1958 Porsche 356A Cabriolet

The best-known convertible model is the 356 'Speedster', introduced in late 1954 after Max Hoffman, the sole US importer of Porsches, advised the company that an affordable open-top version could sell well in the American market. With its low, raked windshield (which could be removed for weekend racing), buck seats, and minimal folding top, the Speedster was an instant hit, especially in Southern California. The Porsche 356 was produced from 1948 through 1965. The 356 name denotes that it was Porsche's 356th project.

The 356A Speedster features a 1.6-liter, air-cooled, overhead valve engine producing 50 horsepower and has a top speed of 90 miles per hour. Selling price was $3,670.00.

The Porsche 'Speedster' was one of the greatest sports cars of its era and one of the few foreign cars to become an American icon of the 1950s.

It was essentially a bare-bones sports model requested by Max Hoffman. Legend has it that Hoffman was always anxious to have the cheapest Porsche on display in his showrooms. His price, in 1954, was less than $3000, to which he then added all the 'extras,' which even included the V-belt, the tire pressure gauge, and the heating!

The 1958 356A Porsche Speedster shown here has lived its life in Ohio. It was purchased from Dick Weiss almost ten years ago in very rough condition and, over the subsequent three years, it was completely restored to original condition. It was returned to the 'As Delivered' color of Fjord Green Exterior and Tan Interior.

It is a 1600 Normal, and makes about 60 horsepower. While that doesn't seem like much (especially when compared to a 415 Porsche GT3), its lightweight and nimble handling make it a joy to drive. In its time, it showed its rear engine to many a more powerful car on both the street and the race track.