1960 Porsche 356 B Cabriolet

Chassis No. 154422
Engine No. 604923
Transmission No. 41741
The Porsche 356 B, new for the 1960 model year, featured the most significant changes of the automaker's original model to that point. Still powered by the venerable type 616, air-cooled flat-four engine, Porsche refined the exterior design following Ferdinand Porsche's mantra, “Change is easy. Improvement is far more difficult.” Porsche's initial 356 B body, the “T-5”, was produced from September 1959 to August 1961. This new T-5 body featured raised headlights and more substantial, raised bumpers with the rear bumper featuring integrated license plate lighting. The color palette for 1960 offered 11 colors, with six new shades. The mechanicals and interior remained largely the same with minor, incremental changes. Body styles for 1960 included a Coupe, Cabriolet, and Roadster with the Cabriolet being most expensive of the three body choices at just under $4,000.
According to the Certificate of Authenticity on file this 1960 356 B (T-5) Cabriolet was produced 12 August 1960. Originally delivered in Ivory with a black leatherette interior, this car has been restored in optional Signal Red (6011) with a tan leather interior and matching cabriolet soft top. Prior to entering The Fleischman Collection this 356 visited Dawn's Restoration Shop & Repair of Sacramento, California for a teardown and refresh of its correct type 616/1 engine. Records indicate while at Dawn's that the engine received a new SCAT crankshaft, rebuilt connecting rods with new rod bearings, new valve guides with rebuilt Solex carburetor replacements, and electrical work to the generator. Dawn's also performed a comprehensive brake service. Since joining The Fleischman Collection in 2004, this car has been well cared for with regular oil changes and valve adjustments. Most recently, in February 2020, the car visited Porsche South Bay, an Official Certified Classic Service Center. While at Porsche South Bay the car received a thorough inspection and service. Work included a valve adjustment with oil change, transmission fluid flush, and new brake fluid. Leaking fuel lines were replaced and a new fuel filter added. Finally, new Porsche N-spec vintage-look Pirelli CN36 tires were mounted to the Cabriolet's chrome steel wheels.
With a lovely restoration in period correct colors, this example of Porsche's original and timeless sports car has been an integral part of the Fleischman Collection for almost 20 years and represents the lineage reflected in the collection's 959, Carrera GT, and 911 GT3 RS 4.0. It is available with copies of restorative work along with repair and service work invoices since 2004 illustrating the regular attention given since purchase by the consignor.