Without Reserve
Chassis: 86277
Engine: 73900
Saleroom Addendum
Please note that after further research, this Porsche appears to be a 356 A Convertible D, and not a 356 A Super Convertible D as stated in the published catalogue and as previously advertised. The vehicle is equipped with its original, matching-numbers engine, but it appears to be a standard 1600 engine and not a 1600 Super. The engine's technical specification is therefore 60 BHP at 4,500 RPM, not 75 BHP at 5,500 RPM as previously stated. Please contact a Gooding & Company specialist by emailing specialist@goodingco.com if you require more information regarding this lot.
Please note that a new title has recently been processed and should be available shortly following the auction.
One-Year-Only Model; Just 1,331 Convertible Ds Built
Originally Finished in Ivory over Red Leatherette
Retains Matching-Numbers 1600 Super Engine per Kardex
Recently Discovered in a New England Barn and Presented as Found
A Rare and Desirable Open 356 A Ideal for Restoration
1,582 CC OHV Air-Cooled Flat 4-Cylinder Engine
Twin Zenith 32 NDIX Carburetors
75 BHP at 5,500 RPM
4-Speed Manual Transaxle
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
4-Wheel Independent Suspension with Torsion Bars and Tubular Shock Absorbers
The Convertible D was manufactured for the 1959 model year only. Offering similar styling to the more minimalist and inexpensive Speedster model, the Convertible D was distinguished by additional creature comforts such as a taller windshield, wind-up windows, coupe-style seats, interior door panels with pockets, and a more practical folding soft top with enlarged rear window. Due to lack of capacity at Reutter, Porsche contracted Karosseriewerke Drauz to craft the bodies, hence the “D” in the model’s name. Only 1,331 examples were built between August 1958 and September 1959. According to a copy of the Porsche Kardex, this Convertible D was completed by the factory on April 20, 1959, and finished in Ivory over a red leatherette interior. Special equipment listed included the high-performance 1600 Super engine, US-specification bumpers, reclining seats, driver and passenger seat belts, Coco floor mats, cigarette lighter, Michelin tires, and touch-up paint. Supplied to Joseph C. May Jr. of Stamford, Texas, through Autohaus Kraus in Nürnberg, Germany, this Convertible D was serviced twice before its export to the US.
Presented in loosely assembled “barn find” condition, this Convertible D appears in generally solid condition but, most importantly, retains the majority of its original components including its matching-numbers type 616/2 Super engine. Presented as found and in need of a comprehensive restoration, this rare Convertible D should make a most rewarding project for the Porsche enthusiast.
*Please note that this vehicle has been in long-term static storage and may not be currently operational. It will require mechanical attention prior to road use.
