Classic Car Overview
Few sports cars embody the essence of pure unfiltered driving quite like the Porsche 356 Speedster. Introduced in 1954 at the urging of influential U.S. importer Max Hoffman the Speedster was Porsches answer to the growing demand for a lightweight affordable sports car tailored to the American market. Stripped of excess it featured a removable side curtain setup in place of roll-up windows a low raked windscreen that could be removed for competition use and a bare-bones interior with lightweight bucket seats. These characteristics made the Speedster an instant favorite among sports car purists and weekend racers who valued its nimble handling reliability and competitive price point. While its affordability attracted enthusiasts it was the Speedsters undeniable charm and capability that cemented its place in Porsche history. With its minimalist construction and rear-mounted air-cooled flat-four engine the Speedster was a darling of club racing circuits favored by amateur racers and professional drivers alike. Gentlemen racers who sought a versatile car for both street and track found the Speedster to be the perfect blend of performance and practicality. Names such as James Dean John von Neumann and Bruce Jennings were among the many who piloted these machines in their early careers. By 1958 the Speedster had reached its final and most refined iteration-the 356 A T2. Benefiting from continuous development the T2 introduced a revised rear suspension a more robust transaxle with improved shifting characteristics and various refinements that enhanced both performance and usability. This final-year Speedster represents the pinnacle of Porsches first-generation production sports cars blending race-proven engineering with timeless styling. However despite its cult following 1958 would also mark the Speedsters swan song. Porsche discontinued the model in favor of the more comfort-oriented Convertible D making the final-year T2 one of the most desirable and sought-after examples today. Completed in January 1958 at Porsches Zuffenhausen works this 356 A T2 Speedster chassis no. 84471 stands as a superb example of this final evolution. Originally finished in elegant Ivory over a black interior it was uniquely specified with coupe seats-an uncommon factory departure from the Speedsters traditional lightweight buckets. This subtle modification provided enhanced comfort while preserving the Speedsters unmistakable character. Discovered in 1988 this Speedster was acquired by a passionate Porsche collector with a deep appreciation for both the models aesthetics and dynamic prowess. Under his stewardship the car underwent a comprehensive bare-metal restoration. It was refinished in a striking red and several thoughtful enhancements were made to improve performance and drivability including the installation of a 1720cc Porsche 912-derived engine an upgraded transaxle and improved braking components. This highly capable Speedster proved to be a superb long-distance touring companion participating in numerous vintage motoring events including the prestigious California Mille and Japans renowned Nippon Rally. Throughout this extended ownership the car remained well-maintained and mechanically sorted ensuring it remained a road-ready icon. As the owners tastes evolved the Speedster was once again refinished-this time in black-before ultimately being acquired by its next caretaker. Today this Speedster is accompanied by a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity restoration photos showcasing its sound bare-metal foundation and a trove of maintenance records documenting its meticulous care. The sale includes a black Speedster top tonneau cover and comprehensive documentation attesting to its provenance. A set of wider wheels and tires ideal for more spirited driving will accompany the car in the sale. Lastly the Speedster has been freshly fitted with new Vredestein tires priming it for the open road once more. Sporting a high-performance 912 engine factory-fitted coupe seats and stylish bumper overriders this 356 A T2 Speedster masterfully blends historical significance with enhanced drivability. A true road-ready icon it promises to be an exhilarating rally companion while retaining the timeless allure that has made the Speedster one of Porsches most beloved models. Whether destined for spirited weekend drives shows or vintage rallies this Porsche represents an exceptional opportunity for the collector or enthusiast seeking a beautifully prepared and well-documented example of one of Stuttgarts most celebrated creations. Offers welcome trades considered. For additional details please view this listing directly on our website https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7863-1958-porsche-356a-t2-1600-speedster/
