Chassis No. 151412

In the spring of 1950, Porsche insiders believed they might sell as many as 500 examples of their new 356, with the head of Porsche Press Department Richard von Frankenberg confidently predicting “certainly not more than 500 cars in the first two years.” Reality quickly eclipsed expectations: by March 1951 the 500th German-built 356 was completed, and by 1956 more than 10,000 had left Stuttgart, cementing Porsche's role in the West German Economic Miracle.

Introduced for the 1956 model year, the 356 A marked a decisive break from the Stuttgart brand's Volkswagen-based origins, with Porsche-engineered components refined through extensive road and racing experience. By 1959, the final year of 356 A production, Porsche offered a mature suite of models consisting of the all-weather Coupe, pared-down Convertible D, and luxurious Convertible—light, precise, and engineered with the same methodical rigor prized by the scientists, engineers, and professionals who first embraced the marque.

According to a digital copy of its Kardex warranty card, this 1959 Porsche 356 A 1600 Cabriolet, chassis number 151412 completed production on 1 December 1958. It left Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen in Ivory, over a Black interior with a Black soft top optioned with U.S.-market bumpers and sealed beam headlights. Furthermore, its Kardex notes that it was first delivered through Max Hoffman's distributor to George D. Pearson of Bakersfield, California.

After nearly 70 years on the road, this 356 A Cabriolet retains a high degree of correctness due to a full and comprehensive restoration by Dutch Porsche specialist Maurice Felsborg. Felsborg retained the 356's original specified Ivory finish and Black interior (now leather) with Charcoal square-weave carpeting. Both its period-correct 1,600-cc Super engine that dates from a 1958 model, and its four-speed transmission were rebuilt by. The 75-horsepower Super engine provides a welcome 15 horsepower bump over its originally fitted Normal unit.

Numerous books dedicated to the model reveal the hand-built nature of the 1950s Porsche, a product of the nose-to-the-grindstone work ethic that helped return Germany to economic prosperity. Hand-leaded panel gaps, race-engineered components, and tight unibody construction all contribute to the jewel-like quality that makes the 356 difficult to correctly restore. Combining expert restoration, final-year development, and a highly desirable open-top configuration, this 1959 Porsche 356 A 1600 Cabriolet offers its next steward a beautifully made and timeless Porsche experience.

PREVIEW DETAILS:
This lot will be available for viewing at Bicester Heritage. Please contact a Broad Arrow specialist to arrange an appointment.

SALE LOCATION:
United Kingdom

BUYER'S PREMIUM:
10% + VAT on the Hammer Price

TITLE/REGISTRATION DOCUMENTS:
Bill of Sale

ADDITIONAL NOTES:
N/A

POST-AUCTION REMOVAL AND STORAGE:
Following receipt of payment, collection can be arranged by appointment only from Bicester, United Kingdom with 24 hours' notice.