1958 Porsche 356A T2 Speedster

OVERVIEW

1958 Porsche 356A T2 Speedster
VIN: 84515

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• The Most “Iconic” 356
• Matching numbers engine, transmission, and body panels
• Porsche Certificate of Authenticity
• Expertly concours-level restored
• Rudge wheels, Speedster Sport Bucket Seats
• Includes books, tool kit, jack, spare wheel/tire, boot cover, and side curtains
• Extensive photo documentation of restoration
• Classic original color combination of Silver Metallic over Black Leatherette interior
• The final year of 356 Speedster production

Created and built from the vision 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. Infallible driving characteristics of Porsche’s early roadster along with its fantastic styling drove its massive surge in popularity, rooting Porsche’s foothold in the United States. His intuition, again 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.

This 1958 Porsche 356A T2 Speedster was one of the last Speedsters to roll off the Porsche’s production line as 1958 was the final year of production. According to its Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, it was completed on January 31st, 1958, optioned in Silver Metallic paint with Black Leatherette seats. The COA also lists the engine and transmission number, 68562 and 18232 respectively, which are numbers matching. Standard equipment included a 60 horsepower 1,582cc OHV air-cooled flat four engine with dual Zenith carburetors, a 4-speed 644 manual transmission, independent front suspension with laminated torsion bars, parallel trailing arms, tubular shock absorbers, independent rear swing axles with torsion bars and tubular shock absorbers, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes.

When restorers look for vehicles ideal for a complete restoration, they often look for original tubs, rust and damage free as much as possible, matching panels, and as many original parts that can be saved to add to the authenticity. This Speedster fit that bill perfectly. Stored in a garage for some time in New Mexico, the little roadster sat undisturbed for many years. Upon being rolled out from its New Mexico hideout, the body looked exceptional with zero rust anywhere due to the arid climate. Photographs in the restoration book show its original condition upon being found. It was then decided to restore the 356 Speedster back to its original condition when it was new.

During the restoration the Speedster was completely stripped down to the bare metal. Pictures indicate that all panels were brought down to the factory metal to ensure no details were missed. Confirming suspicions, there was no rust anywhere on the body panels due to being garaged in New Mexico. The 356 then went through multiple stages that would yield a concours-level paint finish in its original Certificate of Authenticity-confirmed Silver Metallic paint color. Afterwards, the original windshield was polished and reinstalled into the car. All componentry was rebuilt and restored as necessary, including suspension, accessories, chrome details, wiring harness, gauges, and more. Using only OEM parts down to the last nut and bolt, this 356 Speedster is as close to new in 1958 that you can get.

Critical components such as the matching numbers 1.6-liter flat four engine and 4-speed manual transmission were disassembled, inventoried, and completely rebuilt to factory specifications. Photographs indicate the rebuild process of the engine and transmission including the restoration of all other components. The Speedster’s interior, Black Leatherette, was completely restored to factory specifications. Oatmeal Germany square weave carpets were installed for an authentic restoration. Photographs indicate the installation process.

After completion of the restoration, this 1958 Porsche 356A T2 Speedster presents wonderfully. With its matching numbers engine and transmission confirmed by the Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, matching body panels throughout, and expertly restored back to its original specification of 1958 per the COA, this Speedster is ready to drive another half century.

Upon arrival at Canepa, every collector vehicle for sale is put through and extensive and diligent process called the “Canepa Difference”. This includes a major and comprehensive mechanical inspection where all systems are checked and serviced as necessary. They also receive award-winning concours-level detail, including a thorough cleaning of every surface that ensures that every car is a sight to behold.