For Sale: 1961 Porsche 356B in Costa Mesa, California

1961 Porsche 356B Reutter Coupe

� VIN 117422
� Engine No. 606513
� Transmission No. 47667
� Completed August 30, 1961
� Porsche - Kardex

An extraordinary preservation-class 1961 Porsche 356B Reutter Coupe, this numbers-matching example has remained under single-family ownership for more than 49 years. It is presented in its special-order factory color combination of Royal Blue (6012) over Grey upholstery. Believed to have covered 66,256 original miles, it retains an exceptional level of factory originality, including original panels, glass, and interior; date-coded wheels; a matching engine; and a four-speed manual transmission. Factory options include an antenna, FM interference-suppressed wiper motor, two headrests, CoCo mats, a luggage rack, two loudspeakers, crested wheel caps, seatbelts, and Dunlop tires.

The original paintwork is in remarkable condition with excellent gaps and panel fit. The front and rear lids are original to the car and retain their "422" stampings in the factory locations. All glass is original, and the exterior trim retains its original markings, including the lenses and brightwork. The front trunk compartment is also all original, featuring its original date-coded fuel tank and fuel sending unit.

The interior is well preserved, with original Grey upholstery, an original VDM steering wheel, VDO instrumentation, and an original Blaupunkt AM/FM radio. The original date-coded 4.5 x 15 painted ventilated wheels are mounted with Michelin XZX tires measuring 165 SR15 (2021). The undercarriage is all original, solid, and rust-free, with a NOS muffler and Koni shocks.

Provenance includes a copy of the Porsche Kardex listing the first owner, John A Applegate, from Beutelsbach, Germany, and a copy of the 1966 title listing ownership by Mr. Martin of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. While early ownership history is limited, the 356's exceptional condition and long-term ownership clearly reflect careful preservation, limited use, and consistent care over the decades. At European Collectibles, the 356 received a full safety inspection, lighting repairs, and a complete engine tune to ensure proper operation while preserving its original character.

Mechanically powered by its numbers-matching 1600cc flat-four engine and four-speed manual transmission with a four-wheel drum braking system. Complete with an original tool kit, jack, date-coded spare wheel, original tire strap, owner's manual, Blaupunkt radio manual, maintenance instructions for Porsche bodies, original glycerin bottle, fuses, original paint touch-up pen, and recent service records, this 1961 Porsche 356B Reutter Coupe represents a rare opportunity to acquire a special-ordered Royal Blue preservation example with outstanding originality, desirable factory equipment, and remarkable long-term ownership.