For Sale at Auction: 1961 Porsche 356 in Costa Mesa, California

Chassis No. 89180
Engine No. 803014
Transmission No. 46575

The 356 B Roadster evolved from the famed Speedster and single-year Convertible D as the sporting open-topped 356. While the Speedster was spartan, the Roadsters had become nearly as civilized as the Cabriolet with a taller windshield and roll-upside windows. Initial body production of the Roadster was handled by Drauz, who also built the Convertible D before switching to D'Ieteren Freres S.A. of Brussels, Belgium. Only available from 1960 through 1962, a total of 2,900 356 Roadsters were produced, surely a small percentage of roads for production with the high highest powered Super 90 variant, making them a truly rare sight today.

The Kardex for this Roadster records a build date of 11 July 1961, finished in Ivory over a Red leatherette interior. The original owner, Robert D. Engel, a Californian serviceman based in Kaiserslautern, Germany selected the potent high-compression Super 90 engine rated at 90 horsepower. Additionally, the car was selected with an intriguing suite of options that included an ashtray, reclining seats, rear seat cushion, antenna, FM suppressor windshield wiper, cigar lighter, sun visor with makeup mirror, and two loudspeakers. The car was delivered as a U.S.-market example through the Georg Rittersbacher dealership based in Kaiserslautern. The Kardex records servicing by them while under warranty through September 1962.

The Super 90 is thought to have lived in California for much of its life, where it was previously restored some 25+ years ago. The bodywork was refinished during the restoration in its specified Ivory with a matching Red leatherette interior. The original numbers matching Super 90 engine received a top end overhaul. During restoration, a later twin grille engine lid was installed for improved engine cooling and its desirable aesthetic, yet should the new owner wish to return it to the single grille configuration, a correct engine lid is included in the sale. Most recently, in October 2024, the engine's health was verified with a compression check that revealed readings of 127-134 psi across all cylinders.

Rarely seen today, this charming Super 90 Roadster offers a compelling case to enjoy the sporting nature of the earlier 356 Speedster with the added benefit of refined luxury as well as considerably more power. This delightful 356 is furnished with its Kardex, a tool roll, owner's manual with Roadster supplement, single grille engine cover, and a selection of service invoices. Rare to find in any condition, it is nearly impossible to find a factory Super 90 Roadster retaining its all important original drivetrain. It is surely a unicorn among 356s.