In 1951, Porsche cemented its future when the lightweight 356 SL made its international motorsport debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Personally dispatched from Zuffenhausen by Ferry Porsche, the all-aluminum “aluminum can” not only finished the race but won its class, establishing Porsche as a force in endurance racing. Just four examples were built, including one that later set a 72-hour speed record at Montlhéry.
Thornley Kelham‘s Porsche 356 European SL pays tribute to this landmark model by blending its iconic design with modern engineering, performance and usability while preserving the spirit of the original. The car joins the company’s European Collection alongside the Lancia Aurelia B20GT Outlaw, Jaguar XK European GT Coupé and Roadster, and Porsche 911 European RS.
Visually faithful to the 356A, the European SL features a hand-crafted aluminum body formed using traditional techniques alongside CAD and CNC manufacturing. Built on a strengthened original chassis, it benefits from flawless panel fit, refined styling and a dry weight of just 930 kg.
Power comes from a bespoke 2.3-litre air-cooled flat-four producing either 180 bhp or 200 bhp, paired with a five-speed dogleg manual gearbox. Bespoke suspension, with optional active damping, enhances handling, while a handcrafted interior offers tailored seating, premium materials, fitted luggage and modern technology.
Only 50 examples will be produced, each requiring thousands of hours of craftsmanship. Thornley Kelham founder Simon Thornley said the project fulfils co-director Pim van de Riet’s 20-year vision of creating the ultimate 356. Van de Riet added that the goal was to build the car Porsche itself might have produced with today’s technology.
Body Hand-formed and CNC engineered aluminium alloy
Chassis Reinforced and seam-welded for rigidity and safety
Engine 2,332 cc air-cooled flat-four, based on original Porsche 356 cases
Power Touring – 180 bhp @ 6,100 rpm / Sport – 200 bhp
Transmission Five-speed dogleg manual gearbox
Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential
Suspension Bespoke geometry with early 911-inspired rear suspension, passive or active damper system
Brakes Vented disc brakes front and rear, carbon ceramic brakes optional
Weight 930 kg (dry weight)
Performance 220 bhp power-to-weight ratio
Steering Precision rack-and-pinion with optional power assistance
Interior Hand-trimmed in finest leather, bespoke seats, modern electronics
Production Strictly limited to 50 coupé models, each built to individual commission
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