Est. 70 bhp, 1,582 cc air-cooled, horizontally-opposed, rear-mounted four-cylinder engine, four-speed manual gearbox in rear transaxle, four-wheel independent suspension, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 2,100 mm (82.7")
In developing the 356, Dr. Ferdinand Porsche laid the foundation of both the Porsche marque and its storied racing heritage. Evolution came swiftly and the first sales-driven new model was the Speedster, introduced at the insistence of Max Hoffman, the U.S. Porsche importer. Although the Speedster offered a relatively economical and more elemental Porsche experience, it also carried a decidedly avant-garde cachet that it retains today with performance-minded enthusiasts.
The improved T-2 variant appeared in 1958, marking the final Speedster prior to the Convertible D of 1959. It was upgraded with subtle changes including an enlarged rear window in the convertible top, a standard 1.6-litre engine, improved carburetion and ZF steering gear, distancing the car even further from its VW-based origins. Top speeds exceeded 160 km/h, with acceleration from rest to 100 km/h in the ten-second range, with superb handling.
Delivered on 27th January 1958, this 1958 Porsche 356A Speedster is one of just 556 examples produced for 1958. Prior to acquisition by the current owner in Holland, Robert H. Kraft of Virginia owned the Porsche. Upon purchase, the vendor commissioned a full, body-off restoration that was completed in Italy. The car has been used very sparingly since. Restoration work included a bare-metal refinish in the original Blue Aquamarine, complemented by a new white hood and a new interior highlighted by beautifully trimmed tan upholstery and an optional wood-rimmed steering wheel. A correct-type replacement engine has replaced the original unit, and the engine bay presents well, complete with correct components, finishes and decals in evidence throughout. Freshly restored and complete with a certificate from Porsche Italy, this late-production Speedster is an outstanding example and a performance icon of the 1950s.
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