1961 Porsche 356

1961 Porsche 356B Super Roadster

VIN 89351
Engine No. 89139 - Matching
Transmission No. 43351 - Matching
Porsche Kardex
Completed August 24, 1961

One of only 838 DIeteren Roadsters built for 1961, this 356B represents one of the most desirable open variants of the T5 generation, combining the elegance of the Speedster style and interior with improved refinement and usability. Imported by Hoffman Motors of New York, finished in its original color combination of Condor Yellow (6010) and a Black interior with matching engine and transmission, per Porsche Kardex.

The paintwork is in exceptional condition, with excellent gaps and panel fit. The exterior chrome is in excellent condition, including turn signal housings, Hella headlights with stone guards, Hella fog lights, reflectors, taillight lenses, and license plate lights. Both the front and rear decklids are matching, stamped 51 in the factory locations. The front trunk is fully detailed with a Lemmerz spare wheel (date-coded 2/61), a VDO fuel sending unit (date-coded 6/59), and an SWF windshield washer bag. The interior features an original VDM deep-dish steering wheel, VDO instrumentation, and a removable roll bar. Chrome 4.5 x 15 Lemmerz ventilated wheels with Super hubcaps mounted with Michelin XAS 165 HR15 tires (date coded 2021).

The documented ownership dates back to 1986, when the 356 was acquired by Mr. Chapman, who retained and enjoyed the Roadster for several decades before commissioning a comprehensive restoration. Between 2015 and 2019, The Automotive Archeologists, Ltd. performed a bare-metal restoration to return the 356 to its original color combination, spending over $130,000. During this process, the engine was rebuilt using AA Performance pistons and cylinders, a Neutek SC 200 camshaft, new rod and main bearings, oil lines, gaskets, and oil return tubes. The interior was upholstered in German materials and reassembled using OEM hardware. In September 2022, The Automotive Archeologists, Ltd. further serviced the 356 with a new clutch assembly, pressure plate, clutch disc, and throw-out bearing, along with repairs to the fuel sending unit and wiper motor. Most recently, at European Collectibles, we performed a full safety inspection, adjusted the wheel bearings, and the brakes.

Mechanically, powered by the matching 1600cc flat-four Super engine producing 75 horsepower, paired with its matching 4-speed manual transmission (Type 741). This 356 is offered with the Porsche Kardex build sheet, spare wheel, and restoration documentation. A compelling opportunity to acquire a numbers-matching DIeteren Roadster finished in its original color combination, representing one of the most collectible and sought-after variants of the 1960s Porsche 356s.