This 1954 Porsche 356 Pre-A 1500 Coupe is a rare, evocative classic that wears its history with pride. Restored with meticulous care to preserve period-correct detail, the car received a full engine, body and paint restoration completed in 2020 at a total cost of €220,000, yet several original components — notably the chrome work and the seats — were deliberately left unrestored to retain the patina and character of a true family car.
Provenance and family story
The car’s ownership story is woven through two generations. With it's first owner, the 356 suffered a crash at Zandvoort that damaged the roof. In 1961, Jan bought the car from him for a few hundred guilders mainly to harvest a troublesome engine for use in his own 356. The damaged car was stored in that same loft until a sympathetic, comprehensive restoration brought it back to life decades later. His son, Jan Okke, learned mechanics at his father’s elbow: their household was one of tools, parts and practical knowledge. The father was a respected KLM flight mechanic whose workshop loft doubled as a parts repository — pistons, cylinders and camshafts all carefully boxed, labeled and hung under the roof.
Authenticity and matching numbers
This Pre-A is a true matching-numbers example: engine, chassis, gearbox and body panels are all original to the car, with supporting Kardex documentation. That level of provenance is exceptionally rare and highly prized by collectors.
Model detail and finish
This is the distinctive “Knickscheibe” Pre-A model — an early and desirable version of the 356 distinguished by its curved front windscreen design. The restoration returned the coupe to its original factory color, Perlgrau (Code 5407), beautifully contrasted by a red faux leather interior. The combination is authentic, elegant and immediately recognizable.
Rarity, recognition and registration
The car has been featured in several classic car magazines and is believed to be the oldest Porsche originally delivered in the Netherlands. It still carries its original first Dutch registration plate, an increasingly rare compliment to its documented history. Only 3 owners are recorded since new, reinforcing the continuity of care and story.
Competition eligibility and ownership support
This 1954 Porsche is Mille Miglia 2026 eligible, an exciting prospect for any owner who dreams of participating in historic rally events. Marreyt Classic Cars specialise in taking owners into the Mille Miglia world and provide full A-to-Z support, guiding entrants through logistics, preparation and event participation so the car can be enjoyed to its fullest.
This 356 Pre-A 1500 Coupe is more than a beautifully restored example; it is a living piece of Dutch Porsche history with genuine family provenance, exceptional matching documentation and the practical potential to campaign in major historic events. For a collector who values authenticity, narrative and usability, this coupe offers an extraordinary combination of heart and heritage.
