The 356 B Roadster evolved from the famed Speedster and single-year
Convertible D as the newest sporting open-topped 356. While the
Speedster was spartan, the Roadsters had become nearly as civilized
as the Cabriolet while a more raked windshield gave the car a more
sporting appearance, and roll-up side windows aided usability.
Initial body production of the Roadster was handled by Drauz, who
also built the 356 A-based Convertible D. Only available from 1960
through 1962, 356 B T-5 and T-6 Roadsters were produced in smaller
quantities than the Coupes and Cabriolets with high quality
examples like this are a truly rare sight today!
A copy of this spectacular 1960 Porsche 356 B T-5 1600 Roadster's
Kardex warranty card reveals that it was originally finished in
Ivory over a Red-upholstered interior destined for the U.S. market
via Porsche Car Import Inc. of Northbrook, Illinois. In time, the
matching-numbers Roadster received a complete restoration, with
brightwork restored by exterior trim guru Victor Miles, in the
period-correct shade of non-metallic Black over an interior in red
leather. During the restoration, it is noted that the car retained
numerous chassis number-stamped panels that included both doors,
hood, and engine lid. By 2006, the Roadster was in the hands of
Robert McDowell after trading Ferrari Dino 08510-such was the
quality of the restoration! Later the 356 moved to the Northeast
United States where service work was handled by The Boston
Sportscar Company.
Prior to acquisition by its most recent private owner, 356 Roadster
chassis number 86936 received an inspection and service from highly
knowledgeable hands at Road Scholars of Durham, North Carolina.
Since 2021, the striking Black over Red Roadster has formed part of
a prominent San Diego-based collection, assembled by a lifelong car
enthusiast, always seeking to add the very best examples to his
collection. The latest addition to the Roadster during the
consignor's devoted custodianship is among the most desirable
period factory options: chrome Rudge knock-off wheels. It must be
said that the visual appeal of the sleek Roadster has only been
heightened by this rare original sporting accessory-with all five
wheels, including the spare, noted to be date stamped from the
period-added at considerable expense. In addition, the very
racy-looking Roadster is offered with a set of five steel wheels
and hubs should its next caretaker wish to revert to the original
as-built specification. Furthermore, the car is offered with a
history file containing service paperwork, a copy of its Kardex, a
Driver's Manual and toolkit.
Restored to a very high level in exceptional colors with a highly
desirable specification, equipped with the most desirable wheel
option for any German sports car at the time and trimmed with
period correct Hella fog lights out front, this matching-numbers
Roadster is perhaps the ideal example for a new caretaker seeking
to experience open-air Porsche motoring at its very best. With
undeniable appeal, it stands as a true "special-occasion" sports
car-few experiences rival the joy of a 356 Roadster with the top
down on a sunny day.
Vehicle Details
1960 Porsche 356
Listing ID:CC-2008913
Price:Auction Vehicle
Location:Las Vegas, Nevada
Year:1960
Make:Porsche
Model:356
Odometer:72403
Stock Number:LV25Lot_156
VIN:86936
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