- Beautiful and desirable late T1 model
- Period enhanced drivetrain
- Highly original example with matching panels!
- Comes with Reutter Certificate
- Extremely rare original 4,5” Rudge Wheels
Completed at the Zuffenhausen-based Porsche Works in 1957, this spectacular Speedster was built as one of the final T1 cars of the model year. Finished in Silver metallic exterior over a red leatherette interior, the car was - as most Speedster were - destined for the North American market, where Max Hoffman's famous Porsche agency served as importer.
The ultimate US destination for this Porsche is unfortunately unknown, as the car was registered as a showroom example. Its most recent custodian, a German enthusiast with a remarkable collection, and has now decided to slim down his stable.
The Speedster benefits from an older, high-quality restoration, which remains in excellent condition today. The work was carried out with great attention to authenticity: original components were retained and carefully restored rather than replaced, while new old stock Porsche parts were sourced where required. The interior features a period Nardi wood-rimmed steering wheel, a Blaupunkt radio, and an auxiliary oil pressure gauge. The VDO instruments were restored, and the brightwork was refinished by specialists. Finished in the classic color scheme of Silver Metallic over Weinrot (dark wine red), the restoration still presents beautifully with only light signs of use.
Mechanically, the car has been thoughtfully upgraded with a period-correct engine paired with the desirable 741 gearbox, delivering enhanced performance and drivability while remaining in the spirit of the era. These sympathetic upgrades ensure the Speedster is not only visually authentic but also a rewarding car to drive. Importantly, factory stampings on the front hood, engine lid, and both doors confirm that the body panels are original to the car — a remarkable survival more than 65 years later. Even the fuel tank carries the original stamps and thus remains original!
The Speedster is offered with its Reutter Certificate, a copy of the factory Kardex build sheet, jack, full tonneau cover, and the correct Rudge copper hammer. The car starts easily, runs smoothly, and delivers a solid, confidence-inspiring drive. The rare 4.5x15J chrome Rudge wheels (date-stamped and original) are shod with fresh 2021 Vredestein Sprint Classic tyres in 165R15. The odometer shows 1,577 kilometers, believed to be since restoration, and the car has just been serviced, with the previous service carried out in July 2024.
This 356 Speedster would be welcomed at concours, rallies, or any classic event, offering its next owner the combination of originality, sympathetic upgrades, and exceptional rarity. With its original panels, high-quality restoration, sought-after T1 specification, and period-correct enhanced drivetrain, this is a Speedster that truly ticks every box for the enthusiast seeking a confidence-inspiring car that is as rewarding to drive as it is to admire.
