Equipment & Specs
Left-hand drive, 4-speed manual transmission, final model of the T2 Coupe
Description
Let us introduce the Porsche 356 Coupe.
In 1948, the newly founded Porsche company launched the Porsche 356 from the town of Gmünd in northern Austria.
The Porsche 356 was born as a compact, lightweight, and efficient sports car utilizing Volkswagen components; despite its small engine displacement, it was the ideal compact sports car, combining excellent aerodynamics with good serviceability.
Subsequently, while undergoing various improvements, the car continued to be produced as a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive (RR) sports car with an air-cooled four-cylinder engine mounted at the rear, without altering the fundamental structure that was the source of its appeal.
Ultimately, it was produced through a long series of refinements until 1964, making it a historic model that served as the foundation for Porsche’s success. This vehicle is an early model known as the 356A, manufactured between 1956 and 1959.Furthermore, it is the final 1959 model of the Type A, which strongly retains the original early design.
The engine is, of course, a 1.6-liter air-cooled four-cylinder producing 60 horsepower via a Solex carburetor. Combined with a curb weight of just over 800 kilograms, its driving performance is quite good.Starting with this model year, the transmission was upgraded to the BorgWarner 519/2 type with synchronizers, which offers a significantly improved shift feel compared to the previous Volkswagen-made unit. The driving experience itself feels surprisingly powerful for just 60 horsepower, and even today, the car’s performance is more than sufficient for practical use, from city driving to highway speeds.
The interior features a combination of red leatherette and beige carpet. It is no exaggeration to say that
the unique atmosphere of the early 356 is condensed within this interior. With its slim steering wheel, the long shift lever that appears delicate, the simple instrument panel layout, and the spacious seats, it stands apart from later 356 models.
This particular vehicle was imported to Japan from North America in Showa 62 and has been cherished by its successive owners. It has since been repainted in its original ivory color and, as you can see, remains in excellent condition.
When you actually take it for a drive, you’ll find that amidst its classic charm, it retains that signature Porsche sharpness—making it a car you can still enjoy to the fullest today. It’s perfect for casual drives or events, so it would be a shame to let it sit in the garage as mere decoration. We
strongly encourage you to come see it in person.
