The Porsche 356B represents the core of Porsche’s early philosophy: light weight, mechanical simplicity, and driver engagement over outright power. The example reviewed here is the base model, identified by the badge on the rear decklid, positioned below the 356B S and the range-topping Super 90.
While the Super 90 produced nearly 90 horsepower, the base model relies on roughly 60 horsepower from its 1.6-liter air-cooled flat-four. On paper, those numbers seem modest, but they’re secondary to the car’s balance, feedback, and character on the road. Across all body styles, the Porsche 356—particularly the more polished 356B built from September 1959 through July 1963—stands as a clear reflection of Porsche’s methodical engineering and continuous refinement.
A video from Tire Kickers by Ross Cameron on YouTube, showcases a 1962 Porsche 356B in action. During the drive, the narrator points out unexpected highlights, from the car’s roomier-than-expected cabin to its composed, fluid handling. The feature underscores the model’s historical significance while reinforcing a simple truth: the enduring appeal of the 356 lies in the pure enjoyment it delivers behind the wheel.
Source: Tire Kickers by Ross Cameron
