Chassis 82743
One of just 645 Super Speedsters for the 1956 model year
Superb restoration by marque experts
Offered with copy of factory Kardex
A highly accurate example, ideal for concourses
European registered
Although Ferdinand Porsche had established his automotive design consultancy in the early 1930s, his name would not appear on a car until 1949. When it did, it graced one of the all-time great sports cars – the Porsche 356. A cabriolet followed hot on the heels of the original 356 coupé and then in 1952 a trial batch of 15 roadsters was constructed at the behest of US importer Max Hoffman, who had persuaded Porsche of the potential for a ‘cut-price’ entry-level model. The roadsters’ successful reception in the USA led to the introduction of the Speedster model in 1954.
Instantly recognisable by virtue of its low, wraparound – as opposed to V-shaped – windscreen, smaller and entirely retractable hood, lower door waistline, horizontal trim strip at the level of the door handles, and twin bucket seats – all of which served to emphasise its sporting image – the Speedster was intended to compete with the cheaper British sports cars. The Speedster was powered initially by the 1.5-litre version of Porsche’s horizontally opposed four, gaining the new 1.6-litre, 60bhp engine with the introduction of the improved 356A for 1955. Priced at $2,995, the Speedster was the lightest of the 356s, enjoying a commensurate performance boost that meant over 100mph was possible. Allied to its already renowned handling characteristics, this meant that the Speedster was an instant success in the burgeoning American sports car racing scene.
The 356 Speedster A 1600 ‘Super’ we are offering here is chassis 82743, a very desirable example and one of just 645 Super Speedsters units supplied by the factory in 1956. Altought finished in white with red interior, it was decided during the restoration to change the interior color to grey, more suitable to the owner’s tastes. The outside colour is however “as delivered” back in 1956.
Supplied by official importer Hoffman in New York, the early whereabouts of the car are unknown. It was purchased several years ago by its current European owner as a restoration project directly from America. The car was completely taken apart down to every single piece and went through a no-expenses spared restoration by marque specialists. The restoration has been performed to exacting standards and with minimal mileage ever since, 82743 is today breathtaking throughout.
Offered with factory Kardex and extensive restoration dossier, this fine and special example of the Speedster would be a great addition to any Porsche collection.
European registered.
