Lifetime California car. Matching numbers, documented with Porsche Certificate of Authenticity. Extensive restoration with photo documentation, engine rebuilt by Autohaus of San Diego in 2014, receipts included. Wonderful 356 ready to drive.

The writing was on the wall in 1964—the 911 had just been introduced and the 356 was headed for retirement. Nevertheless, the 356C was the most popular of all the 356 models with 14,151 being built. Four-wheel disc brakes were now standard, the base engine was the 75 horsepower 1.6 liter, and styling retained the same timeless shape that has become an icon. Experts will note this particular 356C is titled as a 1963, when the C was introduced for the 1964 model year. Our only explanation is that it’s a very early production model that was likely imported in late 1963 and therefore titled by the date it arrived rather than the date it was sold or the manufacturer’s model year. It changes nothing about this wonderful Porsche, which was apparently always a beloved car living in California. We have decades of service records showing that whatever it needed, it received, including a full restoration in 1995. That restoration included a fresh coat of Ruby Red 6402 paint and a new black leatherette interior. It’s holding up beautifully more than two decades later, with a wonderful shine befitting a Porsche of this status and very few signs of use. That’s probably evidence of the care the car has received as much as the quality of the work. The doors close solidly and have even gaps, the front boot latches down without a slam, and the deck lid snaps into place with ease. Bent and rusty cars don’t fit together as well as this one does. California cars really are better.

The interior was replaced during that same refurbishment and it remains an easy place to spend some time. The seat covers, carpets, and door panels were all replaced with correct reproduction pieces and it even has a set of sisal floor mats, a popular accessory. The steering wheel is original and protected with a leather wrap, while the dash is full of handsome and simple VDO gauges that are all operational. Only the clock is offline. We believe the headliner is original and that should suggest just how nice this car was before the restoration started. Lap belts were added in the name of safety and the 356 is a remarkably practical small car thanks to the fold-down rear seats that’ll handle children in a pinch or a good deal of luggage for a road trip. There’s also the forward trunk, which features a full-sized spare and jack assembly.

The engine is a 1700cc flat-four, and the numers suggest that it’s the car’s original powerplant. It was fully rebuilt using a 912 crank and rods in 2014. Properly tuned, it starts easily and runs great, with an eagerness that is a big part of what makes these cars such a joy to drive. Not quite fast, but entertaining and that’s the whole point. You can drive this car at 9/10ths all day without endangering the townsfolk and it’s bulletproof reliable. There’s also a rebuilt fuel pump and carburetors, a new clutch, and correct details like the Bosch ignition system, 6-volt generator, and air filter housings. The original 4-speed manual transmission shifts cleanly and clutch action is light, making this 356 easy to master. The undercarriage shows plenty of evidence of its California heritage wit clean original floors, solid rockers, and no signs of rust or structural rot. Disc brakes were standard on the 356C, giving it stopping power in reserve, and the suspension is a great blend of capable and comfortable. Factory steel wheels carry 185/65/15 Michelin radials for a correct look and superior handling.

Extras include the original owner’s manual, Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, restoration receipts, photos, decades of maintenance records, service notebooks, and a chrome luggage rack.

It’s easy to understand why these cars remain perennially popular. For those who love driving, there are few machines that more directly connect man, machine, and road better than a 356, and while their capabilities are modest, they are completely accessible. Beginners as well as expert drivers will find rewards behind the wheel and the car never seems to run out of ways to entertain its driver. Either you already know or you’re about to find out why this car is special. Call today!

Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.