OVERVIEW
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Black Exterior Finish, Red Interior – From New!
Matching Numbers
Rudge Wheels
Spare, Tools, Knock-off Hammer, Owner’s Manual
Ground Up Restoration
1 of 552 Produced in 1958 – Last Year of the Speedster Push-Rod Engine Production
First in Class, Carmel-By-The-Sea Concours 2019
Created and built on the vision by one of America’s most prolific importers Max Hoffman, the
Porsche 356 Speedster filled a void that the clever automotive industrialist thought was lacking:
a lightweight, few frills, open top sports car. His intuition, like many other times, proved to be correct and the Speedster was a resounding success. Finding iconic owners such as Steve McQueen saw the Speedster’s popularity shoot into the stratosphere, and today these low-slung 356s are some of the most sought-after variants built by Porsche.
The 356 Speedster holds significant historical importance in the evolution of sports car design and automotive culture. At its core, the Speedster represented a departure from conventional luxury and performance cars of its time. Conceived as a stripped down, more affordable variant of the Porsche 356, it embodied a purist approach to driving pleasure. Introduced in the post-war era, the 356 Speedster catered to a growing demand for lightweight, nimble sports cars that emphasized agility and handling over sheer horsepower. Its minimalist design, characterized by a low, raked windshield, and removable top, reflected this philosophy. This simplicity not only reduced weight, but also enhanced the driving experience, allowing automotive enthusiasts to feel more connected to the road.
Moreover, the 1958 Speedster played a pivotal role in popularizing the Porsche brand here in the United States. With its sleek styling and engaging driving dynamics, it captivated a new generation of enthusiasts. Its success laid the groundwork for Porsche’s subsequent achievements in motorsport and its enduring reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance sports cars.
This 356 received a ground up restoration. Every element of the Speedster was addressed during the restoration process, with the intention that the car be as meticulous mechanically as it would be cosmetically flawless, knowing that the stunning color combination of a beautiful black over red interior would make for the perfect Best of Show contender. Every component of the car was disassembled, assessed, and restored to perfection.
1958 was the last year of 356 Speedster push-rod production, with an estimated 552 produced. Presented here is an excellent opportunity to be the next caretaker of a concours-level, expertly restored Speedster.
Upon arrival at Canepa, every collector car for sale is put through an extensive and diligent process called the “Canepa Difference.” This includes a major and comprehensive mechanical inspection where all systems are checked, serviced, and restored as needed. They also receive award-winning concours-level detailing, including a thorough cleaning of each and every surface.
