrade. Autos International created a full leather interior that
was installed by Willhoit Restoration, adding GT seats that were
wrapped in the same green leather. A factory removeable roll bar
was fitted, a custom 14" wood VDM steering wheel was crafted by
Bruce Crawford, a short shifter kit was installed, the existing
electrical system was replaced with a 12-volt system, with the
finishing touch being GT gauges.
Upon arriving at Canepa, the "outlaw" was inspected from front to
back and given a checklist of what items needed to be addressed.
The car was given a full mechanical inspection and servicing as
needed, then sent to our detailing department where it was given a
full detailing. The black paint finish was polished using only foam
pads to bring a deep luster to the surface. The interior was
thoroughly cleaned, leaving it spotless and in excellent condition.
In addition to the mechanical service and detailing, Canepa added
some special touches by painting the alloy wheels in the custom
Titanium paint finish while recoating the stainless-steel exhaust
with black Cerakote. Lastly, Scotch-Brite was used on all of the
metal trim to produce a matte surface finish, producing a unique
contrast between the black paint and trim.
Now available for the next owner, ready to drive and enjoy, this
special "outlaw" 356 will keep you under the radar just long enough
before you stomp on the throttle and reveal its true powerful and
sinister nature.