Become a premium member for just $35/year and get ad-free access!

Porsche 356

A to Z
Porsche 356 Pre-A

1951 Porsche 356 Split-Window Coupe

David vs. Goliath The story of Dr. Ferdinand Porsche is, without doubt, one of the most fascinating tales of dreams coming to reality on the scarcest of resources. Surviving WWII was in itself, a monumental challenge that the small German engineering firm somehow managed. As is well documented, Porsche contracted...
Read More
Porsche 356 Pre-A

1952 Porsche 356 ‘America Roadster’

This isn't technically a Speedster, but the Type 540 (Typ 540 K/9-1 to be very precise) - known more commonly as the America Roadster - started the idea. The American Roadster was the direct predecessor of the Speedster. U.S. importer Max Hoffman convinced Porsche it needed a lightweight convertible to compete. It only had an emergency folding roof and could keep up with larger sports cars of the era. But the production methods used to create the America Roadster’s aluminum body proved to be too expensive, and in 1952 Porsche built only 21 units before its discontinuation in 1953.
Read More
Porsche Models

1952 Porsche Type 540 America Roadster

It’s a rare and privileged opportunity for a vehicle to be inducted into the National Register of Historic Vehicles and an even rarer moment when it’s a Porsche. The Hagerty Drivers Foundation erected its mobile museum on the National Mall in Washington D.C., among numerous museums and galleries of The...
Read More
Porsche

1956 Porsche 356A Super Speedster

While the staff here at Stuttcars can never get enough of Porsche’s latest GT3s and 963 prototypes, there’s true reverence for the sports car that founded the company, the 356. It’s true beauty in its simplicity, the 356 has earned a spot in collections the world over with a reputation...
Read More
Porsche 356

1957 Porsche 356 A Speedster

Speedster, the one and only Introduced in late 1954, the Porsche 356 Speedster was a true dual-purpose sports car – one that could serve as both daily transportation and, with minor modifications, a successful weekend race car. Originally priced at $2,995 – well below Porsche’s Coupe and Cabriolet models –...
Read More
Porsche 356 A

1957 Porsche 356A 1500 GS/GT Carrera Speedster

Carrera Speedster In 1955, less than a year after the 356 Speedster model was introduced, Porsche built the first example equipped with the competition-derived four-cam Carrera engine. The result was a brilliant dual-purpose sports car, and the Carrera Speedster continued to be improved and refined throughout production. For 1957, Porsche...
Read More
Porsche 356 A

1957 Porsche 356A Carrera 1500 GT/GT

“Best of the Best” 356A Carrera Facts 1957 Porsche 356A (T1) Carrera 1500 GT/GT chassis no.100369 Exterior color: Silver Metallic/ 5706 interior color: Black ODOMETER: 2,690 miles Engine N0. 90724 Transmission No. 14902 Numbers Matching Highlights The first steel-bodied Carrera GS GT imported into the U.S. Numbers-matching engine #90824 (not...
Read More
Porsche 356

1958 Porsche 356A Brought Back To Life

Back in 2012 I found a car in Tuscon Arizona, it was a 1958 Porsche 356A T2 coupe. It was in terrible condition and was owned by a former gold miner by the name of Jonathan Marshall. The car had crates for floor panels, most of the interior was in...
Read More
Homepage Feature

1960 Porsche 356B 1600 GS Carrera GT

Background Porsche is a brand built on a sporting reputation. Street cars become more attractive when sold with the dream of taking them on track. But, for a small subset of Porsche sports cars, motorsports pedigree is not a mere dream or aspiration, but a genuine component of the car’s...
Read More
Porsche 356 B

1963 Porsche 356B Carrera 2 Sunroof Coupe

Background Introduced at the 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Porsche 356 Carrera marked the first appearance of this legendary performance car nameplate. Central to the Carrera’s spec sheet was the special race-bred engine developed since 1952. Dr. Ernst Fuhrmann was tasked with reworking the classic Porsche flat-four into a world-class...
Read More
People & Profiles

3,000 KM For A Cause Across Australia

It started with the Porsche 356 As we all know, the 356 was the first globally sold car made by Porsche, and firmly planted Stuttgart on many an enthusiast’s map. It came in a variety of body styles, including roadster, cabriolet, and coupe, and quickly became one of the favorite...
Read More
Porsche History

46: The Birth of Porsche Motorsport

Proven through competition Engineering, design, innovation; while the list is long for what describes the Porsche name, it can be distilled into one word; racing. Even before the days of cars that would bare his name, Dr. Ferdinand Porsche believed competition was the ultimate test for proving excellence in design...
Read More
Auctions

Auction: Porsches Offered At No Reserve

Some pretty interesting Porsches are currently being offered at Bring A Trailer at No Reserve: a 1964 Porsche 356C Coupe, a 1992 Porsche 911 Carrera RS Touring, and a 2014 Porsche Boxster S. 1964 Porsche 356C Coupe The 1964 Porsche 356C Coupe example originally had a Light Ivory (6404) finish...
Read More
Porsche 356

Checkout This Beautiful 1963 Porsche 356 SC Coupe

Porsche is most renowned for the 911, but it was the 356 that first established the German brand’s reputation. In a recent video, Jay Leno had the opportunity to drive a stunning 356 SC coupe, which represented a more powerful iteration of the 356 model available at the time. This...
Read More
People & Profiles

Dedicated Airhead—The Chuck Forge Story

We have partnered with Sports Car Digest to republish some of their Porsche-centric mcontent on Stuttcars for our members to enjoy. This piece was originally published on May 11, 2021 on Sports Car Digest. In many circles, the term airhead applies to someone who is silly or lacking in intelligence....
Read More
Porsche History

Dr. Porsche’s original testing grounds

Four originals: Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, his son Ferdinand, and two Porsche 550 Spyders on the Großglockner High Alpine Road – a mountain that figures prominently in Porsche family lore. What a panorama: At an altitude of 2,571 meters, the Edelweißspitze offers a magnificent view of the Großglockner, Austria’s highest peak....
Read More
Porsche 356

FOR SALE: 1955 Porsche 356 Pre-A 1500 Speedster

Bring A Trailer is currently offering a 1955 Porsche 356 Pre-A Speedster equipped with a 1,500cc air-cooled flat-four engine. In September 1954 Porsche launched a new model which was to become a legend – the Speedster. The new open-topped Porsche intended specially for the American market complied with the motto:...
Read More
Porsche 356

FOR SALE: 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster

Live now on Bring A Trailer is fantastic example of a 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster finished in Oslo Blue over red upholstery and powered by a Type 546 1.5-liter flat-four engine. In September 1954, Porsche launched a new model which was to become a legend – the Speedster. The new...
Read More
Porsche 356

FOR SALE: 1960 Porsche 356B Super 90 GT Coupe

For decades, Porsche has established itself as a renowned car manufacturer, celebrated for its adaptability and agility. It has consistently catered to the desires of racing enthusiasts and discerning clients by creating special versions of their beloved cars. During the early 1960s, the 356s were no exception to this tradition....
Read More
Porsche 356 B

For Sale: 1963 Porsche 356 B Carrera 2 GS

Issimi is currently offering for sale a 1963 Porsche 356 B Carrera 2 GS whose engine has been rebuilt by renowned 4-cam specialist Baumann. Back in the 50s, in their desire to become a world-class sports car manufacturer Porsche created their first bespoke engine. Before then, Porsches used a Volkswagen...
Read More
For Sale

FOR SALE: BaT Auctions presents “Gruppe P”

It only happens once in a lifetime; your 75th birthday. This June 8th marks Porsche’s 75th anniversary so Bring-a-Trailer auction juggernaut decided to give Porsche enthusiasts a special treat; Gruppe P.  A collection of 7 truly impressive Porsches whose auctions collectively end on June 8th, Gruppe P is likely to...
Read More
Motorsport & Racing

From a 356 to the latest 991.2 GT3 Clubsport

Rennsport Collective, Donington Hall, 20 July 2019: Porsche 996 GT1 Evo 1997 on display with numerous other Porsche classics They were all there, from a Pre-A 356 to the latest 991.2 GT3 Clubsport, by way of the most mouth-watering collection of 911s, 956 and 962s, including the indomitable 917. The...
Read More
Porsche Life

Ice Race GP at Zell am See

After a 45-year hiatus, the popular Ice Race GP at Zell am See near the picturesque Austrian town of the same name, was revived last month to great acclaim. Thanks to an abundance of snow in the region, the race track, which is laid out on the frozen runway of...
Read More
Porsche 356

In-Depth Look At The 1958 Porsche 356 Emory Special

Rod Emory and his team at Emory Motorsports are experts in restoring and customizing Porsche 356 coupes and convertibles. Although this timeless model ceased production in 1956, it remains a favorite of car collectors worldwide. One of their best creations, the “Emory Special”, offers a modern twist on this classic...
Read More
Porsche 911

Jay Leno Drives a Modernized Porsche 356

Few classic cars evoke the same sense of timeless elegance and performance as the Porsche 356. This iconic vehicle, first introduced in the late 1940s, continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors, even six decades after its debut. But what happens when you take a 60-year-old car and infuse it with...
Read More
Porsche 356

Jay Leno Talks Introduces us to the World of Porsche 356 Outlaws

The Porsche 356, a beloved classic sports car known for its timeless design and driving experience, has captivated enthusiasts for decades. Within the Porsche community, a unique subculture has developed around the “Outlaw” 356s—heavily modified versions of the car that reflect the passion and creativity of their owners. Leading the...
Read More
Porsche Life

Mark Morgan is “Driven By Dreams”

If you were lucky enough to visit Rennsport Reunion 7 in Monterey, California, then chances are you gazed at one of Mark Morgan’s illustrations without even realizing it. An illustrator based in the U.K., Mark has mixed his passion for Porsche and his artistic talents to yield some truly exciting...
Read More
Porsche History

Petersen Museum’s “We are Porsche” exhibit

In collaboration with Porsche Cars North America, the never-seen-before display – named “We are Porsche” – will celebrate the storied marque’s 75th anniversary and feature the key models and personalities behind the brand’s success. “We Are Porsche” opens to the public on April 16 at the Petersen Automotive Museum and...
Read More
Book Reviews

Porsche – The Golden Years

Porsche – The Golden Years: Leonardo Acerbi © Virtual Motorpix/Glen Smale It is always a pleasure when a top-quality book lands on my desk, so when Porsche – The Golden Years arrived at the Porsche Road & Race offices, I was especially pleased. We had the pleasure of reviewing Ferrari...
Read More
Porsche 356

Porsche 1600 Beutler Coupe (1956)

Ferry Porsche had in fact requested Swiss technicians to make a less sporty and more elegant version of the 365 B and thus the 1600 Beutler Coupè was born. This project is a 2+2 based on a Porsche 1600. Like the Porsche, the car is built on a VW platform, but includes Porsche elements such as the brakes and the engine. It was built in 5 copies before production was stopped in 1957 due to a change in commercial strategies by the German company.
Read More
Colors

Porsche 356 – Paint Colors (Exterior & Interior)

Porsche 356 Paint Color Options This post outlines all the color options for the 356 over its production life. We have official books and catalogs of all the color options for the 356 Porsche free to download. Exterior & Interior Porsche 356 Colors (1960 – 1961) Colors & Equipment Samples...
Read More
Porsche 356

Porsche 356 – Common Problems & What to Look For

Common Problems with the Porsche 356: What Every Buyer and Owner Should Know For classic car enthusiasts, the Porsche 356 stands as one of the most iconic and desirable vintage sports cars. As Porsche’s first production model, the 356 represents a blend of timeless design, spirited performance, and German engineering...
Read More
Porsche 356

Porsche 356 – Inspection & Buying Checklist

30 Point Porsche 356 Buying & Inspection Checklist Owning a Porsche 356 is a rewarding experience, but like any classic car, it comes with its challenges. Proper due diligence before purchasing can save you from unexpected surprises and costly repairs. By understanding these common problems, you’ll be better equipped to...
Read More
The Story

Porsche 356 – The Story

Ferry Porsche with 356 B T5 (produced 1960-1961)
The Porsche 356 Story Porsche engineering company had designed cars for other companies for a long time, but it was finally in 1948 that a first “Porsche” was made under the leadership of Ferdinand Anton Ernst “Ferry” Porsche, the son of Ferdinand Porsche. At that time Porsche company was located...
Read More
Porsche 356 Pre-AModel In DepthPorsche 356

Porsche 356 1100 “Pre-A” (1950 – 1954)

The series production didn't allow the use of handmade aluminium body panels, so, the cars were made of stamped steel panels. The first Stuttgart-built 356 have later been called as 356 Pre-A. These cars have either two separate windscreen glasses like the 356 built in Austria, or a sharply bent windscreen glass! Introduced in 1948, the Porsche 356 Pre-A Coupe was the first variant available for the Porsche 356. The engine started as a 1100 cc flat four that produced 40 hp. It was available as a coupe and cabriolet body style.
Read More
Porsche 356 Pre-AModel In DepthPorsche 356

Porsche 356 1300 “Pre-A” (1951 – 1955)

The Porsche 356 Pre A Coupe and Cabriolet were introduced in 1950 and was available through mid-1955. Beginning in 1950 it was offered with a 1100 cc flat four that produced 40 hp. In 1951, a bigger 1.3-litre Type 506 engine was announced. It marked the first significant move away from the original Volkswagen unit. Bored from 73.5mm to 80mm (stroke was unchanged at 64mm), displacement rose from 1086cc to 1286cc. Further enhancements included lightweight alloy cylinder barrels and nosed pistons. Output rose from 40 bhp to 44 bhp and torque increased from 51 lb-ft to 60 lb-ft.
Read More
Porsche 356 Pre-AModel In DepthPorsche 356

Porsche 356 1300 Super “Pre-A” (1954 – 1955)

In 1953, the 1300 S or "Super" was introduced, and the 1,100 cc engine was dropped. The 360 1300 Super boasts a power improvement to 60 BHP with Porsche's "Super" engine in the Porsche 356 model range. Minor visual differences were implemented such as front indicators integrated with the horn grilles and bumpers protrude from the body with over-riders. In June 1954, the plain-bearing 1300cc engine switched over to the same block as the 4cc larger roller-bearing variant.
Read More
Porsche 356 Pre-AModel In DepthPorsche 356

Porsche 356 1500 “Pre-A” (1952 – 1955)

The 1500 was Porsche’s newest engine which was quickly fitted with 40 PIBC Solex carburetors to produce 60 bhp @ 5000 rpm in 1952. These retained the Hirth roller-bearing crankshafts which gave Porsche enough clearance to enlarge their engine to 1500cc. Most cars from 1952 until the 356A of 1956 were powered by the 1500 engine but some left the factory with the smaller 1.1 and 1.3-liter engines. At the request of American importer Max Hoffman, 356s for the 1955 model year were badged as Continentals before reaching the U.S
Read More
Porsche 356 Pre-A

Porsche 356 1500 “Pre-A” Carrera (4-cam) (1955)

Beginning in 1954, a new version of the Pre A 356 was introduced that is now known as the Porsche 356 Pre-A Carrera, with a powerful engine that was available in coupe, cabriolet, and Speedster variants. Highly desirable today, the Carrera name denotes the race inspired 1500 cc four cam motor that produced an astounding 110 hp. Approximately 97 of these motors were produced sometime between 1954 and early 1955. The Carrera versions would continue in the next generation 356 as the Porsche 356 A Carrera.
Read More
Porsche 356 Pre-A

Porsche 356 1500 “Pre-A” Speedster (1954 – 1955)

An export hit, built in response to customer demand: the American importer Max Hoffman requested a Porsche costing less than 3,000 dollars for his market. The 356 Speedster was the answer, naturally with a spartan equipment specification. But the lightweight car was a big hit in the USA. It was used mainly for motor racing and soon became a regular feature of the motor sport scene.
Read More
Porsche 356 Pre-A

Porsche 356 1500 “Pre-A” Super Speedster (1955)

Generally speaking the early models or so called ‘Pre A 356′ models are more desirable than the later models. At the top of the pyramid and the most exclusive is the Carrera version which carries the legendary 4 cam ‘Fuhrman’ engine. But just below that comes the ‘Super’ speedster. The ‘super’ version had more horsepower (75 vs the standard 60) and the powerful ‘type 528 engine’ for the 1500 Super version.
Read More
Porsche 356 Pre-AModel In DepthPorsche 356

Porsche 356 1500 Super “Pre-A” (1953 – 1955)

Towards the end of 1951 Porsche introduced a larger version of the flat four engine. It was offered alongside the original 1.1 litre engine. It took a lot more effort to develop the third variation on the four cylinder theme; the '1500.' Introduced in the 356 1500 during 1952, the engine produced 55 bhp. Porsche's competition department reworked the 1500 engine with hotter cams and bigger Carburetors, boosting power to 70 bhp. In 1952 this engine found its way into a new road car; the 356 Super.
Read More
Porsche 356

Porsche 356 A 1300 (1956 – 1957)

From the outside, the 356A kept to the Porsche mantra of stepwise evolution. The new model was outwardly identical to the previous version except for the wider tires, a small rub-strip below the doors, a fully-curved front window and enamel paint replacing lacquer previously used. The 356 A came with an all-alloy air-cooled Flat 4 engine in four states of tune, with the 1300 having Type 506/2 engine with 44 bhp and 60 lb-ft.
Read More
© Stuttcars.com 2025. This site was designed and produced solely by Stuttcars.com. Stuttcars.com is not associated with Porsche AG in any manner, except for a mutual appreciation and love of the cars. All pictures and references to the Porsche name, and the car names and shapes are for reference only, and do not imply any association with Porsche AG.