Lot 118: 1956 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super

Although Ferdinand Porsche did not commence building cars until 1948, his engineering pedigree was well established with designs ranging from the awesome Auto Union V16 Grand Prix car to the Tiger tank. After World War Two, however, and fresh from serving a two year prison sentence as a result, Porsche decided in 1947 to build his own sports car. Given project number 356, by August 1948 the first production model had been completed. With aluminium fastback coachwork, pressed steel chassis and the engine behind the rear axle, manufacture began late in 1948 and the 356 debuted at the 1949 Geneva Show. Power came from a 40bhp, 1,086cc engine mated to a four-speed gearbox, with independent torsion bar/trailing arm suspension and drum brakes all round. Allied to 87mph and 0-60mph in 17 seconds was excellent fuel economy due to good aerodynamics and low weight. In 1951 - the year of the first of Porsche's many Le Mans entries, finishing 20th overall - 1,290 cc and 1,488 cc engines were introduced. The following year came an all-synchromesh gearbox and one-piece windscreen. By 1954 however, Porsche sales in the USA were suffering from the onslaught of MG, Austin Healey and Triumph, whose cars provided as much exhilaration for a lot less money. It was thus that coachbuilder Reutter penned a minimal shell based on the convertible 356 with low wrap-around windscreen, reduced frontal area and height, removable sidescreens, a lightweight hood and a more basic interior. Selling at a competitive $2,995 and available with 55/70bhp 1,488cc engine, the 100/ll0mph Speedster proved popular on road and track - weighing 1501b less than a standard 356, it was also quicker and in 1955 a Speedster won the SCCA's 1,500cc class; indeed, actor James Dean raced one. This immaculate example has been the subject of a comprehensive restoration by Porsche specialists in the United States of America, described as excellent in every respect, this totally original matching number car comes complete with its correct 1600cc 'Super' engine.This must be one of the finest examples Coys are pround to offer in recent years, finished in gleaming black coach work and tan leather interior. The car comes complete with certificate of authenticity from Porsche UK as well as UK registration documents.