1957 Porsche 356 A Speedster

The Porsche 356 Speedster was a dual-purpose sports car that could serve as daily transportation and as a weekend race car. Introduced in late 1954, the Speedster was given an attractive price of $2,995, falling well below Porsche's cabriolet and coupe models. Non-essential amenities were removed, contributing to its low price and low weight, and distinct styling elements gave it a unique appearance. It had a cut-down windscreen, a minimal folding soft top, side curtains, and bucket seats.

The Speedster quickly found favor with sports car enthusiasts, particularly in California, where top-down motoring is possible almost every day of the year.

This particular 356 A Speedster was completed on April 9, 1957. When it left the factory, it wore a white paint scheme with black vinyl upholstery and was equipped with U.S.-specification headlights and bumpers. It was delivered new to official dealer AMAG of Schinznach-Bad, Switzerland, and sold new to John S. Kozina, an American military serviceman stationed in Europe.

It was in California by the mid-1960s and owned by Roger Hanke. By this point in history, it wore a silver paint scheme. While in Mr. Hanke's care, the car was given a roll bar and Goodyear racing tires. It was used to contest local autocross events from the early 1970s through 1973. The Porsche was then retired from use and the engine was disassembled in anticipation of a rebuild. This work never commenced.

This Porsche retains all the original, major engine components and, although no gearbox number is recorded, the car is equipped with a correct type 644 unit (no. 13909) with proper BBAB Speedster gearing.

This Speedster has remained in storage for the past five decades and is currently in as-found condition.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2023