Designed by founder Ferdinand Porsche, the 356 quickly grew into a model known for its aerodynamics, handling, and build quality, especially after it logged a class win at the 1951 Le Mans. The 356 is a true classic that’s hard to ignore, and an original example like this one on sale at RM Sotheby’s would be an interesting buy.
One Of 429 Porsche 356 A 1600 Cabriolets In 1956
This certain model is a 1956 Porsche 356 A 1600 Cabriolet that had been hiding from the world until 2021. According to the listing at RM Sotheby’s, this model boasts of a matching-numbers chassis, with the original engine supplied as a spare. It is one of 429 units of 1956 Porsche 356 A 1600 Reutter-built Cabriolets.
The Porsche 356 A takes pride as the first major update to the 356, featuring a new single piece, curved, panoramic windscreen. While it only offers around 60 bhp of max output, the 356 A Cabriolet can go as fast as 100 mph on the highways. The thrill of open-air driving paired with a luxurious interior, roll-up door windows, and a padded convertible top are a few of the highlights of this model.
Driven Then Stored In A Barn For 50 Years
This 1956 Porsche 356 A 1600 Cabriolet rolled off the production line in November 1956. It found its new owner through Skandinavisk Motor Company of Denmark, and received a title on March 30, 1957. According to its Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, the car had its original transmission replaced under factory warranty in February 1958. A certain Esben A. Ubbesen then acquired this 356 A 1600 Cabriolet on June 11, 1959, as a gift to his wife.
Following the purchase, Ubbesen and his family drove their 356 A 1600 Cabriolet throughout the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Due to a leaking oil pan, he had the car’s original 1.6-liter Porsche engine replaced with a more user-friendly Volkswagen engine. This mill remains inside the car’s engine bay until now. In the early 1970s, Ubbessen stored the car away for good, although he regularly maintained the car by spraying oil.
Up For Sale At RM Sotheby’s
In 2021, Ubbesen decided to let go of his Porsche 356 A 1600 Cabriolet, which finally had its first liberation after 50 years of storage in a Danish barn. The buyer opted to retain the car in as-found condition, and is now selling the car via an RM Sotheby’s Monaco auction on May 12. By then, its would-be-buyer could restore the car, or just preserve it.
Source: RM Sotheby’s