1963 Porsche 356

Porsche's first production automobile would be a ground-breaking design that would set the stage for Porsche's name to be listed among the greatest sportscar manufacturers in history.

It is difficult to get it right in the first try. Porsche would do just that with its 356. The first prototype of the 356 would be completed in 1948. Advanced in all respects, from its chassis to its body, the new car would help to set a standard for years to come.

As with nearly every Porsche built to date, the design would be proven on the track almost immediately. Taking part in a race in Innsbruck, the car would win its class in its very first attempt.

Throughout its long production run, the 356 would undergo a number of evolutions. The 356 would be produced from late-1948 until the mid-1950s. The 356A would then take over until the end of the 1950s when the B version would be introduced. The B example continued until 1963 when the 356C saw the model line to its conclusion in 1965 and 1966.

Even within the production models there would be different iterations. Chassis 124097 would draw from Porsche's vast sportscar racing experience. Utilizing the Type 547 2.0-liter engine with its twin ignition, twin carburetors and four-cam actuation, the Carrera 2 was capable of producing an unheard-of 152hp.

Produced with four-wheel disc brakes and other important chassis improvements, the Carrera 2 would become one of the most popular examples of the heralded 356. The foundation was firm, so firm it would serve as the building blocks for the 904GTS about to make its appearance.

Carrying a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, 124097 remains incredibly authentic, even after more than fifty years. Bearing its original Signal Red livery and tan leather interior, the car is a virtual step back in time. But this would be just the beginning of this remarkable example.

Including a Blaupunkt radio, three-point safety belts, chrome wheels and even a fire extinguisher, it is clear this was a very special Carrera 2 Coupe. Originally delivered to Autohaus-Gramling in Karlsruhe in April 1963, the car's history would be a little unknown for about 25 years.

Then, in 1989, the Porsche would appear in the United States in the hands of Tom Vernen of Knox, Pennsylvania. Vernen would keep the Porsche near and dear for some 15 years before selling it to Robert Murch of Paradise Valley, Arizona.

Even after decades of use, the car remained highly original. And, this would inspire Murch to have the car restored, but just cosmetically. This task would be undertaken in 2009 by Liberty Motorsports in Costa Mesa, California.

Acquired by its current owner in 2011, the Carrera 2 retained its authentic tool kit, jack, Type 587 engine, gauges, wood-trimmed steering wheel and tan leather upholstery, even the Signal Red livery remains as bright as ever.

Bearing a copy of Kardex and its Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, 124097 would be offered for sale as part of Gooding & Company's Arizona 2015 auction. Pre-auction estimates reflected the quality of the automobile with the expected fetching price to range from between $550,000 and $650,000. Sure enough, when the bidding came to an end, the final sale price would be a handsome $643,500.

By Jeremy McMullen