1957 Porsche 356 A Roadster

The Porsche 356A cars were introduced in 1956 after revisions to the original 356 series. Differences between the two included a curved one-piece windshield, horn grilles under the headlamps, and an inside gas gauge. There were modifications to the torsion bars, 15-inch wheels, updates to the dashboard, and better legroom.

The 1956 and 1957 356A bodies were built by Reutter. Engine options began with the 1600 'Normal' engine delivering 70 horsepower. Next was the 1600 S (for 'Super') which had a higher compression ratio and 88 horsepower. Other options included the 1500 or 1600 GS/GT Carrera unit with dual overhead cams delivering 110 or 115 horsepower, respectively.

United States importer Max Hoffman had a reputation for encouraging European automakers to build specific models to meet the US market needs. The Speedster was one of the most famous and successful of Mr. Hoffman's initiatives. The Speedster used standard Porsche engines and clothed in lightweight coachwork. Priced at $2,995, the Speedster had minimalist seats, small side curtains, and a tiny top.

This 356 A Speedster, chassis number 83069, was completed on March 15th of 1957. It is a T-1 Speedster equipped with 'beehive' taillights and many refinements found on the earliest Pre-A variants.

This Porsche was built for export and finished in Signal Red (601) over black leatherette and equipped with US-specification bumpers and sealed-beam headlights. Of the 3,994 pushrod Speedsters built between 1954 and 1958, only 494 were equipped with a high-performance 1600 Super engine, as was with this car.

The current owner purchased the car from its previous (and third) owner, living in Indiana. Shortly after being purchased, the car was treated to a two-year restoration. The work was completed in 2010. After completion, the car was shown at the Porsche Parade in St. Charles, Illinois where it achieved an impressive 232.2 point score.

The car is powered by a 1582cc overhead valve air-cooled Boxer four-cylinder engine breathing through twin Solex 40 PCIB carburetors and delivering 75 horsepower. There is a four-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

In 2012, the car was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. The car was estimated to sell for $250,000 - $300,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $245,000 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2012