The 1957 Porsche 356 A T1 is a vintage gem. Its iconic curvaceous body and air-cooled flat-four engine embody Porsche's heritage. With refined design and spirited performance, this classic remains a symbol of driving pleasure, setting the foundation for Porsche's legacy as a premier sports car manufacturer.
Julien's Perspective
SOME THOUGHTS ON THIS MODEL
Thrilled to have this 356 back for sale after 7 years. Interestingly this exceptionally pretty RHD 356 was not supplied by AFN here in the UK but via Raffay of Hamburg, as its owner was a serving member of the British Arms Forces in Germany.
The factory Kardex states that its guarantee commenced on 31st May 1957 and was ordered as a standard 60HP Coupe.
It has the added features of both a super rare factory fitted sunroof and integral driving lights.....I've never come across another 356 with these factory options in place since new and they certainly enhance the cars look and its driving environment and enjoyement.
Interestingly, neither of these appear on the Kardex which is not unusual as these were manually typed in period and often not accurate. That said, we have official Porsche correspondence which clearly states they were optioned from new and the parts themselves have been scrutinised on many occasions by those in the know and deemed correct.
Porsche build cycles were slightly irregular during this period....this car's chassis number indicates it's a 1958 model year but it was clearly built in 1957; the Porsche world refer to this production period as T1 1/2. Other pointers to this period are that its door handles are the early type but with later buttons, its door catch is high mounted (same as T1) but the car has tear-drop lights......all in all, a very interesting example.
Originally entrusted to Cliff Gregory who undertook a body restoration, the car was purchased as a painted restored shell before finally going to Roger Bray who completed the project in 2007.
The car has covered a little over 4000 miles since, with the majority of these being clocked whilst touring the Italian lakes and weekend trips away here in Blighty! I drove it back to Redhill last week and had forgotten just how good it is. Upgraded to a 1.6 C Type engine but otherwise remaining standard, its spirited performance easily allows you to keep pace with modern traffic.
Over the last 7 years its formed part of a wonderful 12 car private collection, happily I've been fortunate to be involved with its curation, and certainly each of the cars are of a similar exemplarily standard to this lovely and rare 356.
There's a substantial written history file containing paper work from its restoration to present day, a correct red Porsche wallet including a original 'Drivers Manual', a Porsche COA and various other reference books including a very rare & original printed 1956 Porsche 1957 Service Manual....quite a tome, in perfect condition, difficult to find and hugely expensive when you do!
